S. 8851 Summary

• Creates a new public benefit corporation called the Seneca County Water and Sewer Authority governed by a 9-member board appointed by and confirmed by the Seneca County Board of Supervisors, with members serving staggered 3-year terms.

• Grants the authority power to acquire, construct, operate, and maintain water and sewerage facilities within Seneca County, including ability to purchase existing systems and issue bonds for project financing.

• Authorizes the authority to establish and collect rates, fees, and charges for water and sewer services, prepare water supply emergency plans, and enter into cooperative agreements with municipalities and other entities.

• Exempts the authority from taxation on real property and activities, though it may make voluntary payments to municipalities; bonds issued by the authority are exempt from taxation except estate and transfer taxes.

• Establishes that neither the state nor municipalities are liable on authority bonds, and provides bondholders with remedies including appointment of trustees and receivership rights in case of default.