Haines v. City Of New York

41 N.Y. 2d 769 (1977)

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Nature of the Case

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Facts

New York City (D) entered into a contract to construct a sewage system in 1924. All construction costs and subsequent costs of operations were to be borne by D. The agreement also required D to extend the sewer lines when necessitated by future growth and building constructions of the respective communities. After 50 years, the plant was operating at maximum capacity; there was no dispute over this fact. Haines (P) sought approval to develop his land into a subdivision. D refused because of the inadequate sewage plant capacity. P sued; D's obligation under the contract was perpetual, and D was obligated to construct additional plants if required. P sought declaratory and injunctive relief. Both the trial court and Appellate Division held for P; while the contract was not perpetual in duration, D was bound to construct additional facilities to meet increased demand until such time as the village or town was legally obligated to maintain a sewage disposal system. This appeal resulted.