Floyd County commissioners approve notice of intent and appoint hearing officer for on-site wastewater district

The Floyd County Commissioners voted to approve a notice of intent to initiate creation of a Floyd County on-site wastewater management district intended to allow use of state-authorized “rescue systems” (above-ground discharge systems) for properties where conventional septic systems cannot be approved. The notice triggers a statutorily required public hearing process.

County officials explained the district is intended as a narrow remedy for existing failed systems where no other septic option is feasible and where connection to sewer is not available within 300 feet. The county’s health department will evaluate individual properties and manage permitting; the commissioners said the district is not intended to expand sewer service or to be used for new construction where standard septic is feasible.

The board also approved a resolution appointing Scott Walters as hearing officer, at a per diem/expense rate the board authorized (meeting language: $500 per day or $250 for part of a day plus expenses), to conduct the public hearing, receive evidence and report findings and recommendations to the commissioners. County staff said the hearing officer will hold a public hearing advertised according to state law, after which the commissioners will consider an ordinance to establish the district. Officials said the hearing will include technical presentations from the health department and other experts; affected property owners will have an opportunity to present objections or support during the hearing.

Commissioners stressed the district’s limited scope for failed systems and that the county will not be entering the wastewater treatment business; any ongoing inspection, permitting and maintenance requirements will be handled by the Floyd County Health Department. The board approved both the notice of intent and the hearing officer appointment by unanimous voice vote.