LOWER TOWNSHIP – With strong support from many neighbors – and firm opposition from others – Township Council Wednesday, Feb. 18 unanimously approved an ordinance mandating homeowners connect to township water lines where available.
Mayor Mike Beck said the vote was long overdue, and applauded council members for supporting the measure, which had been requested by the township Municipal Utilities Authority.
MUA officials said the ordinance was needed to ensure the authority had funding to continue to expand the township water service. Otherwise, they said, the authority could spend millions on new infrastructure only to see few homeowners connect. The initial request came years ago, but the issue was repeatedly discussed and delayed, with several council members expressing concern for the cost to residents.
Several residents of the Town Bank and Villas sections of the township welcomed the ordinance at a public hearing held before the vote. They hope the rules will mean quick access to municipal water in their neighborhoods. Some complained about the taste of their well water and its affect on water heaters and other appliances, while others expressed fear of contamination.
However, other township residents strongly opposed the measure as unnecessary, with some describing it as an intrusion on freedom and an expansion of government interference.
Council members said it will be many years before some areas of the township see water and sewer lines, and that the areas of greatest population density will be the MUA’s priority.