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Written by Lassie
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Friday, 04 April 2008 09:17 |
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Fellow SD-45 resident Jason Bradley has been closely watching the latest power grab by local government: replacing water meters with an automated system. Sounds innocuous until you read further in his article:
Under a free market system, the entity that collects for water payments (even if it is an oppressive monopoly) should have the ability to decide the cost of its product and the way it is measured. They do not, however, have the right to “deputize” the contractors to look for other issues while in your home. The article continues as such,
In addition to meter replacement, the City (via the meter contractor) will be conducting an inspection for illegal sump pump or footing drain connections to the sanitary sewer. These illegal connections are often done via a floor drain or wash tub. It is against city and state code to discharge footing drain, sump pump, or surface runoff water into the sanitary sewer. The metropolitan sewage treatment utility is imposing large fines on cities that do not enforce the illegal discharge provisions of the law.”
Jason notes the difference between replacing water meters and violating the fourth amendment by conducting unreasonable searches in our homes. The City of Crystal will fine any resident who refuses inspections of their homes and the city newsletter warns:
Failure to allow inspection and comply with the findings will result in a $100-per-month fine.”
Any constitution lawyers interested in checking into this power grab?
Read Jason Bradley's article in full at SD-45. Comments (and legal advice) welcome. |
