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Residents question legality of rate change for Orwell water customers
Summary
Residents and attendees raised concerns that Richland reduced the Orwell water rate from $5.00 to $4.50 without a written addendum; town attorney and legislator said billing occurred and parties appear to have acted in good faith, but recommended a written addendum going forward.
Several residents and attendees raised concerns that the Town reduced the rate charged to Town of Orwell customers from $5.00 to $4.50 without a formal written addendum to the intermunicipal contract. Kern Yerdon said the change reduced revenue to Water District #2 and questioned whether proper procedure was followed.
Attorney Graham Seiter told the audience such changes sometimes occur informally when both parties act consistently, but he advised that "the best practice is to have changes in writing." Legislator Ed Gilson noted that Orwell has been billed and has paid usage charges, which complicates claims of unilateral action. The board said it would work with the town attorney to ensure any addendum or written agreement is completed if necessary.
