The Program was created to help the City better understand how water is used in the community. It will give us the information we need to introduce an equitable billing structure and allow us to strategically plan for a future that is financially and environmentally sustainable.

Water meters have now been installed, and bleeders have been assessed and adjusted as needed. The program includes an ongoing review period to monitor system performance and prepare for the transition to metered billing/

The City wants to encourage smart water use not decreased business. We will use information gained about water consumption patterns for businesses during the water meter trial to ensure that businesses that depend on water use for their operations are supported when new water rate structures are established.

By analyzing their own water usage during the trial period, businesses can make plans to adapt as necessary and take advantage of the funding resources available to upgrade water fixtures.

A qualified contractor installed all water meters and reconfigured or upgraded bleeders as needed to ensure they’re operating correctly. At the time of installation, residents and business owners were provided with information on how to operate their bleeders correctly. Water customers are not responsible for any meter maintenance. The city continues to monitor system performance and address any outstanding issues.

There is a lot of speculation about whether residential buildings are subsidizing water use for businesses or if it’s the other way around. Without water meters, it’s very hard to know if water customers are paying a fair amount for their usage.

After the water meter trial, water rate structures will be based on actual water use in the community. In that way, the water bills will be much easier to understand. The result will be a fairer and more equitable billing system than the current fixed rate.

New water rates will not be established until after the water meter trial and will be based on each customer’s actual water usage. Average water users should expect to pay rates similar to those they’re paying now.

Support for vulnerable water customers will be made available – similar to the 20% rebate that seniors currently have.

No. Although bleeders are installed so that the water meter is capturing water use from the bleeder, appropriate bleeder use will be discounted from water bills.

Residents will be reminded when to turn bleeders on and off to ensure that unnecessary bleeder use does not occur during the summer months.

The City will review water consumption, monitor bleeder usage and identify leaks in water distribution system.

No. Mock bills are for information purposes only and will not result in charges. They are intended to show what your future water bill may look like once metered billing is introduced.

Customers will begin receiving mock bills in 2026, with the first anticipated in September and reflecting water use for the July to September period. This will help you better understand your water use and how future billing may be calculated.

Metered billing will be implemented following updates to the water and sewer services bylaw.

If you believe you water meter is not working properly or if you have concerns about your installation, please contact the City of Dawson. The City is currently reviewing and resolving any outstanding issues to ensure all meters are operating as expected.