Local residents will be paying more for their water this summer. How much more will depend on usage. The city took a step toward seasonal water rates on Monday, agreeing to bring the concept to the public. A consultation meeting will be held March 9 from 6-8 p.m. in the Matsqui Centennial Auditorium foyer.According to a staff proposal, from November to April (off peak) residential water rates will be $1.08 per cubic metre (1,000 litres), up from the current rate of $1.02.During peak usages (May to October) the cost remains at $1.08, up to the first 60 cubic metres used. But costs increase after that. From 61 to 90 cubic metres, the charge becomes $2.16 and at 91 and over, it rises to $4.32, per cubic metre.Water usage is tabulated on a two-month basis to coincide with the new bi-monthly billing formula. According to city figures, the average home uses 36 cubic metres in January-February, 48 in March-April, 60 in May-June, 80 in July-August, 61 in September-October and 42 in November-December.The seasonal rate is an alternative to a suggested flat increase to $1.15 per cubic metre. An fee hike is needed to compensate for last year’s water fund deficit of $1.5 million.“Ironically, we did such a good job conserving water last year, that we didn’t make our (sales) projections,” said Abbotsford Mayor George Peary.While most councillors agreed to gauge the public’s response, Coun. John Smith was vocally opposed to seasonal rates, calling them unfair to recreational gardeners, or people who grow their own vegetables.“What we’re saying is if you have a beautiful yard, we’re going to penalize you.”Dry yards were a major issue last summer, as the city’s watering ban caused lawns to wilt in the heat.“Brown is not beautiful, I don’t care what you say. Gardens add to a feeling of community pride,” said Smith.Coun. Dave Loewen said it isn’t about punishing gardeners, rather conserving a resource.“There are still many people who are irresponsible about watering ... Those who use a lot of water, and want to use it, will have to pay for it,” he said.According to figures provided by the city, adopting the seasonal rate system will be slightly cheaper for most residents, than the alternative, a uniform rate of $1.15 per cubic metre.A single person living in a condo uses an average of 102 cubic metres a year. That would cost $117.30 (uniform rate) or $110.16 (seasonal rate). A couple living in a condo uses an average of 204 cubic metres, costing $234.60 (uniform) and $220.32 (seasonal).An average single family residence uses 327 cubic metres a year, costing $376.05 (uniform) or $375.84 (seasonal).A single family residence using 1.5 times the average home (492 cubic-metres of water) a year, would be charged $565.80 at the uniform rate, or $743.04 under the seasonal system. Staff also suggest lifting the summer watering ban in 2011 and returning to the twice-weekly watering system.