Background | Based on geographical boundaries, the City of Middletown and Town of Wallkill share a complicated arrangement of providing services to the residents of the region. The Arfman Tract Property, the subject of an intermunicipal agreement between the two municipalities, has allowed this arrangement. Historically, and continued through that agreement, these parcels, located within the municipal boundary of the Town of Wallkill, have been provided water and/or sewer service by the City of Middletown. Many of the parcels were developed in areas already served by water and sewer service from the City of Middletown although they were geographically located within the Town of Wallkill. Recently, several proposed development projects within or adjacent to the Arfman Tract have received approval for development and wish to move forward with construction.
Challenge | Prior to allowing construction to commence, the municipalities agreed that new water and sewer districts must be formed to consummate the district boundaries and formalize a number of past service arrangements to allow the City to continue to provide needed water and sewer services.
Solution | Our team prepared a Map, Plan and Report (MPR) for each district. The purpose of the MPR is to evaluate the needs and capabilities of both municipalities and sanction the connection of certain parcels within the previously affirmed Arfman Tract to the City of Middletown water and sewer system and formally create the Arfman Water and Sewer Districts within the Town of Wallkill. This report provides both the City and Town with information on key issues associated with continuing to deliver public water and sewer within the proposed district: historical background and precedence for district formation, boundaries of the proposed water and sewer districts, treatment facility for sewage that is collected, source of water to be used, general plan for any required capital improvements, estimated capital cost and operation and maintenance costs.
Result | Following the Town’s and City’s reviews of the MPR, a public hearing was held to address public comments, and the district formation was completed.