September 19, 2003

County Executive Takes Steps in Securing Water System for Beekman Residents

Dutchess County Executive William Steinhaus and Chairman of the Water and Wastewater Authority Thomas LeGrand announced an agreement in principal with the Town of Beekman and the owners of the Dalton Farms Water and Sewer for acquisition of its water and sewer system that will benefit residents.

In making the announcement County Executive Steinhaus said, “The infrastructure already in place at Dalton Farms is of great importance to the Beekman area. The users are looking for a continuation of reliable water and sewer service while maintaining tight control on costs.”

County Executive Steinhaus especially noted the work of Thomas LeGrand, Chair of the Water and Wastewater Authority. “Tom has taken a personal interest in this project,” he said, “and he has negotiated with the current owners on behalf of the County Water and Wastewater Authority.”

LeGrand pointed out that acquisition of the Dalton Farms water and sewer system is consistent with the County’s Master Plan for infrastructure. “County Executive Steinhaus is extremely supportive and has encouraged the Authority’s efforts to work with communities to enhance the overall water and sewer infrastructure in the county,” said Mr. LeGrand. “This is a well designed and maintained system and we will continue to manage the utilities with the highest technical standards and fiscal prudence.”

The Authority began negotiations with USX Corp., the parent company of Farms Water and Farms Sewer last year to acquire the existing water and sewer systems to support development patterns also promoted in the Town of Beekman’s Master Plan. It has been USX Corp.’s intention to get out of the utility business by selling existing facilities. Should all required public approvals go through, 462 current residential customers and 6 community facilities at Dalton Farms will continue to benefit from the water and sewer service and in Poughquag, 24 residences and businesses will benefit from the existing system. In addition, plans for 63 additional residences under construction at Dalton Farms will be connected to the Dalton Farms water and sewer system as well as the proposed residential developments at Plum Court and Victoria Estates.

“Completing the deal with USX, Corp. will ultimately benefit the residents of Dalton Farms,” said Town Supervisor John Adams. “The agreement in principal is encouraging because the County, in particular the Water and Wastewater Authority has the experience and cooperative attitude needed to make the long-term management successful,” added Adams.

It will take an estimated six to eight months to complete the transfer of ownership from USX to the Dutchess County Water and Wastewater Authority.

 

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