Written By David Gomez
SOUTHWEST MIDDLESEX - New development connecting to Southwest Middlesex water and wastewater systems will face a standardized fee structure beginning in 2027, following a decision by council at its August 19 meeting.
The municipality currently charges private connection fees generally ranging from $9500 to $10500, depending on the location and work involved. Treasurer and Manager of Finance Denice Williamson said staff recommended replacing that approach with fees based on the type of development.
“The intent [is] maintaining a generally comparable overall cost while we transition to a more consistent and transparent structure fee,” Williamson told council.
Under the new model, a single or semi-detached dwelling will carry a $10,000 connection fee, consisting of $7000 for water and $3000 for wastewater. Other multiple residential units will be charged $9200, while apartments with two or more bedrooms will pay $8700, and bachelor or one-bedroom apartments $5500. Non-residential properties would be based on a square foot area.
The fees will be collected at the building permit stage and indexed annually. Existing private water and wastewater installation fees for Glencoe and Wardsville will be removed from the municipality’s user fees and charges bylaw.
Councillor Martin Vink questioned the potential cost for commercial development, noting that a 10,000-square-foot building could face more than $60,000 in connection fees. Williamson said the calculation reflects anticipated servicing demands associated with larger commercial or industrial properties, while noting that eligible businesses may have access to incentives through the municipality’s Community Improvement Plan.
A transition is planned for residential developments with existing agreements. Eligible developments will receive a full exemption from the new fee in 2027 and a 50% exemption in 2028 before the full amount takes effect in 2029.
Council approved the new approach before turning to several Public Works items.
The municipality’s 2026 sidewalk replacement program finished at $146,719.37, leaving $3,280.63 of its $150,000 budget available for unforeseen sidewalk work through the remainder of the year.
Council also declared two Bush Hog mowers, an Epps Powerwasher and a 2013 Olympia ice resurfacer surplus. Sale proceeds will be directed to reserves for future capital equipment purchases.
Finally, council appointed Spriet Associates Engineers & Architects to work on a proposed Brammer Drain extension in the former Mosa Township. The request stems from concerns about surface water flowing onto agricultural property at Concession 1, Lot 18. No municipal financial impact is expected at this stage.
