Residents in Vassalboro, Maine are facing significant increases in their sewer bills, prompting a legislative hearing on L.D. 832, a bill that aims to reduce the debt of the Vassalboro Sanitary District. State Sen. Richard Bradstreet sponsored the bill in an effort to ease the financial strain on both the district and its customers. The district needs to pay back over $3 million in loans for a sewer replacement project completed in 2020.
Many residents, especially those on fixed incomes, are struggling to afford the higher sewer rates. Some are facing liens on their properties due to outstanding sewer bills. Residents fear losing their homes and are resorting to extreme measures to reduce their water usage. One resident, Megan McDonough, plans to testify before the committee and has heard heartbreaking stories from her neighbors who are struggling to make ends meet.
Vassalboro officials have tried to help, but are limited in their ability to reduce rates. The town has provided some funding, but the burden on customers remains high. Efforts are being made to explore other solutions, such as attracting investors to share the financial burden of the sewer system.
The hearing on L.D. 832 is scheduled for Tuesday, where $2 million in funding from the state’s general fund will be discussed. State officials believe that providing assistance to the district customers is necessary, as there are currently no programs in place to support these individuals. The hope is that the bill will provide much-needed relief to the residents of Vassalboro who are struggling with their sewer bills.
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