Those who want to hook up to the New Hope public water system can save more than $1,600 if they do it before Oct. 15.
By: Linda Seida
NEW HOPE Property owners on South Main, Mechanic and New streets who want to connect to the town’s new public water system can save more than $1,600 if they do it before Oct. 15.
The Borough Council’s decision last week to waive the connection fee for three months piggybacks a move by the Bucks County Water and Sewer Authority to offer a reduced hookup fee for 90 days, according to council President Richard Hirschfield.
Before Oct. 15, residents can hook up to the new system for a fee of $1,500 paid to the Bucks County Water and Sewer Authority, and no connection fee would be charged by the borough. After that date, they’ll pay the utility $2,995 plus $125 to the borough.
"It’s a substantial savings," Mr. Hirschfield said.
Borough Manager John Burke reminded property owners they still must obtain a permit for the borough to conduct inspections. This permit is free during the three-month window of opportunity, he said.
Mr. Burke cautioned residents about the possible need to pay for a second permit and also pay an escrow in the event a right-of-way would need to be broached to install the connection.
"Some people’s lines are accessible," Mr. Burke said. "Others are along the state right-of-way and must go to PennDOT for a permit."
Other rights-of-way belong to the borough, he added. If property owners aren’t sure who the right-of-way belongs to, they can call Borough Hall to find out, Mr. Burke said.
A right-of-way permit could cost about $50. Escrow could amount to $10 per yard excavated, or between $100 and $500, Mr. Burke estimated.
The total would be determined by the town’s building inspector, he said.
Mr. Hirschfield wasn’t sure how many people are taking advantage of the waived fee. The borough sent letters to property owners to explain the offer, and "I assume people are starting to respond," he said.
No one is mandated to hook up to the system, however. Mayor Laurence Keller said the council decided against making it mandatory. Within a year, residents of the entire borough will have the option of hooking up as the remainder of the year should be done, he added.
The $6 million public system has not been popular with all borough residents or merchants. When the subject was broached by the council in 2001, it became the source of controversy as some residents and business owners spoke out against it. Some preferred their private wells while others objected to the cost.