In the final meeting of this term, Hanover council established the rates, fee, and charges increases for next year.
Council received a report from staff with the proposed changes, saying that increases were needed to recover the cost of providing municipal services and programs.
Director of Corporate Services Yelena Savic said the most notable change for residents was a 5.7 per cent increase to water and wastewater rates.
"I think for water and sewer combined, an estimate based on average consumption over the last three years... I would say about $70 combined for the year would be the increase we're looking at for both the flat fee and the metered fee," she told council.
Savic said major projects including proposed upgrades to the town's wastewater facilities mean they'll likely need greater increases down the line.
"The degree to which the rates cover capital and operating is monitored, but we're not projected to close that gap at 5.7 per cent," she said. "I think it's a start for this year, I don't think its the number we will be relying on for the next decade.
The fee increases were passed by council, the final by-law adopted under Mayor Sue Paterson, who served in the role since 2014.
"My public service journey from community involvement and volunteer leadership, to 11 years on council and 12 years as Mayor has been both rewarding and meaningful," she said in her final remarks. "I am proud of what we have accomplished together and grateful for the opportunity to have played a part in Hanover's growth and continued success. It has been an honour and a privelege to serve you."
Council members will have an orientation next week, with the inaugural meeting of council coming on November 16.
