RHPNS Opening Statement at NSRAB Hearing
Rental Housing Providers Nova Scotia (RHPNS) told the Nova Scotia Regulatory and Appeals Board that Halifax Water’s proposed 36.6% rate hike will directly fuel rent increases, water poverty, and service disconnections.
RHPNS stressed three main concerns:
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Rate Shock: Halifax Water’s own evidence shows the increase is 36.6%, not 34%.
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Settlement Rejection: Halifax Water refused a good-faith settlement proposal that would have avoided rate shock.
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Affordability Risks: Higher bills will push more households into arrears and hardship, while inflating rents.
RHPNS urged regulators to prioritize affordability and fairness, reject the Automatic Landlord Program, and address concerns overlooked by the Consumer Advocate.