The City of Abbotsford is changing how it collects solid waste fees, with the charges set to be added to water and sewer bills beginning January 1, 2027.

Currently, residents pay solid waste fees once a year through their property tax notices. Under the new system, the charges will be included in regular utility bills, allowing residents to spread the cost throughout the year instead of making a single annual payment.

Customers who pay their bills on or before the due date will also be eligible for discounted rates, following a system similar to the one currently used for water consumption charges.

For residents receiving utility bills every two months, the solid waste fee will first appear on the bill issued at the end of March 2027. In the Clearbrook area, where billing takes place quarterly, the change will take effect with the first bill issued at the end of April 2027.

The transition will happen automatically, meaning residents will not need to take any action to switch to the new billing system.

According to the city, the revised approach will make it easier for residents to monitor their charges and manage payments throughout the year. It will also provide greater flexibility when residents move or temporarily suspend their solid waste collection service, allowing fees to be adjusted or discontinued accordingly.
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