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Residents plead for relief as York Water readies connections in Mount Zion Water District
Summary
Residents told the board that mandatory connection rules tied to a 1985 agreement with York Water could force some homeowners to pay thousands for plumbing hookups; township staff say York Water expects the township to enforce its mandatory‑connection ordinance but staff will prepare options, including time extensions and repayment agreements.
Several residents from the Mount Zion/Druk Valley area addressed the board to describe hardship from the mandatory connection requirement related to the Mount Zion Water District and newly completed water main work. Luke Shupp said longtime property owners and older residents face severe financial strain and may not be able to afford required plumbing work to connect homes to the new main.
Township manager Mark and solicitor (James/Sanders) reported York Water told township leaders it will not amend the 1985 agreement governing the district and expects the township to enforce its mandatory‑connection ordinance. Staff outlined two options they can offer: extend the compliance window beyond the six‑month ordinance period (staff mentioned 10–12 months as possibilities), or the township could advance the connection fee to York Water and enter into a written repayment agreement with the resident so the township would be reimbursed over time. Staff clarified the standard York Water connection fee is $1,750 (adjusting by ordinance in 2025), and that the higher cost residents worry about is the private plumbing work between the curb box and their house, which can be substantially costlier.
Residents described construction timing and disruptions, alleged damage to sewer laterals by the contractor Kinsley, and emphasized that while the connection fee itself is small, the private plumbing and contractor costs to tie service to an older house can be unaffordable. Board members urged staff to assemble a package of options for the next meeting, including whether loan programs such as PENNVEST could apply and whether the township can administer repayment agreements for connection fees or extend the enforcement period for affected residents.
The board did not change enforcement policy that evening but directed staff to prepare more information for a future meeting and to work with residents who request assistance.
