11-26-1990 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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ORONO COUNCIL MEETING HELD NOVEMBER 26, 1990 SEPTIC POSITION • Bernhardson presented information relating to the present and future need for a septic inspector. He asked Council to consider whether it would be appropriate to include a full time on -site septic inspector in the 1991 budget. Bernhardson noted that there is someone currently holding that position on a part -time basis, but it would be necessary to go through a hiring process if the position becomes full -time. Goetten said, "I learned that it may be a legal requirement nor cities to have an on -site septic inspector. It sounds as though we have no choice, is that correct? Would the increase in septic fees cover the additional salary if the position becomes full- time ?" Bernhardson said, "There is a proposal to increase the septic fee to $25.00 per quarter :_n 1991 and to $30.00 '_n 1992. Those increases would help defray the additionial_ cost for the inspector, but would not cover it entirely." With regard to Goetten's first question, Gaffron replied, "I do not believe it is State law yet. These are sore changes occurring with the Metropolitan Council that will compel cities to have an on -site septic inspector." Bernhardson noted that Mike Gaffron has served as on -site program for the last ten years, but that has not been his primary • duty with the City. Peterson stated that people have expressed concern about the septic billing because many are uncertain as to whether or not their system was inspected. Gaffron said, "Three out of the last four years, the City has had a part -time septic inspector. This year we anticipate that 80% of the septic systems in the City will be inspected. Our goal is to do each system every other year. The systems that are problems, we try to do every year." Goetten stated that the City of Orono has always been a leader in these areas and that she agrees with hiring a full -time septic inspector to assure that continues. It was moved by Acting Mayor Callahan, seconded by Peterson, to direct Staff to convert the position of temporary septic inspector to one of full -time, commencing January 1, 1991, and direct that applications be taken and a recommendation be brought forward for regular appointment. Additionally authorize extension of the temporary position until a regular appointment is made. Motion, Ayes -3, Nays -0. Motion passed. - 10 - •