Townwide support of expanded sewer district mulled in Moreau

MOREAU -- Almost everyone agrees sewer service is needed along Route 9 if it stands a chance of blooming into the commercial corridor desired to offset the residential tax burden in coming years.

But, as always, its a question of who will pay for the infrastructure, and many are wondering if theres a way to distribute the cost of a proposed $14.1 million project which includes sewer service on Route 9 and down Bluebird Road across the town instead of laying it only on those within the sewer district.

Is there a way to have it paid for by the entire town not just those in the district? If we get commercial development on Route 9, we will all benefit, said resident Bobbi Spaulding during the public comment portion of Tuesdays Town Board meeting. Spaulding, who does not live in the proposed extension, made the connection between the tax base and the school district considering closing a school, saying its all connected.

Supervisor Preston Jenkins said that was a common suggestion he heard over the past 30 days, and an idea he would support pursuing.

I dont know if people would support it, but I wouldnt have a problem trying it, Jenkins said.

The Town Board meeting fell the day after the deadline for property owners within the sewer district to petition to send formation of the new district to a vote.

That vote will be held from noon to 8 p.m. April 1 at the Municipal Complex using machines from the Saratoga County Board of Elections.

By law, only property owners may vote, which some residents took issue with at the meeting.

Corporations will get one vote, and if one person owns several properties, they will get one vote. If a property is owned jointly, it appears both owners would get a vote, said Town Attorney Karla Beuttner.

The town learned in early December it would qualify for low-interest funding, for the first time ever, and was given a condensed timeline to complete adoption of the district, which was required for a valid application.

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Townwide support of expanded sewer district mulled in Moreau