Saskatoon rate and fee increases set for 2019

Saskatoon residents will be ringing in 2019 next week, but with the new year come a number of fee increases around the city.

The City of Saskatoon has released its list of fee and rate jumps that kick in Jan. 1, including small increases to several user fees and a big jump in some service rates.

Water and wastewater rates are set to increase by 9.25 per cent again this year, in part to help pay for the city’s work on replacing old lead pipes in several neighbourhoods.

Recycling fees are also ticking up by $0.14 per month per household.

Saskatoon’s monthly leisure cards are also going up in price by $5 for adults, $3 for youths and $10 for families, while city golf course 18-hole fees will climb by between $1.50 and $3.50. City golf courses are also offering slightly lower rates for non-prime golf tee times in 2019, and less expensive five-day week and season passes.

The new golf fees kick in April 1.

Renting a sports field for evening activities that require lights will be significantly more expensive in 2019, rising from $62 to $92 for two hours.

Pet licencing fees are increasing for both dogs and cats in 2019. Spayed or neutered cats will cost an extra $1.50, while non-spayed/neutered will be an extra $3. Licences for spayed, neutered or juvenile dogs are going up by $1, while non-spayed/neutered canines will cost an extra $2.

In addition to the rate increases, the city is also planning to start offering more purchasing options for leisure activities in Saskatoon.

The Forestry Farm Park and Zoo will begin selling season passes valid between April 1 and Oct. 31. Adult passes will cost $40, youth or child passes will cost $24, families will be charged $80 and preschoolers will be free.