The purpose of this article is to set forth
the principles for the imposition of sewer connection fees and to
set forth the formulas and rates for the computation of the connection
fees.
A. This article applies when three conditions have been
met. First, a new physical connection to the system is made either
directly at the main or indirectly on the property. Secondly, there
is an impact on the system as a result of increased water demand or
sewer flow for the property. Thirdly, there is an increase in the
number of new connectors or users on the property.
B. This article shall not apply to a change in use within
an existing structure unless all three conditions referred to above
have been met.
As used in this article, the following terms
shall have the following meanings unless the context clearly indicates
that a different meaning is intended.
EQUIVALENT DWELLING UNIT
The unit utilized in this article to equate sewer users with
different uses, being the imputed average daily flow of sewage from
the average single-family residence within the Borough, to produce
the number of service units to be attributed. For the purpose of this
article, one EDU shall be 250 gallons per day.
SEWER CONNECTION FEE
The fee required from a new connector to the sewer utility,
representing a fair payment toward the total capital cost paid for
developing the sewer system.
SEWER SERVICE UNIT
In attributing service units to each connector, the estimated
average daily flow of sewage for the new connector shall be divided
by 250 gallons, which represents the equivalent dwelling unit.
A connection fee shall be imposed for each sewer
connection, based on the sewer connection rate set forth herein and
the total number of equivalent dwelling units attributed to a connector
set forth in the schedule, or the total number of service units attributed
to a connector when the schedule does not apply.
The connection fee imposed shall be payable
to the Borough of Garwood at the Garwood Municipal Building prior
to the issuance of a construction permit and shall be deemed a prior
approval.
When a business, structure or use is described
in the Schedule of Equivalent Units, the connection fee shall be computed
by applying the number of gallons per day projected for the use to
the number of gallons per day 250 for an EDU, and multiplying the
number of EDUs by the sewer connection rate set forth herein.
When a business, structure or use is not described
in the Schedule of Equivalent Units, the connection fee shall be computed
by multiplying the number of service units attributed to each connector
by the sewer connection rate or water connection rate set forth herein.
In the event a business, structure or use is
not described in the Schedule of Equivalent Units, the owner or developer
shall provide to the Borough Engineer a certification from an engineer
for the average daily projected sewer flow for each business, structure
or use. The water connection fee and the sewer connection fee shall
be calculated based on the certification provided in accordance with
the above formulas, subject to the approval of the Borough Engineer.
If the Borough Engineer does not approve of the quantity proposed,
the Borough Engineer's determination as to the quantity shall determine
the average daily projected sewer flow.
Where a building or structure is to be occupied
by more than one residential, commercial or industrial use or establishment,
or any combination thereof, the connection fee imposed shall be determined
by applying the aforesaid schedule or formula for each residential,
commercial, industrial or other use or establishment located thereon.
[Amended 6-8-2023 by Ord. No. 23-12]
The sewer connection rate for each equivalent
dwelling unit (EDU) or sewer service unit is hereby established at
$2,500.