Committee scheduled to discuss Regional Sewer District concerns

Reps. Don Lehe (R-Brookston), Eric A. Gutwein (RRensselaer), and Rich McClain's (R-Logansport) proposal to discuss regional sewer district problems will be heard during the Environmental Quality Service Council meeting at 10 a.m., on Sept. 7, at the Government Center South in Conference Room C in Indianapolis.

The committee chairman has dedicated 45 minutes to discuss possible topics such as developing mandates for sewer hook-up requirements and fair cost rates for residents required to connect to the sewer district.

"This has been a growing problem throughout the state," Gutwein said. "Many people already have sufficient sewer systems, but are being required to tap into newly developed systems.

"Costs have also become an issue," McClain added. "Rates are not equal and there is no recourse for customers as far as rates are concerned."

This meeting, as well as all summer interim study committees, is open to the public. Reps. Lehe, Gutwein, and McClain cordially invite anyone who is interested to attend. More information about Interim Study Committees can be found online at http://www.in.gov/legislative/.

"More oversight is needed on this issue," Lehe said. "We need to determine a fair rate plan and who needs to connect to new sewer lines. I have had numerous complaints from constituents concerning this issue and I hope that they will be in attendance to emphasize that better management is needed."