COSTS AND FINANCING FAQs

*What is this going to cost the property owner?*	Several factors can be expected to affect the costs of any property owner, primarily the building's size and distance from the street and may involve cost adjustments for unique connections, exceptional landscaping, paved areas, and the proper abandonment of septic systems. Generally, the cost for smaller lots will tend to be less than for larger lots. Funding a property's sewer connection and septic tank abandonment is the responsibility of the individual property owner in Mashpee. However, the connections will not be required for properties until the wastewater collection and treatment system are sufficiently complete and operational, which is projected to be during 2024.
*What funding programs are available to assist property owners with paying for the sewer connection?*	Barnstable County provides low-interest Betterment loans through the Cape Cod Aquifund to homeowners faced with replacing their septic systems or connecting to town sewer. Depending on household income, loans of 0% to 4% interest rates are available. For new applicants, 0% and 2% rates are available for single family, owner-occupied, year-round primary residences. In addition, there is a 40% State tax credit available that could offset the cost up to $6,000. Homeowners are encouraged to consider using the Barnstable County Community Septic Management Loan Program (CSMLP), which is available for homeowners in Cape Cod communities to help finance their property's connection to new sewer systems (including septic system abandonment).
*How and when will property owners know the annual cost to use Mashpee's sewer system?*	While the sewer rate is yet to be determined, it will be based on usage by individual property owners. The Town anticipates the rate to be established when the sewer system is operational.
*Will the residents know the costs per phase?*	Yes, the Town's public expenses for proposed projects are subject to resident review through the public meeting process. Mashpee registered voters have the ability to approve (by voting at Town Meetings) subsequent phases of the sewer system beyond Phase 1. The associated costs for each phase being voted on, will be published in the Town Meeting Warrants prior to the meeting.
*How should commercial property owners with Title V compliant septic tanks become prepared for connection to the Town's sewer system and how will connection costs be determined?*	All properties within a sewer service area are REQUIRED to connect. Commercial properties with buildings currently serviced by Title V septic systems should plan to connect to the Town's sewer system similarly to residential property owners. Commercial property owners with functioning septic systems can monitor the phased planning and construction of the Town's sewer system to know approximately when the street's sewer main will be installed with connection stub identified for the property.