Birmingham Water Works has agreed to collect Jefferson County sewer fees, which could conclude discussions that have lasted nearly a year.

“We finally brought it to a resolution where both sides could agree,” Commission President Jimmie Stephens said after the commission’s committee meeting Wednesday afternoon. “The Water Works will be our collecting agent, the terms of the contract have been agreed upon and we will move forward.”

Jefferson County will receive 98 percent of the amount billed. Customers will see no difference in how they pay their bill.

“For customers, it will be smooth and seamless,” Stephens said. “The only changes will be internal, and the customers will deal only with the Birmingham Water Works Board.”

As has been the case, fees for water and sewer usage will be on the same bill.

Commissioners agreed to move the action to the agenda for Thursday’s regular commission meeting. It is set to be passed by unanimous consent. The Birmingham Water Works also meets Thursday.

“If they pass the identical contract, it will go into effect,” Stephens said.