We do not have control over many of the factors that have contributed to the rates increase, however, we do have control and options on how we manage the impact.

All options presented have no impact on levels of service.

We are presenting three options with Option 1 being to accept the challenges up front, meaning a larger initial rates increase in the first year of the Long-Term Plan

2025-2034 but the lowest overall cost to ratepayers. Options 2 and 3 propose to “smooth” the impact over two years and five years respectively using borrowings (loans) to ensure we continue to provide the essential services. Options 2 and 3 result in interest costs and will cost more for ratepayers in the long run.

Each of these options propose a different approach to balancing affordability with overall costs and we would appreciate your careful consideration in managing how this balance is struck.

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