In a recent government meeting, council members expressed significant concerns regarding a resolution aimed at addressing a substantial fee waiver for a developer associated with the Kmart housing project. The resolution calls for the Water Sewer Commission to rescind its decision to reduce a privilege fee from $1,509,000 to $452,000, a move that has raised questions about the commission's authority and fairness.

One council member highlighted that the original order establishing the fee does not grant the commission the power to waive it, suggesting that the decision may not be legally sound. The councilor emphasized the disparity between the financial contributions of local residents, who have collectively paid over $1,000,000 in betterment and privilege fees over the past 16 years, and the proposed waiver for a non-resident developer involved in a $300,000,000 project.

Another council member echoed these sentiments, advocating for equity in fee assessments, particularly for residents of Plum Island who are still paying their own betterment fees. This member questioned the fairness of waiving such a significant amount for one entity while local residents continue to bear their financial burdens.

The discussion underscored a broader concern about transparency and the need for accurate information to guide decision-making. Council members expressed a desire to clarify the facts surrounding the fee waiver and ensure that any decisions made are in the best interest of the community. The resolution will be referred to committee for further examination, with calls for legal counsel to provide clarity on the commission's authority and the implications of the fee waiver.