Quarterly Newsletter – January 2026
Four times a year the City of Castlegar publishes a newsletter that is distributed to all homes with our quarterly utility bills. Here’s what to know in Castlegar this quarter.
2026 Utility Rate Changes
To keep water and sewer systems running smoothly and plan for future upgrades, the City is updating utility rates. Changes are guided by the Municipal Price Index (MPI), which measures inflation specific to municipal costs like construction and labour. Using the MPI helps the City plan responsibly, cover current costs, and prepare for future infrastructure needs.
- Residential Water Rates will increase from $36.95 to $37.91 per month. The rate for water consumption over 30 cubic meters will increase from $0.84 to $0.86 per cubic meter.
- Residential Sewer Rates will increase from $32.00 to $36.81 per month. The consumption rate for sewer will increase from $0.51 to $0.59 per cubic meter.
- Curbside Collection will increase from $25.88 to $26.77 per month.
These rates are effective January 1, 2026, and will appear on your next bill.
There has been an increase in sewer system blockages. Non-flushable items can clog or damage sewer pumps & pipes, resulting in costly repairs, backups and service disruptions.
Only poop, pee, toilet paper and water go down the drain and toilet!
Do not put these items down drains or toilets
- Disposable or “flushable” wipes
- Paper towels
- Hygiene products
- Hair and nail clippings
- Condoms
- Floss
- Grease (fats from meat)
- Cooking oils, salad dressing, mayonnaise
- Fats and dairy (yogurt, butter, shortening, gravy)
- Motor oil, paint, hazardous items
- Clothing
- Pharmaceuticals and medications
Explore the City’s 2025 accomplishments
Council focused on making progress on the issues that residents talk to us about most. We worked to strengthen the City’s internal operations and service delivery through the development of the City’s first Organizational Plan, while also moving forward on projects that shape daily life in Castlegar. Read it online.
Winter Wonderland, Oh What Fun!
The 3rd annual Winter Wonderland took place on Saturday, December 6, welcoming over 2,500 people to Spirit Square for a festive start to the holiday season. A big thank-you to our partners — Trowelex, the Castlegar Rotary Club, Castlegar Sunrise Rotary Club, and Rotary Interact. We extend our deep appreciation to Harold and the staff at Trowelex for their continued support of our local events. The equipment, tents, inflatables, and more that they provide each year play a significant role in bringing Winter Wonderland to life. Thank you to our Civic Works crew, Council and City Hall staff for preparing Spirit Square for the holidays and supporting setup, coordination, and on-site volunteering. Thank you to the Castlegar Fire Department for being on site, RCMP, Habitat for Humanity, Kootenay Charters, Kootenay Centre Cinemas and to Santa and Mrs. Claus for making the day extra special for kids. We’re grateful to the many local businesses, organizations, and community groups whose support helps bring Winter Wonderland to life — from activities and equipment to transportation and movie screenings. Winter Wonderland is a true community effort. To everyone who sponsored, volunteered, or joined us — thank you for making it a December to Remember.
Corporate Services