Kendall studies creation of more water districts

At a recent public hearing which more than 150 people attended, Town of Kendall officials gauged public response to furthering the town's water districts.

"We're looking at seven separate extensions to existing water districts," Supervisor John Becker said. "Because of the potential cost, we need a clear indication from residents as to whether they want water at their residences."

Early cost estimates put the district fee at about $700 per home involved in the district. Because New York sets a threshold of $575 per household for water districts, decisions on the proposed water installation would have to gain state approval, Becker said.

"Debt service would be about $540 annually with the difference of the bill being made up by that particular home's annual water usage which could bring the bill to $700 per year," he said.

Residents walked out of the public hearing with petitions to take back to their neighbors for signature if they are interested in participation in the creation of water districts.

"Once we get the petitions back then we'll have a clear indication of how many people really want water and what it will cost," he said.

Becker said the public hearing and the handing out of the petitions was step one on a long process. "The town board needs to hear from the residents that they want us to proceed," he said.