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Toronto City Council Approves Interim 2025 Rates for Waste and Water Services

TORONTOToronto residents will see a 3.75% increase in rates for Solid Waste Management Services (SWMS) and Toronto Water starting January 1, 2025. The decision, approved by City Council today, supports the continued delivery of essential waste and water services and funds infrastructure projects critical to maintaining these systems.

Breakdown of Waste Management Fee Adjustments

SWMS fees cover more than curbside garbage collection. They also fund unlimited yard waste and organics collection, electronics recycling, street and park bin maintenance, and more. With the increase, the annual cost for solid waste services in 2025 will be:

  • Small bin: $306.36 (up by $11.07)
  • Medium bin: $371.91 (up by $13.44)
  • Large bin: $505.12 (up by $18.26)
  • Extra-large bin: $585.89 (up by $21.18)

Water Rate Increases for 2025

Toronto Water, responsible for providing safe drinking water, wastewater treatment, and stormwater management, will also see a rate hike. For an average household using 230 cubic metres of water per year, the increase amounts to $39, bringing the annual total to $1,078.

Relief Programs Available

To support vulnerable residents, the City offers utility rebates for low-income seniors and individuals with disabilities. Details are available on the City’s Tax and Utility Relief website.

Upcoming Budget Process

The interim rates set the stage for the full 2025 Operating and Capital Budget, scheduled to launch on January 13, 2025. Residents will have opportunities to share their input during telephone town halls with Mayor Olivia Chow and Budget Committee Chair Shelley Carroll in January. Feedback sessions with the Budget Committee are planned for January 21 and 22, both in-person and via video conference.

Further details about the Budget process, including registration information, will be released in the new year.

For more information, visit the City’s official Budget and Tax and Utility Relief webpages.

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