Prohibits sewerage authority from imposing connection fee in certain circumstances.
Impact
The enactment of S4118 would positively impact redevelopment efforts across New Jersey by reducing financial barriers for property owners looking to revitalize old or abandoned sites. By eliminating the possibility of new connection fees, the bill encourages investment in these properties, which can lead to increased economic activity and community revitalization. The provisions also include a requirement for the reimbursement of any previously paid connection fees by sewerage authorities if those fees were paid under protest, adding an additional layer of support for property owners.
Summary
Senate Bill 4118, introduced by Senator Troy Singleton, seeks to prevent sewerage authorities from imposing new connection fees on property owners or occupants when redeveloping properties that have been connected to a sewerage system for twenty or more years. The intent of the bill is to incentivize the redevelopment of obsolete or vacant properties by alleviating the financial burden that a connection fee may impose on potential developers. This prohibition applies even in cases where the properties have not been in active use, or when redevelopment includes alterations that require modifications to existing sewer connections.
Contention
While the bill is primarily supportive of redevelopment initiatives, some potential points of contention may arise from sewerage authorities that rely on connection fees as a funding mechanism. Opponents may argue that eliminating these fees could undermine the financial sustainability of sewerage services and lead to increased costs for existing customers. Nonetheless, the overarching goal of S4118 is to stimulate economic growth through property redevelopment, aligning with broader state policies that recognize the value of repurposing underutilized land.
Prohibits sewerage authorities, municipal authorities, and local units of government from charging interest on unpaid sewer fees and charges attributable to State or local entities, including housing authorities.