Belleville Water Financial Plan 2025-2034

In 2010, the City became an accredited water operating authority and obtained Municipal Drinking Water Licenses for both the Belleville and Point Anne Hamlet drinking water systems. These licenses were newly mandated by the Province of Ontario under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) and its associated regulation, O. Reg. 453/07 – Financial Plans. Under this legislation, all municipal drinking water systems must be licensed and operated by an accredited authority. As part of the initial licensing process, municipalities are required to prepare and submit a Water Financial Plan that complies with the provisions of O. Reg. 453/07.

Municipal drinking water licenses are valid for five years, and the City is now required to apply for renewal by May 5, 2025. This renewal application must include an updated Water Financial Plan.

• Annual surpluses are forecasted across the entire planning period, with the accumulated surplus expected to grow by $61.8 million by 2034.
• Capital investments over the 10-year period are projected to total $128.2 million.
• While cash and net financial assets are expected to decline by 2034, they remain in a positive position, consistent with the financial strategy outlined in the 10-Year Capital Plan.
• The Water Reserve Fund currently exceeds its target under the City’s Reserve & Reserve Fund Policy, enabling temporary interfund borrowing to support wastewater infrastructure. This borrowing is expected to be repaid in full by 2033.
• Aside from $2.7 million in previously approved but unissued debt, no additional borrowing is planned for water services during the forecast period.

REC. NO. 170-2025

Moved by Councillor Kathryn Brown
Seconded by Councillor Barbara Enright-Miller

That Council approve the City of Belleville 2025-2034 Water and Wastewater Financial Plans, and authorize staff to submit the Water Financial Plan to the required provincial Ministries.

Carried

April 28, 2025