Allow municipalities to review certain water and sewer systems

HB 657 would authorize cities and towns to review and approve the design and construction of public water and sewer systems, including extensions or alterations. To gain this authority, a city or town must employ or contract with a licensed professional engineer and establish specific review programs. This bill directly affects municipalities by giving them local oversight capabilities for these infrastructure projects within their jurisdictions. When conducting reviews, cities and towns must ensure compliance with existing state environmental and real property taking laws.