More trouble for the Orchards Mall as the complex was shut down Thursday morning by Benton Township due to a water shutoff.
Although the JCPenney in the mall remained open due to it having a separate water account, the rest of the mall was shuttered with signs posted at the doors from the township building inspector. They said occupancy of the mall has been revoked due to the water shutoff. The notice goes on to say, “A failure to respond to the notice will result in further action as a condemned, hazardous, and posted structure…with costs to be placed on the property tax rolls for that action for this property.”
Meanwhile, the Orchards Mall has posted to its Facebook page, saying the water bill has been paid, but the township “has decided to be very stubborn and unprofessional by refusing to allow the water to be turned back on.”
Benton Township Superintendent Kelli Nelson tells us the mall owed more than $31,000 for water as of Thursday morning. She said the mall has to pay a shutoff fee and a two-month deposit before the water will be turned on. The mall is in the process of making those payments, and Nelson tells us its water could be restored Thursday afternoon or Friday. She also noted the mall is required to pay its water bill with a cashier’s check. Nelson issued the below statement.
“June 7, 2018
Benton Charter Township Statement Regarding Mall Occupancy Revocation
It is unfortunate that the Orchard’s Mall owner has placed both the Mall tenants and Benton Charter Township in this precarious position. The owner of the mall has done this community a disservice and continues to waste valuable tax payer resources.
Benton Charter Township strictly adheres to its utility ordinances which ensures that all utility customers receive equitable service and treatment. The Mall has consistently been on the shut off list for non-payment and has continued to wait until the last hour to make the required delinquent payments. The Township has issued Notices of Occupancy Revocation in addition to the shut off notices. The Mall owner and tenants were aware that the Certification of Occupancy would be revoked if the water was disconnected.
The Mall did make a payment in the form of a cashiers check after the shut off had taken place. The Mall is being required to make an additional $6,000 deposit in order for service to be reinstated. Upon receipt of such payment the reinstatement of water service will be scheduled as soon as possible.
The Township continues to strive to develop its commercial and retail district despite the negating affects due to poor management of the Orchards Mall.
Kelli L.S. Nelson
Benton Charter Township Superintendent”
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