Title: An act relating to collection of delinquent water-sewer district charges.

Brief Description: Limiting collection of delinquent water-sewer district charges.

Sponsors: Senator Benton.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Government Operations & Elections: 2/10/05.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS & ELECTIONS

Staff: Diane Smith (786-7410)

Background: When water-sewer usage or connection charges, or both, remain unpaid, water-sewer districts have recourse against the property and the property[rsquo ]s owner. Together with penalties of up to 10 percent of the charges or rates and interest of up to the prime lending rate plus four percentage points, the charges and rates become a lien against the property, subject only to the lien for general taxes. The district[rsquo ]s commissioners may provide by resolution for any length of time for which the delinquencies may accumulate before the district certifies the delinquencies to the county auditor.

At any time after delinquencies accrue for at least 60 days, the district may foreclose upon the property in superior court.

At any time after delinquencies accrue for at least 30 days, the district may cut off service.

Summary of Bill: The maximum length of time for which water-sewer charges may accrue and still be recoverable by the district is 12 months. Service may not be cut off for charges that are delinquent for more than 12 months, or that are more than 12 months past due.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.

Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.