Home Construction Fees Could Be Waived Due to Sandy

The Montville Township Committee will consider refunding residents who paid inspection fees for construction on storm-related damage to their properties Tuesday night.

Committee members will discuss introducing an ordinance that, if adopted, would also allow residents to complete construction work without having to pay the township for inspection until Jan. 13.

"Should anyone need to get permits because of storm-related damages, we'll waive those fees," Township Administrator Victor Canning said earlier this month.

Committeeman Scott Gallopo clarified the intent of the ordinance at the Nov. 13 meeting.

"The waiver is for permits to fix damages from the storm and not for somebody remodeling their bathroom," he said.

According to the drafted ordinance, five refunds would need to be issued for already paid inspection fees averaging $76 each. Committewoman Deborah Nielson suggested at the last meeting that the committee not only refund previously paid fees but consider proactive measures as well for future storms.

The township committee will be meeting Tuesday at 8 p.m. at the Montville Municipal Building.