PORT JERVIS – City officials are reviewing a comprehensive Sewer Use Law that would cover all aspects of the City of Port Jervis’ sewer system and waste treatment plant.
Among the few speakers during a public hearing prior to Monday night’s Common Council meeting was former city building inspector Wayne Kidney, who raised serious questions about handling of money.
“It basically misappropriates the sewer fees that were presented to the public, to be used specifically for a savings fund to replace $99 million worth sewer infrastructure,” Kidney said.
There is no plan to spend that kind of money, all at once, to replace the entire sewer system.
According to the wording of the 92-page ordinance: “Revenues derived from user charges and associated penalties, and impact fees, shall be credited to a special fund.” The fund is to be used exclusively for certain purposes relating to the operation and maintenance of the city water treatment system.
Mayor Kelly Decker defended the wording of the law and rejected a suggestion there is misappropriation by allocating money outside of that parameter.
“Part of repairing, if we have DPW workers repairing those pipes is their salary and benefits,” Decker said. “There is no misappropriation of funds there.”
No action was taken during Monday night’s council meeting.
