Senator Berry Announces $1.9 Million for Sewer Rate Relief
Press Release - January 9, 2001

Senator Frederick E. Berry (D- Peabody) announced today the Commonwealth Sewer Rate Relief Fund awards for the municipalities in his district. The awards, which are administered by the Department of Revenue, in compliance with the Department of Environmental Protection, total $1.9 million for the Second Essex District.

"It has been a top priority of mine for many years to keep water and sewer rates affordable for the homeowners and businesses that I represent," said Senator Berry. "Years ago, I fought for the creation of this fund. For me, this issue has always been about keeping the economy strong for North Shore residents."

The Sewer Rate Relief Fund award will be distributed to:

Beverly in the total amount of $410,563. An award for $31,939 will be used to support local projects and $378,632 in aid will be administered through South Essex Sewerage District (SESD.)
Danvers in the total amount of $265,235. An award for $35,822 will be used to support local projects and $229,413 in aid will be administered through SESD.
Peabody in the amount of $711,511, which will be administered through Massachusetts Water Resource Authority (MWRA) and SESD.
Salem in the amount of $520,025, which will be administered through SESD.

The Legislature and the Governor established this fund eight years ago to alleviate sewer rate increases caused by debt service obligations for sewer construction projects.