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Warett subdivision informal review: soils and septic tests show feasibility, access paperwork still required
Summary
An informal review of the Warett major subdivision in Morgan Township covered design waivers and soil/septic findings; soil tests showed a water indicator at about 21–22 inches (just above the 20-inch cutoff), making septic feasible but requiring attention to drain outlet or mound systems.
The Development Review Committee held an informal review of the Warett Major Subdivision (603 E 400 S, Valparaiso, Morgan Township), a proposed 1-lot major subdivision in a general agricultural zoning district.
A surveyor representing the applicants and Ron O'Connor of O'Connor Builders described the item as essentially one last subdivision associated with prior parcel splits following an auction. The surveyor said, "Basically, it's just 1 last subdivision," and staff confirmed the parcel must follow the major-subdivision process because earlier parcel splits did not create legal lots of record under current subdivision control.
Staff reviewed soil and septic test results. County staff noted oxidation-based water indicators (rust in the soil) at about 21–22 inches — just above the county's 20-inch cutoff — indicating that conventional septic systems are likely feasible but that, given flat topography, applicants may need to locate a suitable drain outlet or consider a mound/subsurface system if necessary.
Staff also observed that the parcel is relatively flat and recommended confirming a drain outlet; they advised the applicants to prepare the necessary documentation for plan commission review and to expect additional review in the county engineering queue. The committee treated this as an informal review only and did not take formal action.
Next steps: The applicant will appear at upcoming plan commission proceedings (likely March); staff will continue engineering review and will identify any additional waivers or drainage solutions needed before final subdivision approval.
