Sticking it to homeowners

I’ve heard rumblings about the Metropolitan District Commission’s need to make upgrades to its outdated water and sewer system.  I’m not naive enough to think that as a homeowner in the area served by the MDC, I wouldn’t have to pay something.  But when I read this morning’s Hartford Courant, http://www.courant.com/news/local/hc-mdcmess1021.artoct21,0,7618382.story?coll=hc-headlines-home, I almost fell out of my chair – the project is expected to cost $1.6 Billion over the next decade.  Yes, that’s $1.6 Billion.

I agree that something needs to be done but if we’re starting at $1.6 Billion, this project in the hands of spoiled bureaucrats will surely swell far above the projected costs.  Connecticut is not known for efficiently handling and spending taxpayers money and ensuring we get what we pay for (I can think of a few recent examples – UCONN’s building program, Route 84).

In addition, the MDC is proposing that paying for the project be tied to property taxes.  According to the article:

Under the property tax method, for example, an average household in Hartford would pay $319 by 2016, while a West Hartford family would pay $771, MDC estimates show.

But the burden would shift if MDC water customers ended up subsidizing the project. In that case, a Hartford family in 2016 would pay $468, while a West Hartford household would pay $697.

Add this cost to already burdensome property taxes and homeowners throughout the MDC’s service area are clearly being hit where it hurts – our already shrinking wallets.  And it won’t just be homeowners – renters will pay too because no landlord will absorb this increase. 

The issue will be put to referendum in the member towns without voters knowing the full story – there are several other ideas on the table regarding how to fund this massive project.  Stay tuned for more details.