Toronto 
The City of Toronto has proposed an interim three percent increase in rates and fees for Solid Waste Management Services and Toronto Water, effective from January 1, 2024.
This temporary measure, pending approval by the City Council, precedes the final decision on the 2024 rate-supported operating and capital budgets set for February 2024.
The proposed increase aims to maintain service levels and allocate adequate funds for future capital needs, while mitigating the need for a larger hike later.
For Solid Waste Management Services, this translates to an increased annual fee for single-family households based on garbage bin sizes: $295.29 for a small bin, reflecting an $8.60 increase; $358.47 for a medium bin, up by $10.44; $486.86 for a large bin, marking a $14.18 rise; and $564.71 for an extra-large bin, which is an increase of $16.45.
These fees cover various waste management services, including collecting and processing different waste types, city-wide litter collection, and maintaining closed landfills.
For Toronto Water, the average household will see an additional $30 annual cost (approximately eight cents per day), bringing the total to $1,039 in 2024. This increment supports the provision of safe drinking water, wastewater collection and treatment, and stormwater management. It also facilitates the construction and revitalization of infrastructure to address growth, aging systems, and climate change effects.
Per the news release, the interim rates and fees will be reviewed by the Executive Committee on December 5 and then by the City Council from December 13 to 15. If approved, these rates will be effective from January 1, 2024, with final rates to be determined during the 2024 Budget process starting January 10, 2024.
“The suggested interim rate and user fees fee maintain affordability for Toronto residents and businesses while maintaining these essential services, ” said Mayor Olivia Chow in a news release.
Residents and businesses are encouraged to provide feedback by participating in the Executive Committee meeting or through written comments. Additionally, a city-wide consultation on the City’s 2024 Budget is ongoing until November 30, offering another platform for public input.
