Massachusetts House Bill H4246

Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 11/15/23
• Refer: 12/28/23
• Refer: 1/8/24
• Refer: 2/8/24
• Engrossed: 3/4/24
• Refer: 3/11/24
• Engrossed: 8/15/24
• Enrolled: 8/16/24
• Chaptered: 8/23/24
• Passed: 8/23/24

Caption

Authorizing the town of Littleton to provide drinking water to the inhabitants of the town of Boxborough

Impact

The implementation of this bill can significantly enhance water access for residents of Boxborough. It allows Littleton to leverage its water resources to meet the needs of an adjacent community, which may help ensure fire safety and contribute to community health standards. Moreover, the bill stipulates that the rates charged to Boxborough residents shall not exceed those paid by Littleton residents for similar services, promoting equity in water service delivery among the two towns.

Summary

House Bill 4246 aims to authorize the town of Littleton to provide drinking water to the inhabitants of the neighboring town of Boxborough. This legislation allows Littleton to establish, maintain, and regulate a water distribution system specifically designed to serve Boxborough. The bill facilitates the construction of necessary infrastructure such as water mains and hydrants, thus enabling effective delivery of water for both fire extinguishment and domestic usage.

Contention

There may be potential points of contention surrounding this bill, particularly in relation to the financial implications of the betterment assessments required for water system improvements. These assessments will determine the cost distribution among property owners benefiting from the service. Additionally, the long-term nature of the intermunicipal agreements, which can exceed 25 years, may raise concerns about governance and accountability between the two towns as water supply and management evolves over time.