Authority to collect fees on undeveloped lots in subdivisions

More than 400 owners of developed but un-built-upon lots in subdivisions like Traditions of Braselton will soon face a new monthly fee.


The Jackson County Water and Sewerage Authority voted Thursday night to enforce a clause in its contracts with developers to charge a $10 monthly sewer maintenance fee on lots that have sewer connections but have been idle for three years.

Engineer Fred Alke explained that when the sewage collection system is installed in a subdivision, plastic stubs are set in each yard marking the point where the house will connect to the county system.

“Those things get hit by bush hogs and we’ve had a couple that got melted in grass fires,” Alke said. “When they open, rainwater, mud, debris, stones get in the system and head to the (treatment) plant… In some instances, dirt and stone will fill up sewer lines, then you have a massive cleanout.”

The maintenance fee, which is standard for sewer providers, according to Alke, covers the expense of inspecting the stubs and correcting any problems.

“It should not be a burden on our other customers to maintain a lot for the developers,” Alke said.

Collecting the fees at a time when many developments are in foreclosure could be a challenge.

For example, the estimated 400 lots on which fees may be assessed do not include two subdivisions in Pendergrass that are entangled in legal maneuvers, according to Alke.

“Pendergrass Depot is in the hands of the FDIC. Pendergrass Townhomes is in litigation between the foreclosing banks and the owners,” he said. “We’re a little sketchy on who the owner is, whether they (FDIC) become the owner or they’re a government middleman. The contract talks about the owner/developer.”

Combined, the two have almost 400 lots.

“Of the others, quite a few are in Traditions. The rest are spread out,” Alke noted.