Tillsonburg water and wastewater rates remain unchanged for 2026

Oxford County says the average Tillsonburg household will pay the same combined water and wastewater bill in 2026 as in 2025 — $983 — because strong reserve balances offset a 1.8% rise in consumption charges.

Tillsonburg residents will not see an increase in combined water and wastewater rates for 2026, according to Oxford County budget discussions. Water bills include consumption charges plus amounts for infrastructure maintenance and replacement. Consumption charges across the county rise by 1.8 percent, tied to the Consumer Price Index. County officials said Tillsonburg's reserve balances and adherence to asset management targets mean no extra infrastructure charge is needed. Key facts: - An average Tillsonburg customer using 150 cubic metres of water per year will see the water charge move from $506 to $541 and the wastewater charge fall from $477 to $442, keeping the combined total at $983 for both 2025 and 2026. - Consumption charges will increase 1.8% for both water and wastewater across Oxford County, reflecting the Consumer Price Index. - Tillsonburg holds $6 million in water reserves and $12 million in wastewater reserves; officials said planned maintenance and replacement targets are being met so reserves are not being drawn down. - Other Oxford County areas will see different changes: Woodstock averages an 8.5% increase to $816, Ingersoll a 2.5% decrease to $1,169, Norwich a 1.5% increase to $1,186, and Drumbo a 5.8% increase to $1,744. - A wastewater treatment plant expansion for Tillsonburg appears in the 10-year capital plan and is set to be funded by development charges, and a study launching this year will examine water supply options beyond a planning horizon that currently extends to 2046. Summary: County officials say Tillsonburg's reserves and asset-management position allow its combined water and wastewater bill to remain steady for the average household between 2025 and 2026. Rates in other communities will change according to local needs and reserve positions. The town has planned capital work, including a wastewater expansion funded by development charges, and a study on long-term water supply will begin this year.