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Resident raises cost concerns as committee grants municipal consent for South Jersey Gas main line
Summary
Southampton adopted Ordinance 2020-10 granting municipal consent for South Jersey Gas to install a main gas line. A resident said earlier contact from utilities warned homeowners they could face costs; the resident was told contracts for service would be between the company and individual homeowners.
Southampton Township on Sept. 15 adopted Ordinance 2020-10, granting municipal consent for South Jersey Gas Company to construct and maintain a main gas line through township streets. The measure was approved after the public-comment period.
Pat Finlay of 207 Hawkins Road told the Committee that ‘‘previously PSE&G and South Jersey Gas contacted the residents of Hawkins Road about running a gas line that would incur a cost to residents.’’ The resident’s statement raised concerns among neighbors about potential future connection or hookup charges.
Attorney George Morris addressed that concern during the public comment period, saying, ‘‘the Ordinance only permits South Jersey Gas to install the main gas line. Any contracts would be between South Jersey Gas and the residents.’’ His clarification was recorded in the meeting minutes.
Following comment, Committeeman Ronald Heston moved to adopt the ordinance and Committeewoman Elizabeth Rossell seconded. The Committee voted to adopt the measure on a roll call vote.
The ordinance grants municipal consent for the utility to install main distribution infrastructure; it does not set terms for later homeowner hookups or private contracts. The committee did not record additional conditions or a municipal contract addressing resident costs at the meeting.
The Committee moved on to other agenda items after adoption.
