Residents of a neighborhood in Breslau, Ont., were stunned to receive a letter recently, informing them that they are required to pay nearly $14,000 per household for water and sewer upgrades conducted on their street ten years ago. The letter, dated Oct. 27, was sent to twenty-five properties located on Scheifele Place, Woolwich Street South, Dolman Street, and Joseph Street by Woolwich Township. Each household is being asked to contribute $13,950.19, totaling $348,754.75 for the overall project.
Kayla Jager, a resident on Woolwich Street since 2018, expressed her shock at the significant amount, stating that she finds it unjust and is unsure of how to proceed since legal assistance is financially challenging for her. Jager and her neighbors were taken aback as they had not been informed about any potential charges by the township prior to receiving the letter.
The letter, obtained by CBC News, explains that the township council passed a bylaw on Oct. 7 to shift the project costs to property owners who benefit or will benefit from the municipal servicing works. Residents have until Dec. 12 to settle the bill or can opt to include it in their tax payments, paying $1,286.25 annually over the next two decades.
Amid concerns from residents, Michael Lamb, a real estate lawyer and professor, advised homeowners to verify if they have title insurance, which safeguards against property ownership issues. Lamb recommended investigating the process and the validity of the township’s actions under the municipal act.
Jared Puppe, the director of infrastructure services, acknowledged shortcomings in communication with residents regarding the charges. Puppe highlighted that a majority of residents had supported the water and sewer extensions in a 2014 vote, but delays due to litigation with the construction company led to the current billing situation.
Residents have been granted an extension until May 2026 to settle the bill in full. Puppe emphasized the township’s willingness to assist residents in exploring payment options, particularly those facing financial difficulties. Moving forward, the township aims to improve communication with affected residents to prevent similar situations and ensure transparency in any levy bylaw delays.
