Amenia wastewater panel considers system for distributing costs among users

AMENIA — Preparing for a scheduled meeting with Laberge Group Engineering of Albany, the Wastewater Committee discussed details of a possible system for distributing costs among potential users at their meeting on Thursday, Sept. 5.

The cost distribution system, termed Benefit units, was included in the Map, Plan and Report document of 2009 prepared by Morris Associates, Engineering Consultants. Laberge is expected to produce a Map, Plan and Report document, but key to that report is an agreed-upon system for spreading costs among users.

Wastewater Committee chairman Charlie Miller reported that the goal is to have Laberge’s MPR in hand by mid-autumn, so that a petition drive can begin. Results of the petition drive will allow the creation of a wastewater district, an essential step before major infrastructure funding applications can be submitted.

During discussion, the committee agreed to the Benefit Unit system of cost dispersal as described by Morris Associates’ 2009 report. Under the system, Miller explained, a single-family home, zoned residential, would be defined as one benefit unit. A two-family home would have two benefit units, and so on. An undeveloped lot with up to three residential parcels, would be defined as one benefit unit.

Commercially zoned units would be assessed at one benefit unit for each 165 gallons of average daily flow.

Committee member Shannon Roback expressed concern that the added costs might result in landlords increasing rents for their tenants.

Latest News

Troutbeck Symposium 2025: the latest chapter in continuing a vital legacy

Participating students and teachers gathered for the traditional photo at the 2025 Troutbeck Symposium on Thursday, May 1.

Leila Hawken

Students and educators from throughout the region converged at Troutbeck in Amenia for a three-day conference to present historical research projects undertaken collaboratively by students with a common focus on original research into their chosen topics. Area independent schools and public schools participated in the conference that extended from Wednesday, April 30 to Friday, May 2.

The symposium continues the Troutbeck legacy as a decades-old gathering place for pioneers in social justice and reform. Today it is a destination luxury country inn, but Troutbeck remains conscious of its significant place in history.

Keep ReadingShow less
Roaring Oaks Florist launches self-serve flower market

Terence S. Miller, owner of Roaring Oaks Florist in the new self-serve area of the shop.

Natalia Zukerman

Just in time for Mother’s Day, Roaring Oaks Florist in Lakeville has launched a new self-serve flower station next to its Main Street shop, offering high-quality, grab-and-go bouquets from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week — including Sundays when the main store is closed.

Owner Terence S. Miller, who bought the shop 24 years ago at just 20 years old, calls the new feature “a modern twist on an old-school honor system,” with some high-tech updates.

Keep ReadingShow less
Third graders enjoy classical treat at Music Mountain

A string quartet opened the Bard Conservatory of Music program for Region One third grade students at Music Mountain.

Patrick L. Sullivan

Region One third grade students attended a chamber music concert by Bard Conservatory of Music students at Music Mountain Tuesday, April 29.

After expending spare energy racing around the Music Mountain lawn, the children trooped into the concert hall and took their seats.

Keep ReadingShow less