An ongoing dispute between the Borough of Northampton Borough and Allen Township regarding sewage usage fees is nearing its end.

During Thursday's council meeting borough Manager Gene Zarayko presented a more positive outcome regarding the outstanding issues with Allen Township.

"On Thursday, Sept. 13, Ilene Eckhart, the manager of Allen Township, hand delivered a check in the amount of $98,311.89 for sewage use, representing the first two quarters of the year. ... [Solicitor William] McCarthy had contacted their attorney [township solicitor F. Lincoln Treadwell] and made arrangements for this payment," Zarayko reported.

In addition, Zarayko said a meeting will be scheduled "in the very near future" to iron out the remaining issues involving the sewer service agreement.

There seemed to be a collective sigh of relief from council members upom hearing that the impasse over sewer usage fees is finally drawing to a close.

Last month, McCarthy, reported that a tentative agreement appeared to be reached with Allen Township.

Except for a few minor details, the proposed contract could be signed by both parties.

At an earlier meeting this month, Zarayko said Allen Township was making changes to the proposed agreement, much to the chagrin of borough council and other borough officials.

Zarayko said the township owed the borough roughly $100,000 in past sewage service fees.

The borough's waste water treatment plant provides the township with sewage service.

Most of the Northampton residences using the service are located in the southern section of the township and some new housing developments.