Maryland Town Debates Policy of Free Water To Churches

Yesterday's Baltimore Sun reports that Mount Airy (MD) Town Council is debating whether to modify its current policy of providing free municipal water service to churches and other non-profit organizations. A proposed resolution would set criteria for entitlement to the exemption from water charges. It would require the non-profit to provide a public service at the site; not exceed an average use of 20,000 gallons per quarter; agree to use water conservation items provided by the town; and cooperate in conservation planning. Also the exemption would not be permitted if it led to rate increases or other negative effects on other users. Monday night, Council decided to postpone adopting the proposed changes until the town's water and sewer commission gives its views. However, the town will temporarily apply the proposed guidelines to churches until a permanent decision is made. Two councilmen are concerned about the church-state implications of the current policy.