Re: sewer connection denial - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

To: Mark E. Bernhardson, City Administrator From: Michael P. Gaffron, Assistant Zoning Administrator Date: September 19, 1985 Subject: Stebbin's Request to Connect to Long Lake Sewer I would like to comment on certain points in Jeff Stebbin's letter regarding the septic system v.s. sewer options: Point 1. The concerns are valid. The groundwater potentially can get into the tanks and is more critical in a situation such as this when a pump tank is used. However, it has been demonstrated that with careful attention, the tanks can be made waterproof to a degree that minimizes problems. Point 2. It is, of course, true that the proposed mound system east of the driveway will require a pump near the house. Pumps are mechanical and can fail, although again careful installation and design will eliminate most problems. Point 3. It is not clear what sewer easement he is referring to, but is appears that it will be necessary to cross the existing driveway regardless of which sewer system is used. Note that we have not had any documented problems of mound systems "freezing" when properly constructed and adequate soil cover over piping. Point 6. Agreed. However, note many Orono properties are in a similar situation, i.e. in close proximity to Municpal sewer lines but not allowed to connect. In fact, in this immediate vicinity (2340, 2350 Watertown Road) we have properties which are crossed by sewer lines on easements but to which the property owners are not allowed to connect. One of these just this summer installed a new $8,000 mound system to replace his failing system. He would rather have connected to sewer. If Stebbins gets approval, you can expect a flood of similar requests in virtually every area of the City where sewer lines border unsewered property. Also, how would we determine the dollar amount of the connection fee?