Under a new system set to begin May 1, water costs for the average home will rise about 12 per cent.

But just how the city plans to raise rates will depend on what the public has to say.

At a meeting on Monday, Robert Charpentier, finance director for the city, laid out a new water billing system.

Under the new system, which is aimed at distributing costs more fairly and encouraging conservation, an average residence consuming 4,000 gallons of water every two months will see a 12 per cent increase in their water bill. Apartment owners on the other hand may see a decrease in their overall water bill.

Water bills are currently split into five rates with residents charged $11.92 per thousand gallons they use, plus a charge based on how many toilets are in the house.

City officials are quick to point out the new plan is designed to be revenue neutral. The city doesn't make money on this, they are simply trying to re-jig the billing system.

Some councillors suggested the different options for water payments should be presented to the public.

"We should go to the public and outline what we are trying to achieve," Coun. Kevin O'Reilly said.

Coun. Wendy Bisaro agreed. "We should consult the public before we go to council and do this," Bisaro said. "Give people a chance to tell us whether we're crazy or not."

No date for public consultation has been set. The city wants the new billing system to kick in May 1.