Moorestown Approves Increases For Water And Sewer Rates

MOORESTOWN, NJ — Moorestown Council gave final approval to increases for certain water and sewer rates Monday night. The final vote was 4-1, with Councilwoman Victoria Napolitano providing the lone dissenting vote.

Increases are needed following upgrades at the three water treatment plants as well as to the water main system has left the township in a position where it should consider raising water and sewer rates, Township Manager Tom Merchel previously said.

The increase in water fees looks to be about $57.90. This would bring the cost to $76. Sewer fees would increase by $124, up to $133, and the total overall increase would be $181.90, up to $209.

The rates would remain on the lower end compared to other towns in Burlington County, Merchel said. He said the township is experiencing a lag in collections, and he would like to have the new rates in place by April 1.

The township has been working on upgrades to the Kings Highway, North Church Street and Hartford treatment plants since unregulated contaminants were first discovered in the drinking water about six years ago. During work, the plants were offline and the township has been buying water from New Jersey American Water.

Not using the township's water supply is hurting. Additionally, revenues are not regenerating, and connection fees are down.

The last time there was a tax increase for the township's water and sewer budget was 2017. It has only been increased twice in the last 10 years. The township has separate budgets for water and sewer and general operating expenses.

Officials said they could revisit the increases after the township works out a new deal with New Jersey American Water, and after they track down the polluters responsible for contaminating the water supply.

Council also gave final approval to three other proposals Monday night. Two proposals concern changes to township code that covers alarms and fire protection and prevention. Those changes are noted in the proposed ordinances scheduled for introduction and can be seen here and here.

The final proposal sets forth changes in salary for certain part-time employees. Those changes can be seen here. Those three pieces of legislation were all passed unanimously.