WHO IS
CORD?
The Coalition of Ohio Regional Districts, or (CORD) is an association
established to assist and advocate on behalf of Ohio’s Regional
Water and Sewer Districts. CORD was formed by John Albers and
Eric Luckage of Albers and Albers, a Columbus, Ohio law firm
which has formed numerous regional districts and represents
many districts as their ongoing legal counsel.
WHAT ARE REGIONAL WATER AND SEWER DISTRICTS?
Ohio Revised Code Chapter 6119 creates a procedure wherein
one or more local governments (townships, counties, and municipalities)
may petition the courts to create a new political subdivision
whose sole purpose is the provision of water and/or sanitary
or storm sewer services. The district borders may be identical
to those of the local government forming the district, or
they may be only a portion of forming local government(s).
In any event, inclusion of a territory within a district must
be voluntary.
WHAT IS CORD’S FUNCTION?
CORD was established for two primary reasons. The first was
to encourage legislation beneficial to its members and oppose
legislation prejudicial to its members. The second was to
assist regional districts in interpreting the laws of the
state of Ohio, including Ohio Revised Code Chapter 6119, and
any other laws related to the operation of regional districts.
WHY WAS CORD NEEDED?
The water and sewer laws of Ohio are complicated, and, at
times, confusing. CORD was created to be a one-stop resource
for regional districts seeking answers. Likewise, the desire
to provide these services sometimes leads to conflict. CORD
will be a voice to propose needed legislation and promote
legislation beneficial to regional districts. CORD will also
serve as a focused, independent voice opposing legislation
deemed offensive to regional districts.
WHO CAN BE A MEMBER OF CORD?
Any regional district formed under Ohio Revised Code Chapter
6119 may apply for membership as a ACTIVE MEMBER. Any political
subdivision, individual or professional may join CORD as an
ASSOCIATE MEMBER.
WHAT ARE THE CORD MEMBERSHIP DUES?
Active Membership dues are $150.00 for the first year. Thereafter, the dues are based on the combined number of water and sewer taps served by the district. Please visit the Membership page for a complete explanation. Associate Membership
dues are $150.00 dollars per year. As CORD grows, the
dues structure will be evaluated in the context of providing
effective services for the members.
WHAT ARE MY MEMBERSHIP DUES USED FOR?
In addition to meeting general administrative expenses, dues
will be used to fund three primary functions: information
production and dissemination, including maintenance of www.cordohio.org;
CORD’s meetings and annual conferences; and retention of our
legislative team.
WHO IS THE “LEGISLATIVE TEAM” REPRESENTING CORD AND
ITS MEMBERS?
At this time, Eric Luckage and John Albers of Albers and Albers are contributing their time toward legislative efforts until a lobbying firm can be hired. We anticipate that a lobbyist will be retained in 2008 or 2009.
HOW DOES CORD WORK WITH THE OHIO RURAL WATER ASSOCIATION?
CORD was formed with the blessing and encouragement of the
Ohio Rural Water Association and Kevin Strang. Some issues
are unique to regional districts and voice dedicated to their
interests was needed. We have always worked closely with the
ORWA and we encourage membership in BOTH the ORWA and CORD.
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Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Q.)
