Irate Stoneboro residents voiced their opposition to a proposed sewer line extension along Fairgrounds and Mercer roads at a public hearing Tuesday.

Some said their individual septic systems are working fine and others said they couldn't afford the $1,000 tap-in fee or the monthly bills.

Retiree Harry Rickert lifted his portable oxygen tank for all to see, as he proclaimed his inability to pay.

"Do you see this thing hanging from me," he asked. "I'm half dead now. I can't afford it!"

Rickert said his income hasn't gone up in 10 years and medicine for his wife, who has cancer, costs him $200 per month.

Once the project is complete, all residences within 250 feet of the road will be required to tap in to the borough's sewer system, according to a borough ordinance.

"You tell me why I need a new sewer system," demanded Fairgrounds Road resident Donald Beckman. "The one I have now is functioning good, and it was DEP approved."

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