Saanich Council Approves Major Utility Rate Increases for 2026

Saanich has approved significant increases to water and sewer flat rates, effective January 1, 2026. During a special council meeting on December 8, 2024, council members voted to raise these rates, which had already been increased in October 2024. The adjustments mark a steep rise for residents, particularly those with a typical 19mm water connection.

In 2024, the annual flat rate for a typical household was set at $76. Following changes in 2025, this rate surged to $255, representing a staggering increase of 236%. The most recent decision pushes the flat rate even higher to $417 for 2026, marking another 63% jump from the previous year and an overall increase of 449% compared to 2024 rates.

At the core of these changes is the Saanich council’s strategy to shift towards a revenue model that relies on a 50/50 split between consumption and flat rates. This model aims to address funding for essential services while minimizing reliance on property tax increases. During discussions in 2024, Harley Machielse, Director of Engineering, suggested that this revenue model change would have a net-zero impact on taxpayers.

Despite these assurances, residents are expressing concern over the escalating costs. One local resident, Roel Hurkens, shared his experience, noting that his total utility bill rose from approximately $770 in 2024 to $960 in 2025, with expectations of surpassing $1,120 in 2026. This increase does not factor in potential additional hikes in consumption rates or garbage collection fees.

Critics argue that the council’s approach to increasing utility bills is an indirect method of generating revenue without the political repercussions of raising property taxes. This perception is fueling frustration among residents who feel the burden of these increases is not aligned with the promised net-zero impact.

As Saanich navigates these significant utility rate changes, residents are left wondering how these financial adjustments will affect their household budgets in the coming years. The council’s strategy may generate necessary funds, but it also raises questions about the long-term financial sustainability for the community.