Input sought as Pouce Coupe faces water rate increase

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. – A water service rate increase of more than 10 per cent is being considered in the Village of Pouce Coupe next month. 

During the January 22nd regular council meeting, the Village of Pouce Coupe council approved a draft notice which seeks to educate residents about an upcoming 10.76 per cent increase to operational costs for individuals. 

The increase comes under the village’s third-party Water Supply Agreement with Dawson Creek. 

No changes had been approved by council at this time, but rather the changes are being considered due to the village’s dependence on Dawson Creek for water service. 

On March 5th, residents are encouraged to attend a free public consultation meeting starting at 7 p.m. at the Pouce Coupe Community Centre to contribute their opinions to “the community’s financial future”. 

The consultation will detail the options available to the community with regards to the service rate increase, which include increasing both tax and service rates and increasing only one or the other. 

The last option offered by the village is staying with the current rates, which could impact service delivery quality.

A presentation on the outcomes and consequences of all options will be available for attendees, and a public hearing will also be held on April 2nd at a to be determined time.