[VIDEO] Orchards Mall Closed Due To Water Bills

mall-closed-sign

More trouble for the Orchards Mall as the complex was shut down Thursday morning by Benton Township due to a water shutoff. WSJM’s Jacob Holmes has more.

Official Statement from Benton Charter Township:

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