Changes to water and sewer, as well as bus regulations coming at the new Corner Brook council meeting

At this week’s public meeting, Councillor Donna Wheeler spoke about amendments that include a quarterly payment option which will reduce the financial burden of upfront payments for servicing-related costs.

Corner Brook city hall has made some changes to the rules for water and sewer that will make it easier to build new homes. At this week’s public meeting, Councillor Donna Wheeler spoke about amendments that include a quarterly payment option which will reduce the financial burden of upfront payments for servicing-related costs. Developments with servicing costs under $30,000 may apply to have these costs divided into four equal, interest-free quarterly payments. As well, to expedite invoicing and reduce cost uncertainty for developers, residential developments with fewer than six units will receive an upfront invoice for roadway reinstatement work. Previously, an estimate was provided initially, with actual costs determined and billed several months later. 

Water and sewer-related costs will still follow the estimate-then-actual-cost approach; however, it will happen quicker, meaning less delays and uncertainty for builders.

Meanwhile, the city is also looking at changes to Bus regulations in light of the new On-Demand Transit system. Wheeler spoke about the amendments needed to ensure the existing by-law aligns with current operational practices. Key changes include revising the definition of “Bus” to encompass the accessible transit van, introducing a definition for “On-Demand Public Transit,” and updating Section 8 to reflect the operational requirements of both the fixed-route transit service and the OnDemand Transit system. 

Motions for amendments to Water and Sewage, as well as, Bus regulations will be brought forward at the next public council meeting on July 20th.