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Smithfield signs on to countywide MOU to keep talking about regional water and sewer options
Summary
The council authorized the mayor to sign a memorandum of understanding allowing Smithfield to continue participating in countywide discussions about a possible regional water/sewer authority. The MOU creates a non‑binding framework for study and discussion; council members stressed preserving town control and asset ownership.
The Town of Smithfield will join other municipalities and the county in a memorandum of understanding to continue exploring a regional water and sewer collaboration, the council decided at its meeting.
Town Manager Mike Stentz presented the non‑binding memorandum of understanding, which staff said allows jurisdictions to remain at the table while the group evaluates options for joint sourcing, treatment, distribution and other forms of cooperation. The MOU does not commit the town to fund or join a regional authority; it authorizes participation in further study and discussion.
Why it matters: Council members noted that regionalization may offer benefits for communities that lack capacity, but several members cautioned that any future authority should not require the town to surrender ownership or control of its existing water assets without careful analysis. Council members asked that staff ensure Smithfield’s interests — including capacity, rates and long‑term planning — remain protected if discussions move beyond study.
Council action: The council voted to adopt the memorandum of understanding to continue collaborative study; no budget appropriation was required at this time. Town Attorney and staff will review next steps if the group seeks consultants or options requiring financial commitment.
Next steps: The MOU enables the group to work with consultants and continue joint planning steps. Any decision to form an authority, seek funding or change service arrangements would return to each participating governing body for formal approval.
