Luzerne Times

Apr. 19, 2024

MOUNTAIN TOP – Residents of the Glen Summit community in Fairview Township have been left in distress after receiving notices from the Mountain Top Area Joint Sanitary Authority (MAJSA) mandating the replacement of their sewer laterals. The unfunded mandate, part of MAJSA's $3 million sewer main project, has caused outrage among residents facing significant financial burdens and property damage.

According to Rep. Alec Ryncavage, residents are being threatened with costly maintenance or disconnection due to the mandated replacements, despite their current sewer laterals being in good working order. Ryncavage expressed deep concern over the situation, emphasizing the lack of legal basis for the arbitrary standards imposed by the authority.

Ryncavage, in collaboration with Sen. Lynda Culver, is actively working with affected residents and local officials to address the issue and protect residents' rights and financial well-being. The representatives aim to bring the community and authority together for a positive resolution.

The residents have been given a tight deadline to comply with the mandate, with Ryncavage highlighting the lack of prior communication regarding the drastic financial implications of the project. The situation has raised questions about governance over quasi-government bodies and the potential impact on residents across the authority's jurisdiction.

As the community navigates this challenging situation, Ryncavage and Culver are committed to advocating for the affected residents and ensuring that their concerns are heard and addressed by the appropriate authorities.