Eastsound Sewer and Water District has finalized a new policy that will help low-income homeowners.

Last week sewer commissioners approved a resolution that allows qualifying low-income residential property owners to defer the cost of hooking up to the sewer system for 15 years.

Board chairman Ed Sutton said that it has been the goal of the district to complete connection of all developed properties within the Eastsound urban growth area in order to protect the community’s water supply and comply with the state Growth Management Act. Most of those properties are on the West side of Eastsound, and, in most cases, the properties are served by existing septic drainfields.

Sutton said the commissioners have been sensitive to the financial burden placed on property owners, and recently determined that state law allows deferral of connection charges to sewer systems for qualifying property owners. The qualifications for “low-income” will be the same that the county uses.

“We were stunned to find out it was possible,” Sutton said.

Another district policy will allow monthly payments for the cost of installation at minimal interest rates.

Sutton told the Sounder that it’s important for homeowners to get on board now, because the cost of hooking up, which is currently $6,000, will most likely increase by 2010 due to capital expenditures for expanding the sewer facility.

“If they sign an agreement now, it freezes the cost at $6,000,” Sutton said.

ESWD hopes this will be a huge relief to homeowners, many of whom balked at paying the full price upfront. Coincidentally, many had asked for 15 years to save up the money, which is exactly what they’ll be getting.

The hook-up cost will need to be paid in full if the property is sold, transferred, refinanced or foreclosed, or if the income qualifications are no longer being met.

The policy is in effect now, and the district will soon be corresponding with property owners not currently connected to the sewer system.

“We feel it’s a very fair and equitable way to accomplish our objectives as commissioners but also give financial help,” Sutton told the Sounder.

The ESWD board also approved an $11 per month rate reduction on sewer service for the same qualifying low-income property owners, effective October 1. The district determined it could offer a lower rate without compromising its budget or increasing rates for other customers. At this point, it is only for property owners, not renters.

“This is our first step into this,” commissioner Mike Stolmeier said during last week’s meeting. “We can afford to give relief, but not to everyone.”