04-08-1991 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING HELD APRIL 8, 1991 ( #18)STUBBS BAY SEWER CONTINUED approximately half a dozen with this same situation." Bernhardson stated that there are quite a few people who have not done anything up to this point, but could repair their septic systems with-J_n the next ye=ar so they would be in conformance. He said, "Those people could then state that they do not need the sewer and could ask for a grace period." Gaffron noted that the only form of_ deferring assessment payments, .of which he is aware, IS that which has been established for senior citizens. He said, "ode have not legally researched whether we can do that for persons other than senior citizens." Callahan suggested having the City Attorney look into the issues of whether or not the City can legally allow the deferral, before Council decides whether they wish to adopt that policy. He stated that the City cannot have a policy that allows everyone involved in an improvement project to decide when they would like to be assessed. Todd s-:ated t:zat they can go either w: -%y. They have sufficient area for a septic system. He said, "The problem is that there are several homes that do not have the area to put in another septic system. Once their systems fail. they will either have to go on a holding tank, as we have done for the last two years, or push for municipal sewer. Are these enough homes in that situation to push the project through ?" Gaffron explained that the problem is that most of the homes that require municipal sewer the most, are the ones that can least afford it. . "I also do not believe that Todd would be able to convince anyone that being on a holding tank is a bad way to go, even if he relays his personal experiences. When people see the cost of municipal sewer, they will opt for holding tanks. It is human nature." Callahan stated that given the City's position on protecting the lake,' there is more of a desi: -e to have sewer put in this area, than others where there is less of as environmental concern. He said, "The City has the right to order the project. All we need to do is vote for it. We also have the right to assess the benefiting property owners, but the question is how much we can assess them." Goetten stated that the City Council has a responsibility to make a final decision on this. Butler agreed with Callahan that be -cause of the potential impact an the general health, safety aitd welfare of the community, sewer is the one improvement that the City can put in - 23 -