JULY 14, 2025 |
Photo – Hanna Town Hall – Bigfoot99 file photo
The Hanna Town Council introduced a new ordinance that requires residents to be connected to municipal water and sewer. However, one council member raised questions about the mandate’s specific provisions.
During the July 8th Hanna Town Council meeting, Mayor Charlie George introduced Ordinance 412. Mayor George explained that the ordinance requires all residential buildings to be connected to the town’s water and sewer system.
Hanna Town Clerk Vivian Gonzales explained that the ordinance is designed to compel residents to use and pay for municipal water and sewer.
Mayor Charlie George said the Town of Hanna follows the latest International Building Codes, which sets uniform building regulations across most of the United States. Mayor George explained that the ordinance specifically applies to residential structures, not garages or other outbuildings.
Councilwoman Ellen Freeman expressed concerns about the way the ordinance was written, asking how the new regulations would affect snowbirds, or residents who live in Hanna only during the summer months, and who must disconnect their water access during winter to prevent frozen pipes.
Clerk Gonzales said the town has existing regulations to accommodate part-time residents.
Councilwoman Freeman said she interpreted Ordinance 412 as requiring constant water service to any structure intended for human habitation. However, the Councilwoman said the ordinance, as written, does not contain any provisions to allow residents to temporarily shut off their water access.
Clerk Gonzales, Treasurer Ann Calvert, and Councilman Sam Sikes emphasized that the ordinance does not target snowbirds or residents who leave for extended vacations. Instead, the regulation aims to ensure that all residents use the municipal water and sewer services while living in their homes.
Clerk Gonzales added that Ordinance 412 also applies to homes where water and sewer access has been terminated for nonpayment. The town clerk implied that the ordinance may permit the town to evict residents who fail to comply.
A Hanna resident asked if any locals were not connected to the municipal water system. Clerk Gonzales confirmed that some residents are not, noting that the ordinance will require them to comply or vacate their homes. She added that the town already offers low-cost housing options for those affected by the amended regulations.
Clerk Gonzales said Ordinance 412 uses the same language as Saratoga’s matching ordinance, adding that both were drafted by the same attorney, Patrick Brady.
Councilman Sam Sikes moved to approve Ordinance 412, amending the Hanna town code to require water and sewer services to all residential structures. Councilman Paul Cruz seconded. The motion passed, with Councilwoman Ellen Freeman casting the sole dissenting vote.
Mayor Charlie George reminded attendees that, like all ordinance changes, the regulation must pass three votes held during separate public hearings. Mayor George instructed Councilwoman Freeman to submit any proposed revisions to Town Attorney Patrick Brady for consideration before the next Hanna Town Council meeting on August 12th.
