Fighting for Rural Fairness: Stormwater Fee Rebate Motion Defeated

Last week, I brought forward a motion to explore a 50% stormwater fee rebate for rural residential properties. The proposal was narrowly defeated in a 7–9 vote at the General Issues Committee.

⚠️ The Issue

Beginning in 2026, all Hamilton property owners will pay an annual stormwater fee of approximately $201. This includes nearly 9,500 rural properties - even though these homes are not connected to the city’s built stormwater infrastructure.

Rural residents already manage their own wells, septic systems, and property drainage. Most live on larger lots that naturally absorb rainwater. Unlike urban homes, they don’t receive city water or sewer services. For them, this new fee is a jump from $0 to $201, with no offsetting savings. Urban residents, by contrast, will see reductions in their water bills that help balance the new charge.

That disparity felt inequitable to me.

📝 What I Proposed

My motion didn’t ask Council to approve a rebate outright—it simply requested that staff study the feasibility of a 50% credit for rural residential properties.

Why 50%? I understand that many Councillors believe all residents should contribute to the broader system. But I believe contributions should reflect the services actually received. While full exemption may not be politically viable, a 50% rebate would acknowledge the unique circumstances of rural residents and offer a fair, proportional solution.

This is about equity, not just equality.

🗳️ The Vote

Seven Councillors supported studying the issue. Nine did not.

📺 Watch the full discussion: General Issues Committee – October 22, 2025

📣 Where I Stand

I represent all of Ward 11 - and that means standing up when city policies disproportionately affect rural communities. Losing this vote doesn’t end the conversation. It means the work continues.

Residents elected me to fight for fairness at City Hall. I’ll keep bringing motions, asking tough questions, and pushing for equitable treatment—even when the votes don’t go our way. That’s what responsible representation looks like.

If you have questions about how the stormwater fee affects your rural property, please reach out:

📧 ward11@hamilton.ca 📞 905-546-2110

Fairness means paying proportionally for the services you receive. Rural residents deserve that same fairness.