Backflow fees hurting small businesses

OSWEGO, N.Y. — Harsh regulations and and monthly fees are pushing local businesses against a wall.

In an attempt to uphold New York State Health and Safety guidelines, the City of Oswego has clamped down on the rules regarding backflow prevention devices, forcing businesses to either comply or pay a fees up to $500 a month with threat of discontinued water services.

Local business owner Joe Garafolo notes, “we already have a backflow type, its just what they don’t want apparently.”

Garafolo proceeds to speak on the struggle to find a plumber who is willing to even look at his backflow prevention device; Only five plumbers in Oswego have the certifications needed from the Department of Health to look at these devices.

Owner of Furlong Properties Greg Furlong highlights that even if you do find plumber with the proper certifications, the fix is not cheap…and not small either.

Despite the pushback from local businesses, Supervising Public Health Engineer William Havener Jr. reassures, “We’re here to help with the residences and businesses in the county, and if there are issues, we will resolve them with the city.”