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Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Q.)
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. Other political subdivisions, individuals or professionals may be considered for CORD membership 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 per year. The dues structure is evaluated annually in the context of the costs associated with 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?CORD recently retained the services of Governmental Policy Group, a Columbus lobbying firm. Eric Luckage and John Albers of Albers and Albers will continue to contribute their time toward legislative efforts as well.
HOW DOES CORD WORK WITH THE OHIO RURAL WATER ASSOCIATION?CORD was formed with the approval 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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