Res. No. 1001
Resolution calling upon the New York State Legislature to pass and the Governor to sign, A.02672 / S. 4369 and A. 03725/ S. 01394, legislation that would amend the Public Authorities Law and make reforms to the New York City Water Board.
By Council Members Halloran, Fidler, James, Williams, Nelson and Rose
Whereas, The New York City Water Board ("Water Board") establishes rates and distributes the collected revenues of the water and sewer system of the City of New York; and
Whereas, Since 2007, the Water Board has consistently raised water rates by double or near double digits percentages; and
Whereas, On July 1, 2011 the Water Board raised rates by an additional 7.5%; and
Whereas, Legislation has been introduced in the State Legislature, A. 02672 and S. 4369, which would amend the Public Authorities Law to require that all rates, fees, rents or other charges established by the Water Board increase by no more than 5% annually or the current rate of inflation, whichever is greater; and
Whereas, This bill would protect homeowners, building owners and businesses throughout the City of New York from significant annual increases to their water rates; and
Whereas, The Water Board consists of seven board members, who are appointed by the Mayor; and
Whereas, Legislation has been introduced in the State Legislature, A. 03725 and S. 1394 which would amend the Public Authorities Law to require that three of the seven Water Board members be appointed by the Mayor, three be appointed by the Speaker of the City Council and one by the City Comptroller; and
Whereas, This legislation would give appointing power to two other offices of city government, providing for greater government accountability; and
Whereas, Because the Water Board sets rates for water and sewer fees charged to all building owners, home owners, and businesses in New York City, these individuals and entities should be protected from excessive rates and be provided with greater government accountability; now, therefore, be it
Resolved, That the Council of the City of New York calls upon the New York State Legislature to pass and the Governor to sign, A. 02672 / S. 4369 and A. 03725/ S. 01394, legislation that would amend the Public Authorities Law and make reforms to the New York City Water Board.
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LS 2325
8/8/11