What does the Bowser Waterworks District do? The Bowser Waterworks District (BWD) has only one mandate and that is the provision of potable water. Water is distributed by water main from four source wells to the properties of the District. It is tested weekly at various points on the system to ensure it remains safe.
How often are the Water Tolls invoiced? Water Tolls are invoiced quarterly following the end of the billing period (January – March, April – June, July – September, October – December). Meters are read on the first working day after the end of the period and used to calculate the consumption. The funds collected cover the annual operating costs of the District.
What is Parcel Tax, and how is it used? Parcel Tax is an annual bill. The funds collected are used for the replacement or improvement of waterworks infrastructure – not for system expansion.
When a new subdivision is proposed, what are the cost implications for current water system users? Expansions and subdivision have been ongoing since the BWD was incorporated, and the approval process is designed so that new development pays the full cost of required infrastructure. If new pipe is required – it must be installed, and paid for, by the developer. Subdivision applications are always reviewed by our consulting engineers. The engineers make sure that proper materials and practices are being used. They also advise on the affects any additions will have on the rest of the system (pressures and volumes). Any system deficiencies identified must be rectified by the developer before they are allowed to proceed.
Do we have enough water? Our aquifer remains healthy. If a new subdivision exceeds the capacity of our source (wells), the subdivision is required to bring more supply to our system (approved by BWD) to meet the requirements.
How does system expansion impact the Bowser Waterworks District in the future? It is not unusual for BWD to benefit from subdivision expansion. For example, new valves help us isolate portions of the system and new system loops have significant benefit for water distribution. The new infrastructure is considered neutral (we have to replace it in 80 years but we collect parcel tax from the new properties to pay for it). The more customers we can service per metre of pipe (our most costly asset), the more cost effective we can be.
What is a Capital Expenditure Charge (CEC)? When a new lot is added to the District, it is required by Bylaw to pay a CEC to the District. These funds are used to ensure that specific long-term expansion projects can be funded. Current Bylaws are available on this website under the Bylaws Links and News section.