HALIFAX — Landlords in Halifax are expressing strong discontent over a recently approved rate hike by Halifax's water utility, describing the proposed 17.6 percent increase as excessively high. This development comes in the wake of a regulatory decision made by the provincial authority, which aimed to temper the initial proposal of a staggering 35.6 percent increase from Halifax Water.
The Rental Housing Providers Nova Scotia, a collective representing landlords, has voiced concerns that the new water rate will heavily impact renters, who make up 40 percent of households across Nova Scotia. The group highlighted that the proposed increase is over six times greater than the current inflation rate, making it unsustainable for many residents, especially those on fixed incomes.
In order to alleviate the burden on renters, the Rental Housing Providers Nova Scotia is advocating for a more manageable approach to water rate increases. They are proposing a gradual escalation of five percent per year over the next five years. This method, they argue, would allow the utility to plan and adapt without imposing significant financial strain on households.
Furthermore, the group asserts that a long-term agreement on rate increases could streamline the regulatory approval process. This would afford Halifax Water ample time to enhance its governance and management practices, potentially leading to improved service delivery and infrastructure management for the community.
In addition to water rate increases, the landlords are also concerned about the broader economic context that includes rising power rates and property taxes. Both factors are anticipated to contribute further to the financial pressures faced by renters in Halifax and beyond, compounding the challenge of housing affordability in the region.
This situation underscores the complexities involved in managing public utilities and the ripple effects of rate changes on the community. As Halifax grapples with these issues, it remains to be seen how the proposed water rate changes will be implemented and what further actions might be taken to ensure that all residents can afford essential services.
