Utility rates are going up in two Hanover communities. 

The Public Utilities Board has approved a rate increase for both Mitchell and Blumenort. The rate adjustments are the result of a study completed in 2021. According to Hanover Administration, residents in both communities were notified last year of the potential changes.

In Mitchell, for a single family dwelling unit, residents are currently paying $74.35 per year. That will rise to $80.67 in 2022, to $88.05 in 2023 and then to $95.59 in 2024. Then in 2025, the rate will jump to $165.07. However, according to Hanover Administration, this is because Mitchell's utility debt matures in 2024. Owners will notice a reduction in taxes as Hanover will not be levying for the debenture payments in 2025. The exact amount of the reduction is quite variable as it is based on assessment.

In Blumenort, for a single family dwelling unit, residents are currently paying $200 per year. That will rise to $212.15 in 2022, to $224.30 in 2023 and then to $236.45 in 2024.

According to Hanover Administration, Mitchell has had the same utility rate since 2012. It was reviewed in 2016/17 but the rate was determined to be adequate at that time. As for Blumenort, new rates were introduced in 2016/17.

Hanover Reeve Stan Toews says these rates have now been given final reading by Council. He notes Hanover does not make any money off these utilities, but simply charges residents what it costs to run these operations.