Bill > S1475

This bill provides clarifications and modifications to Massachusetts laws regarding sewer system construction and assessments by cities and towns. The bill amends several sections of Massachusetts General Law Chapter 83, establishing new guidelines for how municipalities can implement sewer projects and charge for their construction and use. Key provisions include restricting municipalities from adopting sewer betterment charges after project completion, requiring formal votes at Town Meetings or City Councils for assessments, and specifying that such votes must include detailed project information and be recorded at the Registry of Deeds. The bill introduces a more structured approach to calculating sewer assessments, allowing for fixed uniform rates based on land frontage or area, and a uniform unit method that calculates costs per sewer unit (equivalent to a single-family residence). Additionally, the bill provides municipalities more flexibility in separating general benefit facilities (like pumping stations) from special benefit facilities (like sewer mains), and allows for different assessment methods for residential and commercial properties. The legislation also clarifies how sewer user fees can be calculated, potentially based on water usage, and allows municipalities to offer credits to property owners who maintain on-site water retention or filtration structures. Importantly, the bill ensures that all assessments and liens follow existing legal procedures and have consistent application across different municipal projects.

Government Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1475