The Argos Town Council members reviewed an ordinance last week that would require mandatory payments for utility services as provided and offered by the Town of Argos.
Clerk-Treasurer Lisa Mullaney explained that the town would adopt a policy that is followed by other municipalities.
“Based on their ordinances we have created an ordinance that would make it so that even if you have your utilities disconnected, you would still pay the minimum amount,” said Mullaney. “It’s to make sure that every home in Argos contributes a fair amount to the general maintenance of the utilities that are provided.”
She said a minimum payment would need to be paid at a residence at all times.
If a renter does not notify the town of a disconnection, the minimum amount follows them until that notice has been given. It does not automatically shift to the property owner.
She added that the utility rate studies are based on the total number of connections there are in the Town of Argos and all connections should be captured to be a part of the study.
Mullaney said the ordinance also affects those who leave the area during the winter. “It also eliminates the snow bird ordinance which would allow people that have dual houses not to pay the sewer during that time.”
If the house is deemed vacant, other measures can be taken. The Clerk’s Office will work with community members on a case-by-case basis.
After a lengthy discussion, the town council suspended the rules and unanimously approved the ordinance on all three readings.
