Another Resident Opts Out of Plausha Park Project

After speaking at several meetings about his request to not be included in the Plausha Park Water Company project, resident Dan Pagano was told his property could be deleted from the 61 properties affected.

The $900,000 water project involves residents who currently utilize the Plausha Park Water Company water system being given an option to connect to the township's water line for a connection fee, likely about $3,600, and possibly other fees that would be determined by an assessment. The township committee has authorized to borrow the $900,000, but, according to law, up to $600,000 of the amount could be funded by the affected residents.

Pagano wanted his property to be deleted from the property and the Plausha Park Water Company president spoke on behalf of the company in agreeing that there is no objection to the deletion of Pagano's property from the project. This is not the first time a resident has come to the township committee to ask not to be included in the project.

In February, 10 homeowners who drilled their own wells and were not initially members of the Plausha Park Water Company but were to be included in the project due to the potential added value to their homes The township committee gave the 10 homeowners the option of putting in curb stops at a cost of $1,500 each which would allow them easier access to the township's water supply should they choose to take advantage of it after the project is completed.

Township Attorney Bob Oostdyk said Tuesday he had been in touch with Plausha Park's attorney, and while he agreed that the attorney confirmed that Plausha Park did not seem to have objections to the deletion of Pagano's property from the project, he also cautioned that their attorney wants to ensure protection for all other homeowners who could be impacted by the deletion of Pagano's property. Pagano asked Oostdyk if he could comment on whether the township committee was prioritizing the issue.

"I think the township committee has certainly indicated to you that this was an important issue to them," Oostdyk said.

During the public hearing on the ordinance amendment, another resident questioned the benefit to him, as a homeowner, and the township for the residents connecting to the township water supply and for the assessment of the homes.

"This is a no-win for the township committee," Mayor Tim Braden said, adding that if the homeowner does receive a benefit from the project, the township has the right to assess their property.

Committeeman Jim Sandham told the resident that if he chooses not to utilize the township's water supply because he does not see a potential benefit, he does not have to.

"If you don't see any benefit, then you don't have to do it," he said.