Water and sewer rates in Atikokan are expected to increase this year by 3.3%.

Town council is giving its support to a recommendation from its administration.

The increase amounts to bills being $35 higher.

Atikokan charges a flat rate for water use by its 1417 customers.

Currently, the residential rate for water and wastewater is $1,065.00, making it one of the lowest costs in northwestern Ontario.

The increase will give the municipality an extra $55,866 in revenue for future sewer and water improvements.

Final approval of the rate increase is expected at council’s next meeting.