Protecting Kingston’s Leadership in Clean Water and Public Accountability

Subject: Preserving Kingston’s Proven Model for Utilities and Environmental Stewardship

For decades, Kingston has been a leader in protecting Lake Ontario and ensuring safe, clean water for its residents—a vision that aligns with Swim Drink Fish’s mission of swimmable, drinkable, fishable water for all. Utilities Kingston has operated as a unique, independent, multi-service utility, managing both gas and water with a level of local control most cities envy. This independence has delivered real benefits for residents and the environment.

A Track Record of Innovation and Public Trust

Kingston’s integrated approach has produced results that matter. When the city faced decades of sewage pollution, Utilities Kingston leveraged its expertise to pioneer solutions. From 2002 to 2017, Kingston invested in wastewater treatment upgrades and introduced Ontario’s first real-time public alert system for sewage overflows—modeled on gas leak monitoring technology. This transparency built public trust and accountability, enabling bold investments in waterfront revitalization, including Gord Edgar Downie Pier and Richardson Beach.

These achievements didn’t happen by accident. They were the product of local leadership, technical expertise, and a commitment to public interest. Kingston’s model has proven that municipal utilities can innovate and deliver environmental progress that benefits everyone.

Why Change What Works?

The proposed shift to a Municipal Services Corporation (MSC) raises important questions. What efficiencies justify replacing a system that has served Kingston so well? How will public accountability and environmental stewardship be maintained under a structure designed to operate “more like a business”?

Experience elsewhere suggests that MSCs often reduce transparency—limiting public hearings, freedom of information access, and political oversight—while removing the obligations of private ownership such as paying taxes or earning profits. This hybrid approach risks prioritizing the bottom line over the public good.

A Call for Careful Consideration

We urge the City to take a deeper look at how Kingston’s proven model can be strengthened rather than replaced. Efficiency and modernization are worthy goals, but they should not come at the expense of public trust or environmental leadership.

Residents have until January 9 to share their views. Please visit the City’s online survey and ask for:

• A clear explanation of the rationale for change

• A commitment to transparency and public accountability

• An exploration of options to enhance Utilities Kingston’s success instead of dismantling it

Kingston’s utilities are part of Kingston’s identity. Let’s build on decades of progress and keep Kingston’s leadership in clean water and public trust intact.

Together, we can ensure Kingston remains a model for Ontario and beyond.