Conklin officials press Joint Sewage Board over higher outside‑user rates and 30‑year extension

Town Supervisor James Finch told the Board that the Binghamton‑Johnson City Joint Sewage Treatment Board has proposed raising charges to outside users, prompting immediate scrutiny from Conklin.

Finch said the Joint Board sought a 30‑year contract extension and was seeking significant rate increases, while noting the Joint Board also faces DEC citations and significant post‑flood repair costs. "The Joint Board wants a 30‑year extension of the contract, but the Town of Conklin has the right to negotiate," Finch said. He said outside users may be rebated for earlier overcharges but that the Board is reviewing whether the Joint Plant can accept additional flow from Conklin if the Town expands sewer collection in the future.

The Town authorized an engineering study under a CWSRF planning grant to analyze options for expanding or building treatment capacity nearer the southern end of Conklin and the Broome Corporate Park. The study will provide data Conklin officials said they need before committing to long‑term contract terms with the Joint Sewage Board.