Title
Update on Regional Septic Conversion Strategy
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
Not referred to a committee.
City Manager Recommendation:
Receive the update. Briefing; No action requested.
Report
Issue:
Whether to receive an update on the regional septic conversion strategy.
Staff Contact:
Andy Haub, P.E., Water Resources Director, Public Works, 360.753.8475
Presenter(s):
Andy Haub, P.E., Water Resources Director
Background and Analysis:
The Cities of Lacey, Tumwater, Olympia, and Thurston County are working on a strategy to help connect onsite septic systems (OSS) within the urban growth area to municipal sewer. City staff will provide an update on the regional work effort as well as Olympia's ongoing Septic-to-Sewer Program.
The 16,000 OSS in use by residents of the three local cities and their urban growth areas pose a threat to public and environment health. However, converting to municipal sewer systems is challenging. Approximately 1,980 septic systems are within the City limits. Another 2,180 are located in Olympia's urban growth area.
In April 2016, City Council directed staff to continue work on a regional conversion strategy. Over the past few months, we have met with Lacey, Tumwater, and Thurston County staff to better define the strategy and our respective roles. While many questions remain, the strategy will focus on regional coordination and local implementation. The strategy will acknowledge the unique dynamics in each jurisdiction.
In August, the Mayors of the three Cities sent a letter to the Thurston County Commissioners requesting their support for the strategy and the City's approach (see attached letter).
Meanwhile, the City of Olympia continues to support OSS conversions through the Septic-to-Sewer Program. Additionally, Olympia restricts the installation of new onsite systems to very limited circumstances. Olympia encourages and financially supports conversions:
* Seven properties converted from septic to ...
Click here for full text