This FAQ will be updated throughout the project. If you have a question that is not listed below, please contact Public Works by phone at 269-216-5244 or email - publicworks@oshtemo.org
FAQ: What will this project cost me?
Answer: Connection costs have several components.
Public Connection Fee: $7,500 from the sewer main in the road to the right-of-way/property line
- Benefit Fee: $2,000 for a single-family home (1 benefit unit) *commercial properties will have more benefit units.
- Parcel Fee: $5,500 per parcel (same amount for all parcels, regardless of size or use).
Private Connection Fee: $5,000 to $7,000 from the right-of-way/property line to where the sewer exits the home.
- Contact local excavating contractors for a quote.
- Costs vary based on:
- Distance from the home to the road.
- Patios, decks, pools, fences, sheds, or other obstacles.
- Tree removal (ask your contractor if trees can be avoided).
- Location of existing interior plumbing.
FAQ: What are my payment options for the public connection fee?
Answer: You may pay the connection fee in full or enter a 40-year Installment Payment Agreement (IPA).
- A $500 down payment is required.
- The remaining $7,000 is financed at 3.375% interest.
- Annual installments are paid with your winter tax bill.
- There is no penalty for early payoff.
FAQ: When do I have to connect?
Answer: You will receive a notice once construction in front of your home is complete, including paving and testing. From the date on that notice, you will have two years to connect.
FAQ: How do I get connected?
Answer: Each property owner is responsible for hiring a contractor to connect the home to the new sanitary sewer. The Township website includes a list of contractors familiar with this work.
FAQ: Can I finance the private connection costs?
Answer: Most contractors do not offer financing, however:
- Assistance programs may be available through the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).
- The Township offers a Hardship Assistance Program.
More details are available on the Township website.
FAQ: Are mailboxes being relocated?
Answer: Mailboxes may be temporarily relocated during construction but will remain on your property. The contractor will typically replace the mailbox post during reinstallation.
There may be temporary disruptions to mail delivery. USPS has the option to place a hold for mail pickup at the nearest post office.
FAQ: What will happen to my trash and recycling services?
Answer: Continue to place your trash and recycling at the end of your driveway as usual. If your regular provider cannot access your property, the contractor will collect trash. There may be delays in pickup, so please leave containers at the road until they are emptied.
FAQ: How will emergency services respond to my property if I need them?
Answer: Public Works coordinates with EMS daily during the project to ensure access plans are in place for properties directly affected by construction.
FAQ: How is my connection point determined?
Answer: Prior to construction in front of your property, the resident project representative will provide a wooden stake for you to mark the location. The inspector or Public Works can assist with marking the location.
FAQ: How will bus stops be affected by construction?
Answer: Public Works shares the project schedule and timeline with the Kalamazoo Public Schools Transportation Department. KPS will adjust bus stops as needed and will notify parents directly of any changes.
FAQ: Will my yard be restored?
Answer: Yes, the contractor will re-grade disturbed areas, place topsoil, and seed.
Restoration may occur in the following season, depending on when work along your property is completed.