Northampton Borough Council refused to budge from the required $5,070-per-unit sewer tap-in fee that has been in place for more than two decades, following a request from the owner of the former Catholic War Veterans Post 454, 14th Street and Washington Avenue, who sought a reduction in the rate.

Council unanimously rejected, without comment, MGMJ Holding Company’s appeal to lower the sewer tap-in fee at its Feb. 7 meeting.

There are eight separate apartments, classified as dwelling units, in the building; however, one apartment existed before the other seven units were added.

Borough Manager LeRoy Brobst said MGMJ had earlier paid $35,490 in sewer tap-in fees, which remain with the borough.

Brobst, for the second consecutive meeting regarding the request, was steadfast in his opinion.

“I remain opposed,” he said.

Representatives from MGMJ Holdings were in the audience but did not address council. Also observing the proceedings was the owner of the former Central School on Main Street, whose conversion to apartments involves the sewer tap-in fees as well.

The issue was brought to council during the January meeting, but the matter was tabled when Councilman Anthony Lopsonzski Sr. requested more information be provided before voting.

“In keeping with Ordinance No. 1061, adopted June 2, 1994, and Resolution No. 4-12, adopted April 5, 2012, a fee of $5,070 shall be charged for each dwelling unit,” Brobst said.

In decades past, the structure was home to a synagogue, then a post office. CWV Post 454 later occupied the building, followed briefly by a child care center. It has been empty for several years.