LRSD Hears From Public On Rate Ordinances, Addresses Campground Rates
Lakeland Regional Sewer District held a special meeting Thursday, June 4, at the North Webster Community Center to finalize plans on rate ordinances, answer questions presented by residents and take action on construction contracts.
Board members expressed several times their relief in being able to finally take action on some items on the agenda. They also announced a target date to break ground, tentatively July 6 or 7.
On May 18 LRSD held a special meeting to announce rate ordinances, a much-anticipated portion of the project, and settled on a monthly fee of $69.95 per residential unit.
Board President Jim Haney opened the floor Thursday for comments dealing with the new rate ordinance only. Haney also provided a website, lakelandrsd.com, for those who may not have received a copy of the rate ordinances.
Resident James Harvey questioned the amount of time the grants from USDA would be offered, noting the project is scheduled to be completed in December 2016.
The board said the grant had already been awarded to the project, and any funding promised now would be readily available when payment time arrives. Members also noted that during the construction period of the multi-million dollar project, residents will incur a monthly fee of about $11.20 for costs associated with start-up of the system.
Diana Welker, owner of Barbee Landing, inquired about special rates unique to some types of businesses.
The board has only recognized one campground in the area, Pic-a-Spot, which will be part of a specific rate outlined within the ordinance. Pic-a-Spot is owned by Jack McDaniel, an LRSD board member.
Stew Lambert, owner of Pine Bay Resort in North Webster, outlined all of the government offices that considered him a campground, including the Indiana Board of Zoning and the Department of Health.
“By law, I can only be open six months out of the year,” said Lambert, who was frustrated with the year-round flat rate sewer fees. According to Lambert, he will incur a cost of about $3,220 per month in sewer bills for his campground.
“I am a veteran of the United States,” said Lambert, noting these costs would likely put him out of business.
Two residents stood up and thanked the board members for their hard work and diligence with the project, adding their enthusiasm for enjoying clean lakes.