Cavendish area could see a hike in sewer rates

Home and business owners in the Cavendish area of P.E.I. could soon see a jump in their sewer rates.

The Cavendishsewer utility has applied to the Island Regulatory and Appeals Commission for an increase of about 24 percent.

Matthew Jelley, chair of the Resort Municipality, said it needs a rate increase to deal with rising operational and maintenance costs.

"We work very hard to keep the rates manageable," said Jelley. "But the last couple of years the utility has run a deficit and to ensure its continued sustainability, it is important that we take action now."

Jelley said the increase would amount to about $100 more a year for the average homeowner. The municipality has a population of about 280 people, but that number balloons in summer with an influxof tourists.

People have until Dec.11to voiceconcerns or make comments toIRAC.

If approved, the increase would come intoeffectnext year.