Water

Kamloops residents are high water users and we are reaching capacity for Peak Day Water Demands on our water system. It is commonly known that universal water metering is one of the most effective tools to reduce peak demand.

Metered customers pay only for the water they use. Water meters give customers the opportunity to be aware of the water they use and allows them to take steps toward better water management and conservation.

Table 1. Comparative Water Use in Southern Interior BC Communities

The project will take 3 years to implement, starting in late 2010 with the installation of the first meters.

• First Year: South East including Downtown, Barnhartvale, Dallas, Juniper and Valleyview



• Second Year: South West including Aberdeen, Sahali, Dufferin and Pineview Valley



• Third Year: North Shore including Westsyde, Brocklehurst and Batchelor

The water meters will be installed by a qualified contractor. All work will be guaranteed.

No, the City of Kamloops will pay for the water meter, installation and future maintenance of the meter.

Most water meters will be installed inside your house near your main water shut-off. The meter is approximately 150 mm high by 150 mm wide by 225 mm long (6" high by 6" wide by 9" long) or roughly the size of a loaf of bread.

If your meter was installed before October 2008, your meter will need to be upgraded to the new wireless technology water meter.

Multi-family and bare land strata developments are currently on meters and not subject to this program.

Current restrictions will remain in place.

Meters are read using a wireless technology device as the City vehicle passes by. Staff will simply need to drive by your house to access your water meter data.

The simplest way is to read your meter regularly. The City will post more information on how to read your meter once we have selected a supplier.

Estimates indicate that 60% of residential customers will pay the same or less under the new water rate structure. Meters will result in lower water utility costs over the long term than could be achieved without meters.

Current non-metered water rates charge a base rate, a single family dwelling rate and an irrigation rate based on your lot size. Metered rates will charge a fixed capital charge, a fixed consumption charge and a variable consumption charge.

Table 2. Rate Structure Comparison

Table 3. Variable Consumption Charges

The new rates apply on January or July 1st of the year after water meters have been installed in your area. If you already have a water meter, your billing structure will also change after water meters have been installed in homes in your area.

The new billing cycle will be quarterly and will apply to all customers.