DUBOIS – The basic framework to propose a joint sewer agreement to DuBois City was approved by the Sandy Township Supervisors on Monday night.
It was noted that this will allow both municipalities to continue negotiations without being bound by an official agreement yet.
According to the supervisors, under the current proposal, it would be in effect for 30 years following the construction of the new sewage treatment plant.
For example, if the construction occurred four years following the agreement, it would be in effect for 34 years. If it were signed the day the plant activated, it would be in effect for 30 years.
It was also noted both the maintenance and ownership of the township’s sewage lines would remain with the township.
DuBois City would assume billing responsibilities, and the supervisors would like any inflow and infiltration surcharges to be billed to the township, rather than its residents.
Some issues are still being debated, however.
“I’m not totally against it down the road. At this point, I wouldn’t be in agreement to hand off our billing to the city,” said Supervisor Jim Jeffers. “… I could see an additional agreement down the road.”
Supervisor Kevin Salandra indicated that it’d be a significant savings to have city officials manage the billing.