Patricia Alford has lived in Jefferson Township in Carroll County for the past 12 years. She was aware of her properties' inclusion in the Twin Lakes Regional Sewer District (TLRSD) and was a founding member of the Free Jefferson Township Citizens (FJTC). However she stayed in the background and let the more vocal FJTC representative Pat Robertson speak for her and the group.

Alford is now stepping forward to actively oppose the sewer district and more specifically, the board of directors and the decisions they make on behalf of the customers. Alford said Friday those who spend public money should be voted into office, not appointed as currently allowed for by Indiana Code. She said for residents to be forced to connect to a sewer district and pay monthly service fees determined by an appointed board of directors is taxation without representation.

"This becomes a little ridiculous," she said. "They do nothing but hassle you. It's going to be their way and that's all."

Alford decided to fight the sewer district by refusing to pay the monthly bills for service. The district placed a lien on her property, which was reflected on her property taxes after she paid them for 2008. She received a second tax statement for both the spring and fall installments.

Alford said it was worth the cost of a penalty to keep money from the sewer district for part of the year. She said she would to do the same thing until another lien is placed on her property at which time she will pay the bill and the penalty. She encouraged all TLRSD customers to do likewise, even though the end result will be a paid bill.

"I swear to God, there's got to be justice," Alford said in desperation. "As long as my septic is in good working order, why do I have to connect?"

Alford said she understands the Indiana Code allowed for the sewer district to be established. She understands her representatives in Indiana government must work to change the law for change to happen for her and the members of FJTC.

"The commissioners at the time were tricked into this," she said. "But people make the law and people can change the law."

Robertson said two bills have been introduced in this legislative session limiting the power of sewer districts.

HB1114, introduced by Rep. Cheatham from North Vernon, would stop forced connection to sewer districts in unincorporated areas.

SB266, introduced by Sen. Krause of Auburn, calls for sewer district boards to be elected rather than appointed.

Both bills are in committee for discussion. Robertson said the sewer district issue is not just a Carroll County problem - it is a statewide concern. She said there is a petition requesting the dissolution of the TLRSD in the governor's office currently under review. She said anyone wishing to contact the group could E-mail them at fjtc1160@yahoo.com.

Robertson and Alford said they will attend Saturday's Third House session in Monticello to discuss the situation with Sen. Brandt Hershman and Rep. Rich McClain.

"It looks bleak because they have beaten everyone down," Alford concluded. "But it's not over."

"Stand up for your rights," she challenged all other customers who oppose the sewer district. "I'm not paying - I'm never going to pay them."