Notwithstanding the provisions of any law, rule or regulation to the contrary, any nonprofit, private water company, organized pursuant to Title 15 of the Revised Statutes for the purpose of supplying water to an unincorporated community within a county of the third class, may charge a membership fee or fees for any person becoming a member of such company after the effective date of this act. The amount of such membership fee or fees shall be determined by the company and shall not exceed $500.00.
N.J.S. § 48:19-13.1