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0 ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING <br />MINUTES FOR SEPTEMBER 15, 1997 <br />( #16 Proposed Amendment of Shoreland and On -Site Sewage Treatment Ordinance - Continued) <br />Schroeder asked and received an explanation of what "separation" means. <br />Schroeder was informed of the numbers needing replacement at this time and the percentage within <br />the Shoreland. <br />McMillan was informed that it is unknown how many properties have an alternate septic site at this <br />time. Gaffron said due to this, the ten hot spots were developed. <br />Mike Schulte reported that the neighbor of his on Wildhurst Trail that initiated discussion of this <br />proposal had purchased additional land to allow an addition to be built within the code requirements <br />for setback. The purchase of the additional land triggered the use of it for a new system to meet the <br />3' separation. He questioned how reasonable the request was when the preferred location for the <br />septic was the only site available prior to the purchase of the additional land. <br />Schulte also questioned when the testing was done with recent rains increasing the problem with <br />meeting the 3' separation. Gaffron informed him that the soil characteristics are what is checked and <br />• timing is incidental, that recent rains won't influence the test results. <br />Jabbour noted the City's desire to assist the homeowner, but the result of the Council and Staff <br />review is the changing information regarding separation. Jabbour noted that there are 250 systems <br />identified as non - conforming, and the number will increase. He said the City is trying to understand <br />the formula used by agencies in relationship to standards. Septic systems have been one method <br />whereby low density has been maintained. <br />• <br />Jabbour said he has changed his perspective regarding sewer as residents are becoming more willing <br />to pay for sewer. The policy change would allow time for a study of possible changes in regards to <br />septic systems and sewering in the City for long range planning. <br />Schroeder questioned the liberal guidelines with the vast majority of systems with less than a 1' <br />separation. Jabbour said the solution is unknown at this time but did not want to see 600 new septic <br />systems. He felt time is necessary to review the issues. <br />Stoddard inquired of the time frame and whether the Shoreland District should be considered a <br />higher priority than other properties. <br />Hawn was informed that the 10 year time period was to be consistent with non- shoreland properties. <br />40 <br />