Residents of Hawthorne Court in Green are raising urgent concerns over a malfunctioning septic system at 4419 Massillon Road, which they allege is discharging raw sewage onto their properties and into the local stormwater system. This situation has prompted a petition signed by numerous neighbors, which will be presented to the city council and the Summit County Health Department.

The property owners, Maria and Francis Carson, are accused of intentionally directing raw sewage into a trench that flows onto neighboring properties, ultimately contaminating a retention pond. Residents reported strong odors and visible sewage since April 2023, leading to investigations that revealed alarming levels of E. coli in the area—over 16,000 per 100 milliliters, far exceeding the acceptable limit of 1,030.

Despite directives from the Summit County Health Department to connect to the municipal sewer system, the Carsons have reportedly failed to comply. Residents have expressed their distress over the health risks posed by the sewage, particularly for vulnerable individuals, including elderly residents with pre-existing health conditions. The ongoing issue has led to unpleasant odors permeating homes and garages, raising fears of potential health hazards.

Community members are calling for immediate action from local authorities to halt the illegal sewage discharge, enforce compliance with health regulations, and ensure ongoing monitoring of the situation to prevent future occurrences. The residents emphasize that the health and safety of their community are at stake, urging the city of Green to take decisive measures to address this public health nuisance.