By Ryan Lewis
Correspondent
JASPER, Tenn. — When Jasper took ownership of the Marion County waterline project in Coppinger Cove last year, city leaders thought they would be adding up to 40 new customers.
The recent news that only four customers had connected to the service so far and that Jasper was losing money on the deal sent city officials on a hunt for answers.
Several officials said they have spoken with some residents in the Coppinger Cove area and were told that the fees for a new connection are holding many people back.
To get connected to the new water line, residents must pay a $400 tap fee and a $500 capacity charge, officials said. Customers who live in houses also must pay a $50 deposit, while a mobile home requires a $100 deposit.
“The problem is they can’t pay the fees,” Jasper Alderman Paul Evans said.
Evans said some potential customers have suggested paying an extra $25 per month on their water bills to cover the fees.
Jasper Mayor Billy Simpson said he’s always willing to work with people who want city services.
“Anytime anybody comes into City Hall [wanting to connect to the water line], we have them sign a promissory note [to pay the fees],” he said. “We have never failed to work with them on tap fees and things like that.”
City Attorney Zach Kelly said it’s possible that low- to moderate-income families may not have to pay the tap fee, and it may even be feasible to waive the fee altogether.
Officials said they plan to examine the original agreement between Jasper and Marion County to see if there are ways to limit expenses for those who want to tie in.
Simpson said the board should have a clearer picture of the tap fee issue by its next meeting Jan. 10.
Ryan Lewis is based in Marion County. Contact him at ryanlewis34@gmail.com.