FAIRFIELD — Ahead of a Town Council vote scheduled for Wednesday night, residents will have a chance to weigh in on proposed amendments to the Sewer Use Ordinance at a public hearing.

Town Manager Michelle Flewelling said the proposed amendments are minor and were addressing a few inconsistencies regarding billing. Bills were currently being committed to the town’s tax collector, when they are actually supposed to go to the treasurer. In Fairfield, both positions are currently filled by the same person, but it’s just an inconsistency that needed to be addressed.

Another issue being addressed is when bills are payable. With the new language, bills are due and payable 30 days after the date of the billing. The previous language had specific dates, which Flewelling said was not followed.

A new section involves a person using water that will not enter the sewer system, like for pools. With the new language, residents will be able to rent an external flow meter from the town, so a credit towards consumption amounts may be calculated.

“The pool meter will be an added benefit to folks,” she said.

The Town Council will vote on these proposed amendments following Wednesday’s public hearing. Flewelling said the council recently approved increased sewer rates. The rates went from $51.30 a quarter to $58.40 a quarter, and the increased funds would be used towards general maintenance of the facilities. Flewelling said the town’s sewer operating budget has “been in the red” for a number of years. In 2015, the town agreed to raise the rates with the goal of annual adjustments to follow. However, she said with changes in the town administration, those adjustments were put on the back burner until now.

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Another proposed amendment to the ordinance involves how much revenue for retiring debt services, capital expenditures, operation and maintenance come from sewer charges. The previous language said no less than 90 percent of those revenues would come from user fees, while the new proposed language says no less than 50 percent.

Colin Ellis — 861-9253

cellis@centralmaine.com

Twitter: @colinoellis


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