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Hamilton County RDC to study funding options for septic-inspection costs tied to Regional Utility District connections
Summary
Two written requests from county officials asked the Redevelopment Commission to explore using TIF or other funds to reimburse homeowners for septic-system inspections required by state statute to avoid connecting to the Hamilton County Regional Utility District; staff said legal options will be drafted for the next meeting.
At a meeting of the Hamilton County Redevelopment Commission, two written requests were read into the record asking the commission to examine funding options to help homeowners pay inspection or testing costs tied to exemptions from connecting to the Hamilton County Regional Utility District (HCRUD) sewer lines.
Commissioner Herbrandt’s emailed request said constituents contacted him about the cost of inspection services to receive an exemption from connecting to the HCRUD and asked the commission to "review all possible solutions to secure funding assistance for impacted homeowners" and specifically to consider whether TIF funds could be used. In his written remarks, Herbrandt said, "Assisting our concerned citizens is a high priority given the inaccurate information shared by residents in our district."
Council Member Hall’s email asked the RDC to "ask the CDC to fund up to 200,000 as grant money to be used by the Hamilton County Regional Utility District to reimburse homeowners required by state statute to test their septic system as a means to not connect to the Hamilton County Regional Utility District sewer services." Hall said more than 400 homes in Jackson Township could be affected and recommended a means-tested reimbursement program using criteria such as homestead status, income and assessed value.
Staff described the two requests as "very similar but slightly different" and said the legal department believes there is an avenue to pursue the concept. "We'll work with Cam and Oscar to put that right in for you guys so that it can be discussed at the next meeting," a staff member said. Commissioners expressed general support for the idea but some questioned whether using RDC funds was the cleanest approach and suggested exploring other sources such as Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds through the Knowlesville Housing Authority. No formal motion or vote was taken; staff will return with a written legal analysis and proposal for discussion at the next meeting.
