New Jersey Senate Bill S3181

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 10/6/22
• Refer: 10/6/22
• Failed: 10/13/22

Caption

Establishes Mercer Regional Water Services Commission as oversight body over certain Trenton Water Works operations.

Impact

With the establishment of the commission, the bill aims to facilitate effective remediation of issues arising from Trenton Water Works operations. The commission will consist of 17 members, appointed to represent various stakeholders, including local government officials from the affected municipalities as well as members proficient in water utility management. The bill mandates regular meetings and requires transparency through public notice, maximizing community engagement and participation in oversight processes. This shift in governance structure intends to create a collaborative environment where public interests in water quality and service reliability are prioritized.

Summary

Senate Bill S3181 establishes the Mercer Regional Water Services Commission to oversee critical aspects of operations related to Trenton Water Works. This includes monitoring rate-setting, service quality, and infrastructure operations, ensuring that a safe, clean, and adequate water supply is provided to the municipalities served by Trenton Water Works, which include Ewing Township, Hamilton Township, Hopewell Township, Lawrence Township, and the City of Trenton. The bill stems from a history of violations cited by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection that highlighted the need for improved oversight to safeguard public health and service quality.

Contention

A significant point of contention surrounding S3181 is the authority it grants to the commission regarding the ratification of local ordinances that impact Trenton Water Works. Any such ordinance remains inoperative until reviewed and approved by the commission, which may raise concerns about local governance autonomy. Critics argue that centralized control could hinder municipalities' ability to address specific local needs effectively, while proponents contend that the oversight will enhance accountability for service quality and infrastructure integrity. Furthermore, the bill allows the commission to waive certain oversight responsibilities under specific circumstances, which may also be a point of debate regarding its implications for state regulatory practices.