Title
Approval of an Ordinance Amending Wastewater Regulations related to Septic Tank Effluent Pumping (S.T.E.P.) Systems
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
The Planning Commission held a public hearing on September 25, 2017. The Commission moved to recommend City Council approve the proposed revisions to the S.T.E.P. system regulations.
City Manager Recommendation:
Move to approve the ordinance amending Olympia Municipal Code Chapter 13.08 regarding regulations for S.T.E.P. systems on second reading.
Report
Issue:
Whether to approve an ordinance revising wastewater regulations related to S.T.E.P. systems.
Staff Contact:
Eric Christensen, Engineering and Planning Supervisor, 360.570.3741
Presenter(s):
None - Consent Calendar Item
Background and Analysis:
Background and analysis has not changed from first to second reading.
Septic Tank Effluent Pumping (S.T.E.P.) systems are sewer services that use individual tanks and pumps at residences and commercial sites. Wastewater liquid is pumped directly into the sewage collection system. The tank collects solids, which are then pumped periodically, usually every seven years. The City is responsible for the maintenance and pumping of S.T.E.P. systems within the city limits and urban growth area.
The 2007 Wastewater Management Plan significantly restricted the use of S.T.E.P. systems. Restrictions on S.T.E.P. systems were based on additional maintenance costs per service connection, as well as odor and corrosion problems associated with elevated hydrogen sulfide concentrations. Current City regulations permit the use of S.T.E.P. systems only to serve existing lots adjacent to existing S.T.E.P. mains. This has left a number of otherwise subdividable properties and small investors stranded without sewer service for the foreseeable future.
The 2013 Wastewater Management Plan proposed allowing new S.T.E.P. systems for infill. This was a strategy under "Objective ID: Facilitate the orderly expansion ...
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