According to the latest data, Canada is ready to introduce the so-called “rain tax” starting next month. The move aims to address the problem of stormwater management in the Canadian city Toronto.
According to the City of Toronto's official website, the City is considering introducing this "rain tax" which is scheduled to be introduced in April.
The City of Toronto's official website states that the Government is working with water users and stakeholders actively participates in the program “Consultations on Stormwater Harvesting and Payment for Water Supply Services.” The initiative was reportedly designed to address stormwater management issues, commonly referred to as the “rain tax.” The authority is actively seeking feedback from water users and stakeholders regarding the potential introduction of stormwater fees and water service fees, inviting participation in a survey by April 30.
What does stormwater mean?
Storm water, as defined by the official government website, is rain and melted snow. When stormwater does not soak into the ground, it runs off hard surfaces such as streets, roofs and driveways, and eventually enters local waterways through storm drains and pipes.
According to reports, officials plan to introduce a “stormwater fee” that applies to all classes of property. It will also create a program to provide stormwater credits for larger properties, coupled with administrative charges for water known as "water service charges."
The website highlights the adverse effects of excessive amounts of stormwater, which can overload the city's sewer system, resulting in flooded basements and deterioration in the quality of surface water in rivers, streams and lakes.
Collection Proposal stormwater project aims to increase existing water bills borne by Toronto residents. The fee is said to be based on a property's impact on stormwater runoff to the city sewer system, determined by the area of hard surfaces such as roofs, driveways and parking spaces. Properties will be assessed based on their contribution to stormwater, thereby delineating their responsibilities in addressing this environmental issue.
Source: timesofindia
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