Connecticut House Bill HB05357

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/15/19
• Refer: 1/15/19

Caption

An Act Concerning Municipal Sewer Assessment Appeals.

Impact

If enacted, HB 5357 would facilitate a clearer pathway for residents and property owners to appeal their sewer benefit assessments on local levels. The requirement for municipalities to establish a board of assessment appeals for this purpose would likely lead to a more consistent handling of these cases, enforcing fairness and allowing for community input in municipal assessments. This bill could also set a precedent for how municipalities handle similar assessment appeals regarding other services, which may affect local governance strategies and operational oversight.

Summary

House Bill 5357 proposes an amendment to section 7-250 of the general statutes to require municipalities to permit boards of assessment appeals to hear appeals pertaining to municipal sewer benefit assessments. This legislation aims to formalize the process for individuals and entities seeking to contest their sewer assessments, thereby potentially increasing transparency and accountability in how these assessments are determined by local authorities. By allowing appeals to be heard, the bill could impact residents and businesses who believe they are being unfairly charged for sewer services.

Contention

There are likely discussions around the implications of this bill, primarily concerning the administrative burden it may impose on local governments. Critics could argue that mandating appeals processes adds to the workload of municipal boards, which might already be under resource constraints. Supporters, on the other hand, would advocate that fair assessment practices necessitate a robust appeals process to protect citizens' interests and ensure that charges reflect actual benefits derived from municipal sewer services.