The City of Longueuil on Montreal’s South Shore says it plans to gradually implement a new drinking water rate structure for certain industrial and commercial buildings “to better reflect their actual usage.” “Drinking water is an essential resource that we must collectively protect for future generations,” said Longueuil Mayor Catherine Fournier. “With this new pricing structure, we are once again making a clear choice to encourage more responsible use of this limited resource, while asking those who consume the most to contribute more.” The move follows in the footsteps of other major cities, including Montreal, Laval and Gatineau. Longueuil city officials state the new structure “will be based on the principle of fairness,” and will only apply to industrial and commercial property owners who exceed volumes pre-allotted to their address. They note that the new fee structure does not apply to residential properties. “This is an approach that is both fair and responsible. As we know, our water infrastructure is in need of maintenance and requires significant investment to be upgraded, repaired and renewed,” said Fournier. “This new rate structure will provide us with additional resources to address these needs and ensure the long-term sustainability of our infrastructure.” A bylaw establishing the new rate structure is expected to be submitted for adoption in December as part of the City of Longueuil’s 2027 budget. “Affected property owners will soon receive a letter outlining the process and the status of their property,” city officials explain. “To help affected property owners understand their consumption and adjust their practices, the city has provided for a transition period before the rates take full effect.” The rollout is set to be completed by the spring of 2029. Anyone looking for information on the new rates can click here.
