Two commissioners still need some more information before moving forward with an engineering study concerning failing septic systems in vulnerable areas in Marshall county.
Ken Jones from JPR previously appeared before the Marshall County Council and Marshall County Commissioners and offered to conduct an engineering study to create solutions to alleviate issues surrounding failing septic systems. The biggest problem that residents face is that if a septic system fails then there isn’t enough space on the resident’s property to install another system. The septic system has to be installed at least 50 feet from a water well to ensure no contamination.
Commissioner Mike Delp said it’s time to move forward.
“I think that is the right next step for us is to get that preliminary engineering study,” said Delp. “We’ve been concerned with quality of life where we’re pushing forward on a lot of different Stellar grants and those kinds of things. I don’t know how we could have more quality of life than protecting our water here. It doesn’t mean we have to go any farther, but at least we can get a study done and find out where our hotspots are and how we can afford to alleviate the problems that we know are out there because we already have septic systems that are failing.”
Commissioner Stan Klotz expressed a concern that it would be years before any relief can be realized and what would happen to residents with failing systems in the meantime. He also asked about current sewer infrastructure from municipalities that do have a sewer operation system extending to areas of concern, but Delp argued that won’t be considered as a viable solution until an engineering study is done.
Commissioner Kevin Overmyer wasn’t ready to move forward with a decision as he wants more information.
Delp said he will continue to push the matter.
“I would like to see the Task Force go to the council and ask for that money at the next council meeting.”
The cost of the engineering study is $35,000-$45,000. The Marshall County Council next meets on Monday, May 13.
