City of Lake City
Wastewater Administration Policies
Table of Contents
Page
Wastewater Application and Contract for Service................................3,4,5,5
Customer Fees, Rates, and Charges.........................................................7,8,9
Wastewater Connection Fees.............................................................10,11,12
Billing and Payment...........................................................................13,14,15
Adjustments to Bills................................................................................16,17
Accounts Collection.......................................................................18,19,20,21
Adjustments to Bills/Leak Adjustments..............................................22,23,24
Connection to the Wastewater System................................................25,26,27
Service to Non-Owner Occupied Property...............................................28,29
Industrial and Commercial Customers................................................30,31,32
Wastewater Service Connection Fees...................33,34,35,36,37,38,39,40,41
Subdivisions and Developers....................................................42,43,44,45,46
Customer Complaints..........................................................................47,48,49
Customer Discrimination................................................................................50
Meetings of the Utility Board..............................................................51,52,53
Utility Records.....................................................................................54,55,56
Alternative Methods for Discontinuance of Service.............57,58,59,60,61,62
Introduction
The location and availability of wastewater service, perhaps more than any other utility,
controls the development and growth of the city. The city uses wastewater policies to
guide the operation, maintenance, and development and growth of the wastewater system.
It is important that the staff, health officials, consulting engineers, public officials, and
citizens understand the policies and procedures for wastewater service. These policies are
intended as a guide for those who use or desire to use the service provided by the City of
Lake City and for the staff charged with the responsibility of providing the service.
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Wastewater Application and Contract for Service
Customer Account No._____________
Date Service Requested_____________
It is the policy of the city=s wastewater system to require that the applicant seeking
service be the responsible party residing at the service address. Anyone seeking service
who is acting on the applicant=s behalf may be required by the city to provide the
applicant=s written verification as well as applicant=s identification papers, as required
below.
Whenever an application is made for service and the city has knowledge of a dispute as to
the ownership of the right of occupancy at the service address, and one or more of the
claimants attempts to prevent such service being furnished, the city reserves the right to
adopt either one of the following two courses:
(a)
Treat the applicant in actual possession of the premises at the service
address as being entitled to such service, notwithstanding the rights
or claims of other persons; renters may be required to provide a rent
receipt or some other verification of rent.
(b)
Withhold service pending a judicial or other settlement of the rights of
the various claimants.
This Agreement, entered into by and between the City of Lake City of Anderson County,
Tennessee, a municipal corporation established and existing under the laws of the State of
Tennessee, hereinafter referred to as the Acity wastewater system,@ and the applicant,
hereinafter referred to as Acustomer@:
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Full Legal
Name(s):_________________________________________________________
Street Address (for
service):___________________________________________________
Billing Address (if different):__________________________________________________
Driver License No.
(s):_______________________________________________________
Social Security No.
(s):_______________________________________________________
Phone No. of Service
Address:_________________________________________________
Phone No. of Service Address (if
different):_______________________________________
Work/Day Phone
No.:________________________________________________________
Emergency Phone No. of Relative Not at Service
Address:___________________________
Applicant is:
______Owner
_____Renter
Service Type:
______Single Family
_____Other
_____Multi-family
______Industrial
______Commercial
______Home Based Business
______Trailer Park
___________Other
Is there any medical reason that service cannot be interrupted?
Explain:________________
________________________________________________________________________
__
________________________________________________________________________
__
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Written verification from a medical doctor is required before a service can be labeled as
non-cut-off.
In consideration of payment by the Customer of certain fees detailed in the Schedule of
Rates and Charges, the city wastewater system agrees to furnish service to the service
address listed herein, and the customer agrees to purchase services from the city
wastewater system, subject to the terms and conditions herein set forth.
1.
The obligations of this contract shall be binding upon the executors, administrators
and estate of the original parties, provided that no application, service agreement or
service contract may be assigned or transferred without the written consent of the
city.
2.
It is agreed that if a customer sells, subdivides or leases the property herein
described, the customer will notify the city in order that it may execute a new
contract with the successor customer.
3.
It is understood and agreed that every condition of this contract is of the essence of
the contract, and if breached, the city may cut off the wastewater service to the
service address and may not be reconnected except by order of the city, after the
payment of all rates and charges have been made by the customer.
4.
Wastewater services provided by the city shall be supplied only to the applicant at
the address named in this contract. The customer shall not connect any other
dwelling or property to his service.
5.
The wastewater pump and related appurtenances serving the customer=s service
address shall remain the property of the city.
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6.
The city or its agents reserve the right to make inspections of the service
installation within the customer=s premises upon reasonable notice and at
reasonable time. The city assumes no liability for the operation or maintenance of
the customer=s plumbing.
7.
The customer agrees to keep the property at the service address accessible and
free from impediments to city access and maintenance.
8.
The city shall have the right to restrict, control or discontinue service at any time
during emergencies or repairs. The city shall not be liable for failure to furnish
service for any reason beyond its control or for any loss, injury or damage to
persons, plumbing or property resulting from such service curtailment or
discontinuance.
9.
The city makes no guarantees, expressed or implied, as to service quality, quantity,
consistency or continuity.
10.
The city shall, at its discretion, specify how and what uses may be made of service
provided to customer. If the customer fails to comply with the uses so specified,
service shall be discontinued.
11.
All service lines located on the customer=s side of the pump are the responsibility
of the customer.
12.
If the customer is connected to a well, the city may charge a minimum fee or at its
discretion require the installation of a meter to record water usage.
13.
All requests for disconnection of service shall be made in writing or in person if
possible. The city will accept telephone requests for discontinuance if caller can
give adequate identification. The city will make every effort to respond within a
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reasonable time.
14.
If the applicant fails to connect to the wastewater system when service is available,
the customer will pay the minimum bill until such times as the customer installs his
service or notifies the city that service is no longer desired.
15.
The customer agrees that in the event any utility property or equipment is damaged,
destroyed or tampered with by the fault of the customer, it shall be repaired or
replaced at the customer=s expense.
16.
The city shall have the right to estimate or prorate any bill when conditions beyond
the control of the city prevent the normal billing procedure.
17.
If the customer after signing this contract does not take the service for any reason,
the customer shall reimburse the city for any expenses incurred.
18.
The receipt by the city of the application for service of the prospective customer,
regardless of whether or not accompanied by payment of fees, shall not obligate the
city to render such service. If the service cannot be supplied in accordance with
the city=s policies, rules, regulations and general practice or those of any state or
federal agency with oversight regarding service, the liability of the city to the
applicant for such service shall be limited to return of any fees paid to the city by
such applicant.
19.
If the city damages any underground facilities the customer cannot locate, the
customer will be responsible for all repairs.
By my signature, I obligate myself to obey all rules and regulations of the city
wastewater system at the service address in accordance with the prevailing rate
schedule set by the governing board. In the event of non-payment or unauthorized
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partial payment, I agree that the city may terminate service and that all unpaid bills
are immediately payable by me, including all costs of collection and attorneys fees.
It is further understood that the city has the right and shall continue to have the
right to make, amend and enforce any policies, regulations or ordinances that may
be necessary or proper regarding any wastewater matter. The customer agrees to
abide by such policies, regulations or ordinances.
Signature:_______________________________________Date:_______________
____
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Customer Fees, Rates, and Charges
Background and Purpose
It is generally accepted utility practice in the United States that each customer pay
his fair share for utility service. Each customer must pay his fair share for service
used and for the availability of service. The city's minimum bill covers the costs of
the infrastructure and overhead to make service available. Each customer is
charged a minimum bill regardless of whether the customer actually uses service
during the billing period.
The wastewater system is run for the benefit of all present and future customers.
While no customer shall be treated unfairly intentionally, no customer shall be
treated in any way that compromises the interests of other current and future
customers.
Limitations
The city wastewater system is subject to various city, county, state, federal or other
governmental agency requirements and has no discretion to set fees in a manner
which would violate these regulations.
Record Keeping Duration
All records of fees shall be kept for a minimum of ten years.
Omissions
This policy does not include any provisions for utility deposits which are covered in
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the Special Deposits Policy. The governing board reserves the right to establish
new fees, rates, and charges and to modify existing fees, rates, and charges as it
deems appropriate.
Policy
Charges for New Service
1.
Any customer or potential customer desiring wastewater service from this city shall
fill out a CUSTOMER APPLICATION FORM. The fee associated with the
application is NOT a security deposit and is NOT refundable unless the city cannot,
within a reasonable period of time, provide service.
2.
No application fee shall be charged to transfer an existing account to a new service
and/or billing address (unless it also involves a change in the name of the
account-see above), subject to the payment of any tap fees or other fees that may
be required.
3.
No application fee shall be assessed to a property owner who resumes
responsibility for service formerly in the name of a tenant.
4.
A tap fee is a charge made when utility service is initially run from the main line to
the customer's property line. The ownership of the tap is conveyed along with the
property.
5.
A residential or commercial/industrial tap shall entitle a customer to utility service to
one and only one dwelling or business. If a second residential dwelling or business
is to receive service on the same or neighboring tract, a second tap must be
obtained.
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6.
If any customer fails to disconnect any additional dwellings during the allotted time
period, the customer's service shall be disconnected for violation of the rules and
regulations of this city at the convenience of the city.
Temporary or Seasonal Charges
7.
No application fee shall be assessed to a property owner who resumes
responsibility for service formerly in the name of a tenant.
8.
The customer shall pay all costs for the discontinuance and reinstatement of service
for temporary repairs and for any other purposes for the customer's exclusive
benefit.
9.
If a customer wishes service to be temporarily turned off, he must contact the city
billing office in person or in writing
10.
As long as the account is active, a minimum bill will be assessed at each billing
period. (The minimum bill reflects each customer's share of the overhead to
operate the system). By keeping the account active, the customer can demand
service at any time and therefore must share in the costs.
Miscellaneous Charges
11.
If full payment is not received in the city office by the close of business on the date
noted on the bill, the customer must pay the gross amount shown on the bill.
12.
Any customer questioning the accuracy of his bill must review the bill with the city
billing manager or her designee. The billing manger will review the accuracy of the
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metered flow with the water utility.
If the water utility indicates that the flow
reading is accurate, the bill will remain due and payable.
13
13.
If a customer=s check is returned to the city by a financial institution for any
reason, a fee in the amount of $20 will be added to the amount due. The
customer will be notified that the check is being held, and the customer may be
required to pay the amount by money order, cashier's check or cash, at the
discretion of the billing office staff.
14.
When a service request is made after normal operating hours and the problem is
with the city system, the city shall bear the expense of the service call. If the
problem is found to be on the customer=s side of the sewer system, a sewer back
up caused by an obstruction in the customer=s piping, the customer shall pay for
the expense of the service call at a rate established by the city board.
15.
The city board shall establish service connect and disconnect fees, rates for service
and other charges. Such fees and rates may be higher for non residents when in
the opinion of the city system costs for service is greater for non residents. When
possible, rate studies shall be prepared to establish equitable rates sufficient to pay
all expenses of the wastewater system.
Policy
Adoption Date: __________________
Effective Date: __________________
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Wastewater Connection Fees
Background and Purpose
The wastewater connection fee shall include an equity cost that current customers have
contributed to capital over a period of time, the costs for materials, and the actual cost of
making the connection, including street repairs when the connection is made in the surface
of the street. Each residential, commercial, or industrial unit shall be charged an individual
service connection fee or tap fee for each unit. For example a mobile home park with one
pump and four mobile homes shall be charged for four service connections or tap fees; it
being recognized that the tap is to the wastewater system and not just to the pump.
Example:
Calculate System Equity
Current Assets June 30, 2002
$6,118,113.78
Less grants and contributed capital
Net Assets
4,984,613.77
$1,133,500.01
Less liabilities June 30, 2002
$
324,488.59
Equity or customer ownership
$
809,011.00
Connection Fees
$809,011/900 customers = $898.90 per residential customer
The wastewater connection fee would be $898.90 plus the cost for
the pump, materials, labor, and street repairs.
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To calculate the usage factor, using a restaurant and the attached
explanation of fee calculations:
50 seat restaurant at 20 gallons per day per seat = 1,000 gallons
per day.
1,000 gpd x 30 days = 30,000 gallons per month.
30,000 gpm/7,500 gpm residential = 4.0.
4 x $898.90 = restaurant connection fee of $3,595.60.
Total fee is $3,595.60 plus the costs for materials, pumps, supplies,
labor, street repair and other.
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Special Deposit
Background and Purpose
The city's governing board must set rates, fees, and charges to produce sufficient revenues
to meet all its obligations, including operating expenses and indebtedness. Based upon its
economic experience, a city may adopt a policy dealing with requiring certain customers or
accounts to pay to the city a special deposit in addition to those fees normally charged to
customers or accounts. The city may require that certain customers pay a special deposit,
only after the city has documented through its records that certain types of customers have
placed an additional financial burden on its other customers or accounts by not paying their
bills.
Limitations
Because the city has the exclusive authority to provide necessary services, the courts have
imposed upon the city the duty to serve without unjust discrimination. No special deposit
may be charged unless financial experience establishes that such requirement is not an
"unjust" discrimination.
The city is subject to federal and state laws governing credit reporting. Seeking, using or
giving out information from credit reports in violation of such laws may subject the city and
the city=s employee to suit for damages, actual and punitive, costs and attorney's fees.
Record Keeping Duration
All records regarding special deposits shall be kept indefinitely.
Omissions
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No deposit shall be charged in the absence of a specific rule or policy granting such right.
Policy
1.
Applicants seeking utility service shall complete the city's customer application or
contract. Upon completion of this application or contract the city shall determine if
the customer is classified as one of the following types of customers:
2.
(a)
Renter or Lessee
(b)
Home-Based business
(c)
Commercial
(d)
Multi-Family
A special deposit shall be charged to the above selected class(es) of customers.
The deposit charged to the above class(es) of customers shall apply to the
following services:
3.
(a)
Water & Wastewater/Residential
(b)
Water & Wastewater/Commercial
$_________
$_________
The following method shall be used to refund customer deposits:
Choose one method
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(a)
Deposits shall be held until termination of service. The deposit
shall be applied to any outstanding balance on the account
and the remainder shall be refunded to the customer.
(b)
Deposits shall be refunded to customers in _____ year(s) if the
customer maintains a good payment history (no late payments or
cutoffs for non-payment) for a _____-year period of time.
Policy
Adoption Date: ______________
Effective Date _______________
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Billing and Payment
Background and Purpose
The customer is responsible for the payment of wastewater service and other duly
authorized charges. The city must enforce its discontinuance policy for the nonpayment of
wastewater bills. Covenants in the city's bond resolution, grant and loan agreements, and
the regulations of the Comptroller of the Treasury require that the city have a
discontinuance of service policy in place for the nonpayment of bills and that the city
enforce this policy.
Record Keeping Duration
All records regarding customer billing shall be kept for a minimum of five years.
Omissions
In the absence of specific rules or policies, the disposition of matters related to customer
billing shall be made by the governing board in accordance with its usual and customary
practices.
Policy
1.
Wastewater bills for residences will be rendered monthly. Commercial and industrial
customers may be billed monthly or more frequently, at the discretion of the
governing board.
2.
Wastewater bills shall include a "net" discount amount with a payment due date,
after which date the "gross" amount shall apply.
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3.
Shall the date for payment of a bill fall on a week-end or a holiday, the bill may be
paid on the following business day at the net amount.
4.
When a customer does not pay a bill by the final payment date for the gross
amount of the bill, service shall be discontinued in accordance with the wastewater
discontinuance of service policy. The customer's bill or final notice of service
termination for nonpayment shall advise the customer that any dispute concerning
the bill must be reported to the city within five days to avoid discontinuance of
service.
5.
Utility bills are recognized as a routine bill owed by the customer. The customer's
failure to receive a bill does not change in any way the customer's obligation to pay
the amount due in a timely manner.
Note: The board shall choose one of the following (a or aa):
6.
The following bill payment method/locations are acceptable:
a.
Mail - payment will be posted according to the postmark on the
payment.
aa.
Payment will be posted according to the day it was received.
b.
Drop-off box - payment posted on business day that box is opened.
c.
Other designated areas (banks, stores, etc.) - payment posted on
day accepted at designated area.
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7.
When a customer receives a final notice and considers the bill to be incorrect, the
customer may request a review of the bill. To request a review, the customer must
contact any clerical employee of the city in person or by telephone within five days
after the date of the final notice. In the event the dispute cannot be resolved by
telephone, the customer must make an appointment to meet with a city billing
manager authorized to make bill adjustments within ten days of the final notice. The
customer's service will not be discontinued for failure to pay a disputed bill until
after the customer has the opportunity to meet with the billing manager or her
designee.
The customer may request that the disputed bill be reviewed by the governing
board of the city by serving written notice to the billing manager of the customer's
desire to appear before the board.
8.
Any check that fails to clear the bank shall be treated as non-payment. If the check
is returned because of insufficient funds or any other reason that is the fault of the
customer, the date of payment will be deemed to be the date of good and proper
payment. If that date falls after the "net" amount date, the customer bill is subject
to gross amount charges and check return charges.
9.
In the event any customer fails to pay any utility fee or charge, the customer shall
pay all costs of collection including court costs and reasonable attorney's fees
incurred by the city in collecting such sums.
10.
Each customer must give a minimum of seven (7) day=s notice to the city of
service termination. The customer will be responsible for all charges which accrue
to the end of the seven (7) day period including the minimum charge.
11.
Procedure for customer notification of discontinuance of service:
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a.
In person: customer must present acceptable identification.
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b.
Phone, mail or fax: customer must include address, account number,
and one other form of positive account identification.
Policy
Adoption Date:____________________
Effective Date:____________________
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Adjustments to Bills
Background and Purpose
It is generally accepted utility practice in the United States that the customer is responsible
for utility service on the customer side of the meter. This includes responsibility for
leakage. A customer seeking a leak adjustment shall realize that the water he or she
doesn't pay for will be paid for by other customers.
The utility is run for the benefit of all present and future customers, and while no customer
shall intentionally be treated unfairly, no customer shall be treated in a way that
compromises the interests of other customers.
Limitations
The utility is subject to various state and federal regulations and has no discretion to adjust
bills in a manner which would violate these regulations.
Record Keeping Duration
All records of billing adjustments shall be kept for a minimum of ten years.
Omissions
In the absence of specific rules or policies, the disposition of billing adjustments shall be
made by the Governing Board in accordance with its usual and customary practices.
Policy
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1.
It is the policy of the city wastewater system to have the customers of the utility
subsidize the bill of any one customer only when there is an inaccurate meter or
utility equipment failure. Examples include, but are not limited to the following:
(a)
damaged meters;
(b)
frozen meters;
(c)
leakage on the customer's side of the meter that is caused by the
utility.
2.
The customers of the utility shall NOT subsidize the extraordinary water use of any
one customer if it is caused by other reasons. Examples include, but are not limited
to, leaky plumbing fixtures, filling of swimming pools, lawn and garden watering or
freezing of pipe or fixtures.
3.
Any customer questioning the accuracy of his metered wastewater may ask the
water utility to test the meter or replace under the water utilities policies.
4.
If an adjustment of the customer's bill is warranted due to an inaccurate meter or
due to the failure of equipment that is the responsibility of the utility, the amount of
the bill will be determined based on an average for the billing period for the last
twelve months.
5.
The utility shall not be obligated to make adjustments of any bills not contested
after ninety (90) days from the billing date.
6.
The utility shall be under no obligation to extend the discount date or the time for
paying any bills because the customer disputes the amount of the bill or liability for
the bill.
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Policy
Adoption Date:__________________________
Effective Date:__________________________
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Accounts Collection
Introduction and Application
The cost of collection of an account may only be collected if the customer is notified at the
time of contracting for service that they are responsible for these fees or for existing
customers subject to these policies and regulations. All wastewater customers of the city
are subject to these utility policies as they now exist or may be modified from time to time
by the governing board. The city shall lock out all disconnected services and require that
customers complete an application prior to any new service being provided. The
application shall require a social security number, driver=s license number, and address of
the person responsible for paying for the service. Multi-unit customers being served by
one unit shall not be required to submit an application. The customer making the initial
application shall be sufficient to identify who is responsible for the account payment.
Background and Purpose
It is generally accepted utility practice that each customer must pay his fair share for utility
service. When customers skip out on payment or refuse to make payment for services
received, they increase the cost of service to all remaining customers. The city shall take
every step necessary to collect outstanding balances on accounts to insure that all
customers pay their fair share of the cost of services provided. The costs to collect
delinquent accounts shall be borne by the customer who has failed to pay. To facilitate
collection of these costs, the city may need to modify its current contract for service or its
method of establishing new accounts to request information such as social security and/or
driver's license numbers. (See sample attached).
Limitations
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The collection of debts is subject to several state and federal laws specifying fair debt
collection requirements. A city has no discretion to seek collection in a manner that
violates such laws.
Bankruptcy
When a customer takes bankruptcy, the city shall receive a notice from the customer or
from the bankruptcy court. The city shall file a claim for any outstanding accounts with the
bankruptcy court. A bankruptcy protects a customer from prior debt. The city shall
request that the water utility read the meter immediately. The record shall be marked to
indicate the period of time covered by the bankruptcy proceedings. The customer is
responsible for all wastewater debts created after the bankruptcy time period and from the
date of the new meter reading. The city shall use regular collection policies in collecting
new debt incurred after the bankruptcy period.
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Record Keeping Duration
All records regarding account collection shall be kept for a period of six (6) years.
Omissions
In the absence of a specific rule or policy, the governing board of the city shall resolve
issues involving accounts collection in accordance with its usual and customary practices.
Policy
Accounts cut-off for non-payment or discontinued accounts shall be subject to this policy.
1.
Within ____ days after an account has been discontinued or cut off for
non-payment, the city shall institute its collection procedure. That procedure shall
include the following:
Select one option.
(a)
A letter from the city to the account holder making demand for
payment;
(b)
If payment is not received by the city within
(1)
______ business days,
or
(2)
by the next billing cycle,
the billing manager shall place the account in one of the following
categories for collection:
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Select one option.
(1)
The city shall continue to pursue collection by any appropriate action,
including but not limited to retaining counsel to pursue possible legal
remedies; or,
(2)
The city billing manager determines that collection is not feasible and
recommends that the bill be written off.
(3)
Collect the debt under an ordinance making it illegal to fail or refuse
to pay the sewer bill.
(4)
As a very last resort, after all other remedies have been exhausted to
collect for outstanding wastewater service, the billing manager may
recommend that the service be disconnected.
2.
At the next regular meeting of the governing board, the billing manager will report:
Select one option.
(a)
The accounts which he has categorized since the last board meeting,
noting the method of collection that is being pursued for each
account. This report shall include the status of any previously
reported accounts that have been collected.
(b)
The billing manager shall report any accounts that are to be written
off to the board.
(c)
The billing manager shall report on delinquent accounts that remain
unpaid and shall be considered for discontinuance of service or for
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ordinance violation.
3.
The Board shall approve or disapprove any determination that an account shall be
written off.
4.
For those customers who have not paid for wastewater service and whose account
is delinquent and discontinuance of service is being considered, the board shall
schedule a hearing before the board to give the account owner an opportunity to
respond to the fact that the account is delinquent and that discontinuance of service
is being considered. Following the hearing, if the customer does not satisfactorily
resolve the delinquency, the customer refusing to pay the monthly wastewater fee
shall be given a ninety (90) days notice that states that the fees have not been
paid, a hearing has been provided before the wastewater board, and service will
be discontinued at the end of ninety (90) days unless they are paid. If the
customer refuses to pay or does not pay, he shall make other arrangements for
wastewater disposal. Send a copy of the notice to the county health officer and the
county executive. If the fees remain unpaid, disconnect the service by plugging the
building sewer discharge prior to the grinder pump. It is important that you treat
every customer who does not pay the same way. Any disconnection of wastewater
service may involve some level of risk. The city, including the board and staff, may
be negatively criticized for disconnecting an individual=s wastewater service where
there are children or elderly people involved or some other hardship. Someone
may legally challenge your action to disconnect the service or you may be sued for
the action. The city is not under any obligation to provide free wastewater service.
Note: MTAS did not find any legal opinions that would authorize a city to
disconnect the service, nor did we find any opinions that requires a city to continue
to provide the service free of charge. We think that if you give a reasonable notice
for the disconnection of service, unless the wastewater fee is paid, your city will
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be in a better position if challenged. We recommend that you make your decisions
based upon the best information that you have, after consulting with your city
attorney, after carefully considering state and local laws, your wastewater policies,
and upon what is best for your city, and not on the basis that someone is
threatening to sue you or the city. You shall not be afraid to do what is best for
your city.
5.
In the event a complaint has been filed in accordance with the established
complaint procedure contesting the propriety of the charges on such account, then
collection of such account may not be pursued until the governing board has taken
final action on the complaint.
6.
Any person(s) on whose account collection procedures have been instituted who
has made full restitution to the city and/or its agents will not be refused service.
However, the person(s) may be required to pay an additional special deposit or
service charge before service is provided, in accordance with the city=s policy.
7.
Any fees or additional costs to the city for collection of an account shall be borne
by the person(s) whose name(s) appears on the account.
8.
The city may report accounts covered under this policy that have not made
restitution to a credit reporting agency.
Policy
Adoption Date:
__________________
Effective Date:
__________________
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Adjustments to Bills/Leak Adjustments
Background and Purpose
Generally, the customer must pay for all wastewater flows which pass through the
customer's water meter provided by the water utility. When a customer does not pay on
the basis of all water metered, the cost of such wastewater service must be recovered
from other customers. Because an unknown leak may cause an undue burden on
individual customers, this policy balances these interests by allowing the customer a leak
adjustment under certain circumstances.
The city wastewater collection system is run for the benefit of all present and future
customers. While no customer shall be treated unfairly intentionally, no customer shall be
treated in any way that compromises the interests of other current and future customers.
Limitations
The city wastewater system is subject to various city, county, state, federal or other
governmental agency requirements and has no discretion to adjust bills in a manner which
would violate these regulations.
Record Keeping Duration
All records of billing adjustments shall be kept for a minimum of ten years.
Omissions
In special circumstances not covered by this policy, the disposition of billing adjustments
shall be made by the governing board in accordance with its usual and customary
34
practices.
Policy
1.
The need to adjust a utility bill may be evident by a customer complaint of
excessive billing or evidence of leakage on the customer side of the meter.
2.
It is the customer's responsibility to keep his plumbing system in good working
order. If the city notifies a customer of a potential leak and the repair is not made
within 15 days, there shall be no adjustment for leakage.
3.
No customer shall receive more than one adjustment during any one calendar year.
4.
The city will communicate with the water utility to investigate the accuracy of the
metered water. If an investigation of the meter and meter records establishes that
the meter was misread or that there was a failure of utility equipment, a new bill
will be issued using an estimated reading based on an average of the past 12
months= billings for this period. There will be no penalty assessed in the event the
adjustment procedure delays payment past the penalty date.
5.
If an investigation of the meter and meter record establishes that the meter was
properly read and that there was no failure of utility equipment, the bill will remain
valid and payable.
6.
If the customer questions the accuracy of the meter, he shall request the water
utility test the meter or replace it. If the meter proves to be accurate within
guidelines established by the water utility, it is deemed to be accurate.
7.
If an adjustment of the customer's bill is warranted, the amount of the bill will be
35
determined based on an average for the billing period for the last 12 months=
billing. Customers with less than 12 months of service shall average the bill for the
number of months of prior service.
8.
To be adjusted, the leak must not be readily evident to a reasonable person (such
as leaks that are underground, within walls or under floors) or the leak must occur
while occupants are away from the premises.
9.
Adjustments on wastewater bills will NOT be made on the following:
(1)
Routine dripping faucets, leaking commodes, or any type of faulty
customer plumbing;
(2)
Premises left or abandoned without reasonable care for the
(3)
More than one occurrence per calendar year;
(4)
Filling of swimming pools; and
(5)
Watering of lawns or gardens.
plumbing system;
Note: The customer may request the water utility install a separate garden,
irrigation, or pool meter. The city will not charge a wastewater fee for water
that passes through these meters and does not flow into the wastewater
system.
10.
The city shall not be obligated to make adjustments of any bills not contested within
ninety (90) days from the billing date.
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11.
The city shall be under no obligation to extend the discount or due date or the time
for paying any bills because the customer disputes the amount of the bill.
12.
All requests for billing adjustments must be received by phone, in writing or in
person at the business office of the city during regular business hours.
13.
When the city suspects leakage on the customer's side of the meter, the city shall
attempt to notify the customer by leaving a "door hanger" on the premises or by
telephone. The city's attempt to notify the customer of a suspected leak is an
accommodation to the customer, not a duty to the customer. When the customer
has been notified of a leak or is otherwise aware of a leak and makes no
reasonable effort to repair, the city shall not be liable to make any adjustments in
the wastewater bill.
14.
The billing manager shall file a written report of the customer billing adjustment and
the action of the staff regarding the adjustment.
Policy
Adoption Date: ______________
Effective Date: ______________
37
Connection to the Wastewater System
Background and Purpose
It is accepted utility practice in the United States that only one dwelling be allowed to hook
on to a single utility service line. The costs of utility service are to be shared as equitably
as possible among utility customers. Minimum bills reflect, among other things, the
overhead required to keep utility service in place, regardless of whether a particular
customer uses the service during a billing period. The fact that service is ready upon
demand 24 hours every day to meet a customer's potential needs places financial
demands on the system that are generally reflected in the minimum bill. If utilities were to
allow more than one customer to hook up to a single service line, several users would be
paying only one minimum bill. The legitimate overhead costs of the system would be
disproportionately passed on to other customers. In addition, the following circumstances
require the city to limit service to one dwelling unit per sewer pump when possible:
(a)
Pumps and other equipment have a definite capacity and working range.
The reliability and life span of the sewer pump equipment may be impaired if
not properly sized for projected and actual flows;
(b)
The cost of electricity is provided by the individual customer.
The wastewater system is run for the benefit of all present and future customers, and while
no customer shall intentionally be treated unfairly, no customer shall be treated in a way
that compromises the interests of other customers.
Limitations
The city=s wastewater system is subject to various state and federal regulations and has
38
no discretion to offer service in a manner which would violate these regulations.
Record Keeping Duration
All multiple service connection records shall be kept for a minimum of ten years after
termination of service.
Omissions
In the absence of specific rules or policies, the disposition of multiple connections to one
meter shall be made by the governing board in accordance with its usual and customary
practices.
39
Policy
1.
The wastewater service connection to single family residences shall be limited to
serving one residence only. No other dwelling, whether located on the same parcel
or on an adjoining parcel, shall be served through the same service connection.
Customers may have lines extended to barns and other uninhabited buildings as
part of their service, provided that the installation meets the utility's specifications.
2.
A residential tapping privilege shall not entitle a customer to connect a commercial
or industrial business such as a beauty parlor or repair shop to the city's sewer
lines without express approval of the city.
3.
Authorized employees, representatives and contractors of the city shall have access
to all properties served by the city at reasonable times for the purpose of servicing
pumps and equipment, maintaining and inspecting lines and connections to the
wastewater system (or those believed to be connected to the system), observation,
measurement, sampling and testing as provided by the policies of the city and by
state and federal law.
4.
The failure of a customer to comply with the provisions of this and other policies of
the wastewater system shall constitute a breach of contract by the customer. Any
customer found to be violating any provision of this policy shall be served by the
city with written notice stating the nature of the violation and providing a time limit
for the satisfactory correction thereof. The offending customer shall, within the
period of time stated in such notice, permanently cease all violations.
5.
Any customer who shall continue any violation beyond the time limit stated in the
notice shall be disconnected from the system at the convenience of the city.
40
6.
The following residential dwellings shall have a separate wastewater pump for each
living unit:
(a)
Single family dwellings;
(b)
Commercial and industrial buildings;
Note: The city shall determine the number of sewer pumps required for commercial
and industrial services based upon the location of buildings, the number of
occupants, projected or actual wastewater flows or other factors deemed important
by the city. Whether or not a pump is included shall not determine the number of
service connection fees charged.
7.
The following commercial residential dwellings shall be allowed to maintain multiple
living units on one or more sewer pump as expressly approved by the city:
8.
(a)
Mobile home parks.
(b)
Apartment buildings.
(c)
Hotels, motels and campgrounds.
All customers who are allowed to receive sewer service to multiple users through a
single sewer pump shall be charged commercial rates and a service connection fee
or tap fee shall be charged for each individual unit. In addition, the following
method of bill computation shall apply:
The total usage shall be divided by the number of units, then applying the
appropriate commercial rate for the amount prorated for each unit, including the
minimum bill, and multiplying the result by the number of units. The total bill shall
41
be the responsibility of the customer who contracted for the metered service.
Example:
(a)
Divide the total monthly bill by the number of units = prorated bill;
(b)
Figure the prorated bills for each unit as you would any other
commercial bill.
In effect, the utility charge for each such dwelling unit or business unit thus served will
have been computed as if each such unit had received service by separate meters.
Policy
Adoption Date:________________________________
Effective Date:________________________________
42
Service to Non-Owner Occupied Property
Background
Any customer seeking utility service shall be treated courteously and fairly by the governing
board, and staff. It is accepted utility practice in the United States that utility service is a
contractual relationship between the utility and the person(s) whose name(s) appear on
the application for service. The utility will furnish the same service to all customers,
regardless of their ownership interest in the property to which service is delivered, with
exceptions later detailed.
The utility's customer is the person(s) entering into an agreement for service. The
customer(s) shall be responsible for timely payment of all fees, rates and charges and
abiding by all policies and rules of the utility.
The utility is run for the benefit of all present and future customers, and while no customer
shall intentionally be treated unfairly, no customer shall be treated in a way that
compromises the interests of other customers.
Record Keeping Duration
All service application records shall be kept for a minimum of ten years after termination of
service.
Omissions
In the absence of specific rules or policies, the disposition of service to renters, lessees
and other non-owner occupied property shall be made by the city board in accordance
with its usual and customary practices.
43
Policy
1.
Any person(s) at least 18 years old who reside(s) or does business within the
service boundaries of the city may apply for service with the utility.
2.
Persons desiring wastewater service must apply in person at the business office of
the city during regular business hours.
3.
Each service application must include the following:
(a)
Applicant's name. The following persons must sign the application for
utility service:
(1)
Residential: Responsible adult residing in the dwelling
or landlord/owner of the dwelling.
(2)
Commercial/Industrial: Any officer of the corporation or
the landlord/owner of the building.
4.
Landlords may keep utility service in their name and pass the costs of service on to
their tenants by including it in the rent or by having the tenant pay the utility bill.
5.
Failure of Landlord to Pay or Attempt to Use Termination of Utility Service to Evict
Tenants
(a)
If the landlord fails to pay utility fees or bills on a timely basis or if
the landlord requests that utility service be disconnected in order to
evict the tenant or for other reasons, the utility will discontinue service
44
in the landlord's name after two business day's notice by either phone
or door-hanger notice to the occupants of the building. The utility
does not assist in evicting tenants. The landlord must use
appropriate legal means for that purpose;
(b)
In this case, the utility service contract is between the city and the
landlord however, since the termination of service to a dwelling or
building where an unannounced cut-off may cause an undue hardship
or endangerment to life or property, the utility deems it fair and
reasonable that two business days= notice be given to tenants in the
case where landlords terminate service that is held in the landlord's
name.
6.
Landlords are responsible for charges to properties where the landlord contracts
with the utility as a customer, regardless of who actually used the service.
7.
If the utility contract is between the city and the tenant, the landlord has no
responsibility for payment of the bill. In this case, a landlord's responsibility would
be that of any reasonable person in reporting on a timely basis the abandonment or
destruction of utility property by a tenant or other party.
8.
Upon proper application for service, tenants will receive utility service.
Policy
Adoption Date: _______________________________
Effective Date: _______________________________
45
Industrial and Commercial Customers
Background and Purpose
The needs of each commercial and industrial customer seeking service from the
wastewater system vary greatly and impact the wastewater system differently. Commercial
customers whose demand is small may be able to connect to the wastewater's system with
no addition to or upgrading of the city's system or other special circumstances. On the
other hand, the city may be required to add to or upgrade its system to serve an industrial
customer with a large demand. When the city's system must be improved to serve a
commercial or industrial customer, the cost of the system improvements to serve the
commercial or industrial customer shall be borne by that customer.
When the city determines that service to a commercial or industrial customer will require
additions to or upgrades of its system, service to the commercial or industrial customer
shall be governed by the policy covering Subdivisions and Developers, and the commercial
or industrial customer shall enter into a Developer Agreement with such customer in
accordance with that policy. In the event service to a commercial or industrial customer
may adversely affect the city's existing rate structure, the city may adopt appropriate rates
and charges for such customer so that the customer bears the added expense to the city
to serve that customer rather than the city's other customers.
Should the costs of construction be unusual or other unusual circumstances exist, the city
may modify or add to these procedures. In certain cases, to be determined by the city on
a case-by-case basis, the city may determine that an Industrial and Commercial Customer
Agreement negotiated to meet the needs of their particular situation is more appropriate
than a Developer Contract.
The Utility is run for the benefit of all present and future customers, and while no customer
46
shall intentionally be treated unfairly, no customer shall be treated in a way that
compromises the interests of other current and future customers.
Record Retention
All applications for service and contracts for service entered into between commercial and
industrial customers and the city shall be kept for a minimum of six years after the
commercial or industrial customer is no longer a customer of the city.
Policy
1.
All commercial and industrial customers shall submit an application for service with
the city in the form requested by the city.
47
2.
If the city can provide service to a commercial or industrial developer without any
additions to or upgrading of its system, the commercial or industrial customer shall
execute a contract for service and pay all applicable fees under the city's Schedule
of Rates and Charges to obtain the service.
3.
When the city determines that it must upgrade or make additions to its system to
provide service to a commercial or industrial customer, the commercial or industrial
customer shall comply with all the requirements for a developer in the city's
Subdivisions and Developers Policy. The commercial or industrial customer shall
enter into a Developer Agreement with the city in accordance with the city's
Subdivisions and Developers Policy.
4.
In the event that unusual circumstances exist and the board determines the City's
Developer Agreement is not appropriate for the industrial or commercial customer,
such customer shall be allowed to enter a separate "Industrial and Commercial
Customer Agreement," with provisions tailored to the needs of that particular
customer.
5.
Where the Board has determined it to be necessary to issue debt or to take from
the city=s wastewater reserves or to enter into an Intergovernmental Agreement for
debt for the construction of facilities to service the customer, the city may impose a
monthly surcharge to the customer that shall include coverage for, though not be
limited to, the following:
(a)
Debt repayment;
(b)
Required reserves for debt service;
(c)
Depreciation;
48
(d)
6.
Other: _________________________
The customer will be required to pay said monthly surcharge and will be required to
post a surety bond with corporate surety authorized to do business in the State of
Tennessee or to obtain an irrevocable letter of credit issued by a national bank or a
bank authorized to do business in the State of Tennessee to guarantee payment of
the surcharge for a period of _______________ years.
7.
The city may confer with its attorney during any of these procedures. Upon the
city's approval of the plans, specifications and other necessary information, the
same will be referred to the city's attorney for the drafting of a contract between the
city and the developer.
49
Policy
Adoption Date:_________________________
Effective Date:_________________________
50
Wastewater Service Connection Fees
Municipal wastewater connection fees are commonly charged to new customers based
upon the existence of a water meter or upon some other basis such as a per unit basis.
Some municipalities charge varying rates depending upon the size of the water meter.
Wastewater fees shall be fair to residential, commercial and industrial customers.
Service connection fees shall be based on the premise of one wastewater
connection for one customer.
The fee system shall require that the new customer pay for the cost of connecting
to the wastewater system.
Residential customers shall not be allowed to share a common meter or connection
to avoid the rate system designed for the recovery of capital and operating costs.
Commercial and industrial customers shall not be permitted to use a single meter or
connection to avoid capital and operating costs of the wastewater system.
All customers shall be required to pay a minimum wastewater service connection
fee.
This report will outline a procedure for a wastewater service connection fee, sometimes
referred to as a tap fee, based upon equity, the actual cost of making the connection, and
usage of the system.
The procedure will minimize the often ambiguous application of connection fees to
commercial and industrial buildings.
The connection fee procedure outlined in the report will treat residential, commercial
and industrial customers equally in terms of system usage, equity and cost.
The procedure provides flexibility in subsidizing new business development on a
case-by-case basis from the city general fund when the city determines it to be in
the public interest.
51
The report outlines a procedure that minimizes the need for future rate increases.
Equity
Service connection fees shall be charged as a means of recovering some of the costs for
prior capital expenses and for the actual costs of making the connection. When properly
applied, these fees keep the present ratepayers from paying the costs of adding new
customers to the system. It is a common practice to base part of these costs on
wastewater system equity. Equity represents capital costs that previous customers have
already paid for over the years in tap fees and other capital contributions. New customers
coming onto the system are required to make a contribution equal to the equity per
customer for customers already in the system. Fairness requires that they pay for or buy
in to prior capital costs of the system.
52
53
Following is an example of equity per customer:
-Assets June 30, 1999
-Liabilities June 30, 1999
Total Equity June 30, 1999
$11,330,869
8,429,243
$ 2,901,625
Equity per customer (Total equity divided by an assumed 3,961 customers) is $732.55.
Using this analysis the connection fee would be $732.55 as an equity contribution to
capital recovery. This represents previous contributions to capital made by present
customers.
Installation Costs
While the actual installation costs will vary from city to city, this example uses an
estimated installation cost of $1,085.08 when made in a paved area and $868.08 when
made in a non-paved area. The applicant for a wastewater connection permit may have
the option of employing a licensed plumber approved by the city to make the actual
installation or pay the estimated Wastewater System costs for the installation. Regardless
of the option used the installation shall conform to city standards and specifications. When
the applicant furnishes the installation, an inspection fee shall be paid to the city.
Additionally the plumber may be required to obtain a street cut permit to insure that the
street is properly repaired. Where an existing installation has already been made and the
piping has been installed to the property line, there shall be no further charge for actual
installation based on units. If only one physical service connection is made in the street
surface, no additional charge for installation shall be charged.
System Usage
54
In an effort to make the tap fee as fair and objective as possible a method based upon
commercial, industrial, and institutional water consumption requirements outlined in State of
Tennessee, Department of Environment and Conservation, Design Basis For New Sewage
Works is presented. (See attached tables). These consumption standards are commonly
used by engineers in designing water and wastewater systems. A city may, on a case-bycase basis, make adjustments in connection fees for targeting business growth. It would
seem appropriate that such adjustments be made with contributions from the City=s
General Fund so that the integrity of the wastewater rate system is maintained.
Now that the equity costs of the wastewater connection fee have been determined and the
actual installation costs have been estimated, it is important to address the application of
these connection fees to wastewater system customer usage. Using 100 gallons per day
of water per person and 2.5 residents per household, average usage is seventy-five
hundred (7500) gallons per month. Seventy-five hundred (7500) gallons per month
becomes the basic measure of usage associated with one connection or one unit. The
application of all other uses will be computed according to the above referenced design
standards.
Following is a list of standard water consumption requirements and examples of their
application to service connection fees:
Residential
100 gallons per day per person
Apartments and Condominiums
100 gallons per day per person
(Based on the number of meters or rental units)
Schools
16 gallons per person per day
(Based upon projected enrollment)
Churches
3 gallons per person per day
(Based upon membership enrollment)
55
Hospitals
300 gallons per bed per day
Nursing Homes
195 gallons per bed per
(Based upon the number of patients)
Commercial and Industrial
Industrial Plant
30 gallons per day per employee *
Laundry
5000 gallons per day *
Launderette
250 gallons per day per machine
Shopping Center no food
150 gallons per day per 1000 SF floor
Retail Store
150 gallons per day per 1000 SF floor*
Restaurants
20 gallons per day per seat
Motels
38 gallons per room per day
Service Station
10 gallons per day per vehicle served *
Theater
3 gallons per day per seat
Office Building
12 gallons per day per 100 SF*
Car Wash
1500 gallons per day per wash rack*
Physician=s Office
200 gallons per day per examining room*
Child Care Center
10 gallons per day per child and adult
*Community Water Systems, Fifth Edition, by Joseph S. Ameen, S.M., Sanitary Engineer.
Applications Example:
Example.
A 10,000 SF office building. The basic equity connection fee, as previously
calculated, is $732.50. The number of units is 12 gallons per day per 100 SF (from the
above usage standards) or 1200 gallons per day. Multiplied by 30 days in the month the
usage is 36,000 gallons per month. Divide this by the 7500-gallon base for each unit or
tap and 4.8 units are determined. To determine the connection fee multiply 4.8 times
56
$732.55 and add the costs for actual physical connection fees in the paved or surfaced
areas or areas outside paved areas.
57
The connection fee for an office building used in the above example would be as follows:
-
Installation by the customer
4.8 times 732.55 (equity fee)
Installation Provided by Customer
Inspection Fee (assumed)
Total cost of equity and installation
-
$3,516.24
0.00
150.00
$3,666.24
Installation by the City
4.8 times 732.55 (equity fee)
Installation provided by the City in Street
Total cost of equity and installation
4.8 times 732.55 (equity fee)
Installation provided by the City out of Street
Total cost of equity and installation
$3,516.24
1,085.08
$4,601.32
$3,516.24
868.08
$4,384.32
*Additional application examples are included as a part of this report.
Summary
This wastewater connection fee procedure allows the new customer to pay a share of the
capital and capacity costs of the system and pay the actual costs for making the
connection. It keeps the present ratepayers from paying the costs of adding new
customers and it minimizes the need for future increased wastewater rates. Although
these fee structures are more comprehensive than those used by many systems, they are
based on system costs and accepted design standards for wastewater usage. The
procedure requires that new customers pay their fair costs instead of relying on existing
58
customers to pay the costs. The service connection fee is the sum of the equity
contribution and the installation costs plus the standard usage factor.
*Wastewater Connection Fees- Additional Application Examples
Residential single unit - 100 gallons per day per person. Using 2.5 persons per
household for 30 days the monthly water usage is 7500 gallons. This monthly usage
represents one equity connection fee. The equity connection fee is $732.55. The cost of
actual installation would be added to this fee to establish the wastewater connection fee.
Apartments, rooming houses, condominiums, duplexes, triplexes, etc. - Each unit is
assessed a fee of $732.55. The actual cost of installing the connection is added to the
fee. These are treated just like a single residential unit.
59
Barber Shop - 100 gallons per day per chair. Using 2 chairs, 100x2x30days equals
6000 gallons per month usage. 6000 gal./7500 residential base usage equals.8
connections. The connection fee would be $586.04 plus the actual cost of installation.
Beauty Shop -125 gallons per day per chair. Using 4 chairs, 125x4x30days equals
15,000 gallons per month usage. 15,000 gal/7500 residential base usage equals 2
connections. The connection fee would be 2x732.55 or $1,465.10 plus the actual cost of
installation.
Dentist Office - 750 gallons per day per chair. Using 2 chairs, 750x2x30days equals
45,000 gallons per month usage. 45,000 gal/7500 residential base usage equals 6
connections. The connection fee would be 6x732.55 or $4,395.30 plus the actual cost of
installation.
Department Store - 40 gallons per day per employee. Using 4 employees, 40x4x30days
equals 4800 gallons per month usage. 4800 gal/7500 residential base usage equals
.64 connections. The connection fee would be .64x732.55 or $468.83 plus the actual
cost of installation.
Drug Store - 500 gallons per day. 500x30days equals 15,000 gallons per month usage.
15,000 gal./7500 residential base usage equals 2 connections. The connection fee
would be 2x732.55 or $1,465.10 plus the actual cost of installation.
Church - 3 gallons per day per member. Using 300 members, 3x300x30days equals
27,000 gallons per month usage. 27,000 gal./7500 residential base usage equals 3.6
connections. The connection fee would be 3.6x732.55 or $2,637.18 plus the actual cost
of installation. If the connection serves a separate building at the church an estimate of
the number of people who will use the building shall be used for the number of members.
60
Schools - 16 gallons per day per person. Using 300 enrollment, 16x300x30days equals
144,000 gallons per month usage. 144,000 gal/7500 residential base usage equals 19.2
connections. The connection fee would be 19.2x732.55 or $14,064.96 plus the actual
cost of installation.
Hospitals - 300 gallons per day per bed. Using 100 beds, 300x100x30days equals
900,000 gallons per month usage. 900,000 gal/7500 residential base usage equals
120 connections. The connection fee would be 120x732.55 or $87,906 plus the actual
cost of installation.
Nursing Homes - 195 gallons per day per bed. Using 25 beds, 195x25x30days
equals146,250 gallons per month usage. 146,250 gal./7500 residential base usage
equals 19.5 connections. The connection fee would be 19.5x732.55 or $14,284.73 plus
the actual cost of installation.
Laundry - 5,000 gallons per day. 5,000x30days equals 150,000 gallons per month
usage. 150,000 gal./7500 residential base usage equals 20 connections. The
connection fee would be 20x732.55 or $14,651.10 plus the actual cost of installation.
Launderette - 250 gallons per day per machine. Using 10 washing machines,
250x10x30days equals 75,000 gallons per month usage. 75,000 gal./7500 residential
base usage equals 10 connections. The connection fee would be 10x732.55 or
$7,325.55 plus the actual cost of installation.
Shopping Center - 150 gallons per day per 1,000 SF. Using 20,000 SF,
150x20x30days equals 90,000 gallons per month usage. 90,000 gal./7,500 residential
base usage equals 12 connections. The connection fee would be 12x732.55 or
61
$8,790.60 plus the actual cost of installation.
Restaurant - 20 gallons per day per seat. Using 40 seats, 20x40x30days equals
24,000 gallons per month usage. 24,000 gal./7500 residential base usage equals 3.2
connections. The connection fee would be 3.2x732.55 or $2,344.16 plus the actual cost
of installation.
Motel - 63 gallons per day per room. Using 50 rooms, 63x50x30days equals 94,500
gallons per month usage. 94,500 gal/7500 residential base usage equals 12.6
connections. The connection fee would be 12.6x732.55 or $9,230.63 plus the actual cost
of installation.
Office Building - 12 gallons per day per 100 SF. Using 10,000SF, 12x100x30days
equals 36,000 gallons per month usage. 36,000 gal./7500 residential base usage
equals 4.8 connections. The connection fee would be 4.8x732.55 or $3,516.24 plus the
actual cost of installation.
Car Wash - 1,500 gal per day per wash rack. Using 6 wash racks, 1,500x6x30days
equals 270,000 gallons per month usage. 270,000 gal./7,500 residential base usage
equals 36 connections. The connection fee would be 36x732.55 or $26,371.80 plus the
actual cost of installation.
Physician=s Office - 200 gallons per day per examining room. Using 4 rooms,
200x4x30days equals 24,000 gallons per month usage. 24,000 gal./7500 residential
base usage equals 3.2 connection fees. The connection fee would be 3.2x732.55 or
$2,344.16 plus the actual cost of installation.
Child Care Center - 10 gallons per day per child and adult. Using 20 persons,
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10x20x30days equals 6,000 gallons per month. 6,000 gal./7500 residential base usage
equals .8 connections. The connection fee would be .8x732.55 or $586.04 plus the
actual cost of installation.
Service Station - 10 gallons per day per vehicle. Using 75 vehicles, 10x75x30days
equals 22,500 gallons per month usage. 22,500 gal./7500 residential base usage
equals=3 connections. The connection fee would be 3x732.55 or $2,197.65.
63
Wastewater Line Extensions
Background and Purpose
In order for the city to serve the public and to comply with the regulations and laws of the
State of Tennessee and the federal government, the city shall adopt a policy dealing with
utility line extensions. The city=s governing board must set rates, fees and charges to
produce sufficient revenues to pay for operating expenses and to amortize the
indebtedness of the city. This policy is to be used for extensions to be made into a
developed area, not for new or planned developments. The city may require that
customers who seek an extension of the city=s wastewater lines pay their fair share of the
cost of construction of such lines. Should such cost of construction be unusual or other
unusual circumstances exist, the city may modify or add to these procedures. The
determination of unusual circumstances will be made by the city on a case-by-case basis.
The wastewater system is run for the benefit of all present and future customers. While
no customer shall be treated unfairly intentionally, no customer shall be treated in any way
that compromises the interests of other current and future customers.
Limitations
The city=s wastewater system is subject to various city, county, state, federal or other
governmental agency requirements and has no discretion to provide service in any manner
which would violate such regulations or requirements.
Record Keeping Duration
All records regarding line extensions shall be kept indefinitely.
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Omissions
In the absence of specific rules or policies, the disposition of situations involving utility line
extensions shall be made by the governing board in accordance with its usual and
customary practices.
Policy
This policy does not apply to extensions which are part of a new subdivision or
development.
(Option 1)
1.
Applicants seeking the extension of utility lines shall present to the city a petition for
extension of such lines. The petition shall include the following information:
(a)
Name, address ("911" address or street address), and phone
number of each applicant requesting service;
(b)
Name and address of nearest person that utility now serves;
(c)
Type of service(s) requested (residential, commercial, fire protection,
etc.);
(d)
A rough map with the approximate location of the applicant(s) to be
served;
(e)
Date service is desired;
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(f)
2.
Payment of any required petition fees.
Within _____ days of receipt of the petition, the manager or his designee will make
a preliminary estimate of the cost of the extension.
3.
Line extensions may be considered for construction when the governing board or its
designee determines an extension meets the following criteria:
(a)
The number of applicant(s) per mile is greater than _____ applicants
per mile;
(b)
The cost per foot per applicant of the extension does not exceed
$___ per foot;
(c)
Adequate capacity of the system or the line(s) to be connected to is
available;
(d)
The extension is judged to be operationally feasible;
(e)
Adequate funds for construction of the extension are available to the
city.
4.
If the proposed extension does not meet the requirements of paragraph 3(a) and
3(b), the applicant(s) may be presented with the following options at the discretion
of the Board or its designee:
(a)
Applicants may make an additional contribution in a specified amount
66
per applicant for construction;
(b)
Applicants may contribute labor, equipment and/or material to offset
the cost;
(c)
Construction may be delayed pending the availability of a grant;
(d)
The customer may enter into an agreement with the
city to install
the extension to the city's specifications and then on completion and
upon acceptance by the city, the customer(s) will convey the
extension to the city.
5.
When the criteria in paragraph 3 are met or when the applicants comply with the
option or options selected by the Board in paragraph 4, the applicant(s) shall:
(a)
Complete the city=s customer application or contract for service;
(b)
Grant the city the necessary easement(s) on their property;
(c)
Pay all fees and charges (tap fees, service charges, etc.);
(d)
Comply with the option or options determined by the Board or
its designee necessary to make the main extension.
6.
After the above is completed, the city will then have the extension designed and
installed in a timely manner.
7.
If for any reason not caused by the applicant(s) the project is not constructed, all
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fees and payments will be refunded to the applicant(s).
Policy
Adoption Date: __________________
Effective Date: __________________
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Subdivisions and Developers
Background and Purpose
In order for the city to serve the public and to comply with the regulations of the
Environmental Protection Agency and the Tennessee Department of Environment and
Conservation and other state and federal regulations, the city must establish rates, fees
and charges to produce revenue sufficient to meet all its obligations. The city=s governing
board must set rates, fees, and charges to produce sufficient revenues to pay for operating
expenses and to amortize the bond indebtedness of the city. The city will require that
developers who seek to profit from residential or commercial construction pay their fair
share of such costs. Should the costs of construction be unusual or other unusual
circumstances exist, the city may modify or add to these procedures. The determination of
unusual circumstances will be made by the city on a case-by-case basis.
The city wastewater system is run for the benefit of all present and future customers, and
while no customer shall intentionally be treated unfairly, no customer shall be treated in a
way that compromises the interests of other current and future customers.
Limitations
The city is subject to various city, county, state, federal or other governmental agency
requirements and has no discretion to provide service in a manner which would violate
such regulations or requirements.
Record Keeping Duration
All records regarding subdivisions and developers contracts shall be kept indefinitely.
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Omissions
In the absence of specific rules or policies, the disposition of situations involving service
shall be made by the governing board in accordance with its usual and customary
practices.
Policy
1.
The costs and expenses incidental to the installation, connection, and inspection of
city wastewater service facilities for residential subdivisions and commercial
developments shall be borne by the developer. In addition, the developer shall
indemnify the city from any loss or damage that may directly or indirectly result from
the installation of wastewater lines and other facilities by the developer for a period
of one year after city=s acceptance of the facilities.
2.
A developer seeking to obtain service from the city will submit to the city a
preliminary plat, which shall include the number, size and estimated cost of each
unit and any other information that will assist the city in making a determination of
availability of service.
Each plat shall show the number of units and size (single family, duplex, etc.) to be
served in the development. The developer or his assignee will be responsible for
obtaining all easements.
3.
Upon receipt of the documents required by Paragraph 2 herein, and the
determination that the development is to be pursued, the city may select to submit
the documents to its engineer for the preparation of plans and specifications or may
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select to accept plans and specifications submitted by the developer for review and
approval by the city=s engineer.
4.
The city may confer with its attorney during any of these procedures. Upon the
city=s approval of the plans, specifications and other necessary information, the
same will be referred to the city=s attorney for the drafting of a contract between
the city and the developer.
5.
Before any work is begun on any project, the appropriate contract shall have been
signed by the city and the developer. The developer shall notify the city of the
proposed starting date of construction and all progress thereon shall be reported
weekly to the city.
6.
The developer shall obtain all permits (building, plumbing, electrical, etc.) to serve
these facilities and shall comply with the requirements of all other governmental
agencies having jurisdiction. When the plan calls for the installation of mains under
streets to be opened and dedicated within the development, the developer shall
execute a Deed of Dedication to the city of 50-foot easements within which such
lines are to be installed or shall execute a deed conveying in fee simple the
property within which such lines are to be installed. The deeds are to be executed
before trenching for the installation of such lines. These deeds shall describe the
easements and property of reference in the book and page of the recorded plat.
7.
The city=s policies regarding the requirement of easements are as follows:
(a)
All system improvements including storage tanks, access roads, or
pumping stations and other facilities shall be constructed on
easements approved by the city or on property conveyed in fee
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simple to the city.
(b)
All easements shall be obtained by the developer or his agent.
(c)
All easements shall be shown on all final subdivisions plats before the
plat will be approved by the city.
(d)
Any easements that are required outside a proposed development
shall be obtained by the developer or his agent prior to the initiation
of system construction, except those covered in (e) below.
(e)
If a line within a public right-of-way must be extended to bring
service to a new development, the city may make application to
obtain the necessary
permission to use such public right-of-way from the state, county, or other
governmental authority having jurisdiction over the particular right-of-way.
8.
The developer will pay the city for plans and review fees related to water and
wastewater plans. After the city=s engineer has either prepared the plans and
specifications or reviewed and approved the developer's plans and specifications, or
the city has accepted said plans and specifications, the city will send the plans and
review fee to the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation for
approval.
9.
The city will approve a final plat provided:
(a)
all system improvements have been constructed and the plat
constitutes an Aas-built@ condition; or
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(b)
the developer gives the city a bond or letter of credit for 100% of the
construction costs of proposed improvements as estimated by the city
or the city=s engineer. The city shall hold the bond until all
improvements are constructed in full adherence to the plan or until a
corrected and amended plat is recorded noting all differences from the
original plan. No service shall be initiated within a platted subdivision
or development of any kind until either (a) or (b) above are
completed to the satisfaction of the city. The city, in writing, may
waive the bond for contracts under $25,000.
10.
Prior to the execution of a contract for over $25,000, the city shall require the
developer to post a bond with corporate surety authorized to do business in the
State of Tennessee or obtain an irrevocable letter of credit issued by a national
bank or a bank authorized to do business in the State of Tennessee for the costs
to construct the system improvements to serve the development. The city may
authorize reduction of the bond or letter of credit on the basis of certification by the
city=s engineer as to percentage of completion of the project as designed by such
engineer, with the bond to be reduced to 50% after the project shall be certified as
65% complete, reduced to 25% upon certification that the construction is 90%
complete and to 10% upon certification that the construction is 100% complete,
subject only to acceptance by the city.
11.
No utility lines or other facilities shall be covered prior to inspection and approval by
the city.
12.
Where private lines are permitted by the city and are not to be dedicated to the
city, the city=s engineer shall check and approve these lines.
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13.
Prior to the execution of the contract, the developer must pay all fees and charges
currently established by the city for the developer which may include but are not
limited to the following:
14.
(a)
All Tap Fees;
(b)
Connection Fees;
(c)
Storage Fees;
(d)
A Security Deposit or Non-Refundable Service Charge;
(e)
Plan Review Fees;
(f)
Other: ________________________________________________
Upon execution of the contract, the developer will make a non-refundable payment
to the city of 50% of the estimated costs of utility construction covered under this
contract for engineering, inspection, legal, and administrative expenses.
15.
The developer will be permitted to connect to the city=s existing lines provided the
lines extended to and throughout the development shall become the property of the
city free and clear of the claims of any persons or entities, except as provided
otherwise herein.
The contract entered between the parties shall operate as a conveyance of the
facilities when the same are installed and accepted without the necessity of any
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further writing, contract or deed; however, the city may also require a deed of
exchange thereof.
16.
The Board shall select one of the following options:
(a)
All wastewater pumps and appurtenances, and services will be
installed and purchased by the developer.
(b)
All service settings and services will be installed and purchased by
the developer. The developer will furnish a grinder pump or pumping
station approved by the city for installation.
17.
Each family residence or duplex shall be served with a separate meter of a
minimum size specified by the city.
18.
Apartment complexes or other types of dwellings or businesses shall be served by a
meter of a size approved by the city.
Policy
Adoption Date:____________________
Effective Date:____________________
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Customer Complaints
Background and Purpose
Certain utilities are required by state statute, and/or other rules and regulations to enact a
Customer Complaint Policy. Each utility must satisfy the particular statutes, rules or
regulations which govern it and must enforce such policy equally as to all customers.
Record Keeping Duration
All records regarding customer complaints shall be kept a minimum of 10 years.
Omissions
In the absence of a specific rule or policy provision, the disposition of situations involving
complaints shall be made by the governing board in accordance with its usual and
customary practices.
Policy
1.
Complaints concerning the availability of service, the quality of service performed,
the amount of a bill, and all other complaints may initially be made to any regular
clerical employee in the city's office or to the wastewater billing manager or public
works director.
2.
Regular clerical employees are authorized to make adjustments to bills provided the
clerical employee can ascertain that a bill is erroneous because of a bookkeeping,
accounting error or meter reading error.
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3.
The billing manager is authorized to resolve all complaints relating to the billing
office and the public works director is authorized to resolve routine field complaints.
4.
Certain customer complaints shall be maintained in a file or log designated
Customer Complaints. Such shall contain the name of the person complaining, the
date of the complaint, a brief summary of the complaint and a summary of the
action taken by the city in response to such complaint. The following specifies what
will be considered a complaint for purposes of logging:
(a)
Inquiries.
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1.
Inquiries not required to be logged - When the city receives
an inquiry by phone or in writing from a customer concerning
the routine operation of the wastewater system and such
inquiry is handled to the customer's satisfaction, such inquiry
shall not be considered a complaint under this policy EXCEPT;
2.
Inquiries which must be logged - All inquiries concerning water
pollution or overflow conditions shall be considered complaints
and must be logged.
(b)
Complaints.
All complaints must be logged - All complaints must be in writing.
Any Customer indicating the desire to pursue a complaint must submit
the complaint in writing to the office of the billing manager.
5.
The billing manager or the clerical employee acting on his behalf shall notify the
complaining party of the disposition of his or her complaint by telephone, electronic
mail, letter, or otherwise within ten (10) days after receipt of the complaint,
excluding Saturdays, Sundays, holidays, and any periods during which the billing
manager may be unable to act upon the complaint because of his absence from the
office.
6.
If the complaint is one which the billing manager or public works director is not
authorized to resolve or if the their action on the complaint is unacceptable to the
customer, the customer may request review by the board. At the complaining
party's request, the billing manager shall schedule the complaint for consideration at
the Board's next meeting and shall inform the complaining party of the time and
78
place of the meeting. The customer may appear in person before the board or may
request that the complaint be submitted to the board without his presence. The
customer shall be notified of the disposition of the complaint in accordance with
paragraph 5 hereof.
7.
When a customer or complaining party shall appear at a board meeting to make a
complaint without previously submitting the complaint to the billing manager or
public works director, the board may require the complaining party to present the
complaint to the billing manager or public works director in accordance with the
procedures set forth in this rule so the board may be fully informed of the facts
before resolving the complaint. In its discretion, however, the board may hear and
act upon such a complaint when presented.
8.
If the complaining party appears at a board meeting to seek review of a complaint,
the board may defer hearing the complaint until a subsequent meeting to allow an
opportunity to locate and prepare materials concerning the complaint.
9.
All notices, statements, requests and other communications from the wastewater
system to the customer shall be deemed properly given if provided in writing and
delivered personally, attached in plain view on the front or main door of the
customer's dwelling, or sent by U.S. Mail or by electronic mail. The customer's
refusal to accept such communication shall be deemed receipt.
Policy
Adoption Date: _____________________
Effective Date: _____________________
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Customer Discrimination
Background and Purpose
Some, but not all, utilities are subject to one or more state and/or federal laws prohibiting
discrimination. Utilities that receive federal financial assistance through Rural Development
or other governmental funding, grant or loan programs are subject to certain antidiscrimination requirements regarding the provision of services, programs or other benefits.
This policy is created to comply with those requirements.
Record Keeping Duration
Records related to the provision or denial of programs, benefits or services upon which a
claim of discrimination could potentially be based shall be maintained for one (1) year or
six (6) months beyond the date an individual receives a right-to-sue letter. For federal
financial assistance requirements, reference shall be made to the funding documents.
Omissions
This Discrimination Policy covers only customers and potential customers.
Policy
In providing its services to all persons within the service area who can feasibly and legally
be served, the UTILITY will not discriminate against any individual on the basis of his or
her race, color, national origin, physical disability, religion, age or sex.
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Policy
Adoption Date:____________________
Effective Date:_____________________
81
Meetings of the Utility Board
Background and Purpose
Cities in Tennessee are units of local government, subject to the open meetings law. This
so-called "Sunshine Law" specifies that all meetings of public bodies, including utility
boards, shall be held at specified times and places which are convenient and open to the
public. Such meetings shall be preceded by advance public notice.
Record Keeping Duration
All meeting records shall be kept permanently.
Omissions
In the absence of specific rules or policies, the conduct of city wastewater meetings shall
be determined by the Governing Board.
Policy
1.
The regularly scheduled meeting of the city governing board will be held at Luttrell
City Hall on the first Monday of each month. In the event that the regularly
scheduled meeting falls on a holiday, the meeting will be held on a day set by the
board.
2.All meetings of the Governing Board shall be open to the public.
3.Prior to each meeting the billing manager/recorder shall cause notices that include the
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location, day and time of each meeting to be advertised as follows:
REQUIRED BY CODE
(a) Printed on each customer bill.
RECOMMEND
(b)Published in a newspaper of general circulation in each county in the city's service
area.
4.Special meetings of the Board shall be called by the board secretary at such time as
may be fixed by the chairman or upon the written request of any two members of
the board. Notice of such meetings shall be given in writing to all board members,
stating the purpose of which the meeting is called, as well as the location, date and
time of the meeting.
At least three days prior to each special meeting the billing manager/recorder shall
cause notices that include the location, day and time of each special meeting to be
published in a newspaper of general circulation in each county in the city's service
area, unless the special meeting is due to an emergency.
In the event the urgency of a special meeting does not permit the publication of
notice in the newspaper, the press shall be notified, and notice shall be given by
posting in three or more public places, including one public posting in each county
served by the city wastewater system.
5. The chairman shall preside at all meetings of the board except that in his absence the
attending members of the board shall elect a temporary chairperson to preside at
83
any such meeting.
6. The secretary of the board shall be responsible for taking minutes of each meeting. In
the secretary's absence, the presiding officer shall appoint a person to assume the
role of board secretary for the meeting.
7. The proceedings of all meetings of the board shall be kept accurately by the secretary
and shall be verified and signed by the presiding officer. The minutes shall include,
but not be limited to, the following, as required by Tennessee Code Annotated 844-104;
(a) A record of persons present;
(b) All motions, proposals and resolutions offered;
(c) Results of any votes taken;
(d) Record of individual votes in event of a roll call.
8.The minutes of all board meetings shall be kept in well-bound permanent volumes and
shall constitute a permanent record of the board.
9. The order of business at all meetings other than special meetings of the board shall be
as follows:
(a) Roll call and determination of quorum;
(b) Reading of the minutes of the preceding meeting;
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(c) Reports of officers and committees;
(d) Unfinished business;
(e) New business;
(f) Adjournment.
Policy
Adoption Date: _____________________
Effective Date
_____________________
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Utility Records
Background and Purpose
Utilities in Tennessee must abide by the Public Records Act, TCA 10-7-101 - 606.
Generally, this Act requires that most utility documents must be open for public inspection
by any citizen of Tennessee.
The utility is run for the benefit of all present and future customers, and while no customer
shall intentionally be treated unfairly, no customer shall be treated in a way that
compromises the interests of other customers.
Limitations
The utility is subject to various state and federal regulations and has no discretion to
provide or withhold utility records in a manner which would violate these regulations.
Record Keeping Duration
There is no obligation to keep records of requests of utility records.
Omissions
In the absence of specific rules or policies, the disposition of situations involving requests
of utility records shall be made by the governing board in accordance with its usual and
customary practices, within the guidelines of state and federal law.
Policy
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1.
All state, county and municipal records... shall at all times, during business hours,
be open for public inspection by any citizen of Tennessee, and those in charge of
such records shall not refuse such right of inspection to any citizen, unless
otherwise provided by state law. [TCA 10-7-503]
2.
Public records... mean all documents, papers, letters, maps, books, photographs...
electronic data... sound recordings or other material regardless of physical form or
characteristics made or received pursuant to law or ordinance or in connection with
the transaction of official business by any governmental agency. [TCA 10-7301(6)]
3.
In accordance with state law, the following is an example of utility records subject to
public inspection:
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Customer Records
(a)
Customer bills and usage records;
(b)
Customer mailing lists;
(c)
Customer payment delinquencies, cut-offs and payment histories.
General Utility Records
4.
(a)
Minutes of meetings of the governing board;
(b)
Real and personal property records of the utility;
(c)
Purchases;
(d)
Accounting and bookkeeping records;
(e)
Plans, maps and engineering records;
(f)
Operations and safety records and reports.
Records which are not subject to public inspection include the following:
(a)
Records relating to drug tests of employees;
(b)
Records relating to an employee's treatment in a state or local
government Employee Assistance Program;
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(c)
5.
Medical records restricted by the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Prior to divulging any employee medical records, the board or its designee shall
consult with the utility attorney.
6.
Any customer or other state citizen requesting utility records will be provided them
at the convenience of office staff, or at least within three working days for all
reasonable requests.
7.
Original records are not to be taken from the utility office except by court authority.
8.
Photocopies of records will be made available by the utility at the rate of 50 cents
per one-sided page or as otherwise priced from time to time by the governing
board.
9.
Computer disc copies will not be made available to the public [TCA 10-7121(a)(2)].
Policy
Adoption Date:
Effective Date:
_______________________________
_______________________________
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Alternative Method for Discontinuance of Service
ORDINANCE NO.__________
AN ORDINANCE TO MAKE IT AN OFFENSE TO FAIL OR REFUSE TO
PAY THE SEWER BILL, AND TO PROVIDE REMEDIES FOR SUCH
FAILURE OR REFUSAL.
Section 1. It shall be unlawful, and a civil offense, for any person, firm, or
corporation, association, or any other person or organization, who receives city sewer
service to fail or refuse to pay for such service.
Section 2. The city shall have the following remedies in the event of the failure or
refusal on the part of any person, firm, corporation or any other person or organization
who receives city sewer service to pay for such service:
(A)
Collect the amount owed by such customer as a civil debt.
(B)
Cite such customer into the municipal court, and upon conviction,
impose a civil penalty as provided by law.
Each day a violation is
allowed to continue shall constitute a separate offense.
(C)
Termination of sewer service, as follows:
(1)
Written notice of the termination (cut-off) shall be given
to the customer at least five (5) days prior to the
scheduled date of the termination. The cut-off notice
shall specify: (i) the reason for the cut-off; (ii) the
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amount due, including late charges and any other
charges; (iii) the last date to avoid service termination
charges; (iv) notification that the customer has a right
to a hearing prior to service termination, and the
availability for special counseling for emergency and
hardship cases.
(2)
The employee carrying out the termination procedure
will attempt before disconnecting service to contact the
customer at the premises in a final effort to collect
payment and avoid termination.
(3)
Hearings on service terminations as provided for in
(1)(iv) above will be held by appointment at the city=s
sewer service office between the hours of 8:00 A.M.
and 4:30 P.M., on any business day, or at other hours
by special request of the customer. Such hearing shall
be conducted by the billing manager.
(4)
Termination will not be made on any day preceding the
day when the sewer department is scheduled to be
closed.
(5)
If the customer does make payment of the bill, or does
not request a termination hearing, the sewer department
shall proceed on schedule with the termination of sewer
service, as provided for in this section.
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(6)
Sewer service will be reconnected only after the
payment of all sewer charges, including late charges
and any other charges, or only after satisfactory
arrangements for payment of the same shall have been
made, plus the payment of a reconnection charge of
$___________.
Section 3. The city shall have the right to use the above remedies prescribed for
the failure or refusal to pay sewer bills collectively or selectively, and in any and all
combinations. In addition, the use of any or all of the above remedies by the city shall not
foreclose its right to use any other remedy that might now or in the future be authorized
under state law.
Section 4. This ordinance shall become effective after it or its caption is published
in a newspaper of general circulation within the city, following its final passage.
Passed first reading this ________ day of _________________________, 1999.
Passed second reading this __________ day of ________________________, 1999.
____________________________________________________
(Mayor)
_____________________________________________________
(Recorder)
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Policy
This policy does not apply to extensions which are part of a new subdivision or
development.
(Option 2)
1.
Applicants seeking the extension of utility lines shall present to the city a petition for
extension of such lines. The petition shall include the following information:
(a)
Name, address ("911" address or street address), and phone
(b)
Name and address of nearest person that the wastewater system now
number of each appli
serves;
(c)
Type of service(s) requested (residential, commercial, fire
(d)
A rough map with the approximate location of the applicant(s) to be
served;
2.
(e)
Date service is desired.
(f)
Payment of any required petition fees.
Within _____ days of receipt of the petition, the Board or its designee will:
(a)
Make a preliminary estimate of the cost of the extension;
protection, etc.);
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(b)
Determine whether adequate capacity of the system or of the
interconnecting line(s) is available;
(c)
3.
Determine whether the extension is operationally feasible.
If it is determined that the extension meets the above requirements, the applicant(s)
shall:
(a)
Complete the city's customer application or main
extension contract;
(b)
Grant the city the necessary easement(s) on their
property;
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(c)
Pay to the city the total estimated cost of the extension which shall
include, but not be limited to, the following:
(1)
All fees and charges (tap fees, service charges, etc.);
(2)
Cost of all materials;
(3)
Installation costs;
(4)
Cost of obtaining easements;
(5)
Engineering expenses; and
(6)
Any other costs involved in the construction of
the extension.
4.
On completion of the requirements of paragraph 3, the city will have the extension
designed and installed.
5.
Shall the actual cost of the extension be less than the estimated cost, the city will
refund to the applicant(s) the difference. Shall the actual cost exceed the
estimated cost, the applicant(s) shall pay the additional cost in accordance with the
main extension contract.
6.
If for any reason not caused by the applicant(s) the project is not constructed, all
fees and payments will be refunded to the applicant(s).
Policy
Adoption Date: __________________
Effective Date: __________________
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Policy
This policy does not apply to extensions which are part of a new subdivision or
development.
(Option 3)
1.
Applicants seeking the extension of utility lines shall present to the city a petition for
extension of such lines. The petition shall include the following information:
(a)
Name, address ("911" address or street address), and phone
(b)
Name and address of nearest person that the utility now
number of each appli
serves;
2.
(c)
Type of service(s) requested (residential, commercial, fire
protection, etc.);
(d)
A rough map with the approximate location of the
applicant(s) to be served;
(e)
Date service is desired.
(f)
Payment of any required petition fees.
Within _____ days of receipt of the petition, the Board or its designee will:
(a)
Make a preliminary estimate of the cost of the extension.
(b)
Determine whether adequate capacity of the system or of the
interconnecting line(s) is available.
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(c)
3.
Determine whether the extension is operationally feasible.
If it is determined that the extension meets these requirements, the applicant(s)
shall:
(a)
Complete the city's customer application or main
extension contract.
(b)
Grant the city the necessary easement(s) on their
property.
(c)
Pay to the city the total estimated cost of the
extension which shall
(1)
All fees and charges (tap fees, service charges, etc.);
(2)
Cost of all materials;
(3)
Installation costs;
(4)
Cost of obtaining easements;
(5)
Engineering expenses; and
(6)
Any other costs involved in the construction of
the extension.
4.
On completion of the requirements of paragraph 3, the city will have the extension
designed and installed.
5.
Shall the actual cost of the extension be less than the estimated cost, the city will
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refund to the applicant(s) the difference. Shall the actual cost exceed the
estimated cost, the applicant(s) shall pay the additional cost in accordance with the
main extension contract.
6.
If for any reason not caused by the applicant(s) the project is not constructed, all
fees and payments will be refunded to the applicant(s).
Optional:
7.
If within a/an _____ year period, beginning with the date the extension is
completed, service is provided directly from said extension to any property which
had not previously received service from the city, the city will collect from new
customers connecting to the line a prorated cost of the extension and shall refund
the amount collected to applicant(s) on the same prorated basis as payment was
made for such extension.
Policy
Adoption Date: __________________
Effective Date: __________________