Stafford Council Reviews Ordinance on Water, Sewer Hikes

Stafford Township Council this week are reviewing a draft, proposed by Mayor John R. Spodofora, of an ordinance that would set up an annual review system that would "ensure that water and sewer rates keep pace with increases in the future."

Spodofora and other Council members said they are looking at a variety of options, after they passed an increase earlier this summer that led to spikes in third-quarter water and sewer bills for many residents and business owners.  This yearly-review ordinance is in addition to another ordinance that Council members are considering that

Councilwoman Joanne B. Sitek raised the issue during her report at the meeting, noting one letter that she and other Council members received from an older woman in town, whom was very concerned about the increase when she received her most recent bill.

"This woman notes that she is on a fixed income and their was really no way she could handle it," Sitek said. However, Township Administrator James A. Moran said he had spoken with the woman and she qualified for assistance, and he added many others in her situation may also be.

"I would assure people there are ways we can help, they should come and see me," Moran said.

Also, Spodofora mentioned during the Council meeting that he is working on a request for proposal to solicit bids for an energy aggregation program.