Council inquired about how costs were attributed in the proposal. Staff noted that it is the same operators who are doing the same work, and assumption has been made in the proposal about the ratio of time spent on each. Staff noted that the water systems are more complex than our current sewer systems and are expected to take up more of the operators time.
Council inquired whether this meant that the cost of wastewater may be shifted to ratepayers who do not use that system. Staff to ensure that the burden for sewer is not being allocated to those who do not have sewers. Staff will keep track of and audit actual costs and re-evaluate the water/wastewater fees after the first year to realign them to actual costs in the 2026 rates and fees.
Council inquired about reasoning behind a switch when the costs are not significantly different between the two proposals. Staff would like to make changes to how asset management is conducted, and the current supplier would not commit to a plan to prolong the life of water and wastewater assets. Staff also noted that there has been turnover in staff with the current provider, so the historic knowledge has not necessarily been retained.
Staff noted that they have heard positive feedback about Ontario Clean Water Agency (OCWA).
Council discussed the expected challenges with the transition between the two providers. This will primarily be the responsibility of the new Manager of Environmental Services.