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Berlin Township requests $700,000 to connect about 40 homes to Flat Rock sewer after septic failures
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Summary
Berlin Township supervisors told the subcommittee that failing septic systems in two subdivisions have created a public‑health problem and asked for $700,000 to extend Flat Rock municipal sewer service; presenters cited a construction estimate of $744,588.75 and said residents cannot afford replacement on their own.
Berlin Township officials described repeated septic system failures in two older subdivisions and asked the appropriations subcommittee for $700,000 to connect about 40 homes to the Flat Rock municipal sewer system.
"These were older subdivisions in approximately 40 homes, and the repair costs are unattainable for the residents," Berlin Township Supervisor Mary Jo Gedelian said, recounting contacts from residents who have faced repeated pumpings and costly repairs. She cited one recent homeowner who spent $13,000 in October 2024 to replace a septic system that continued to fail and said frequent rain events cause backup and hazardous conditions for multiple households.
Gedelian told the committee the Monroe County environmental health department advised the township that on‑site systems are failing because of tight lots, soil texture and a high water table. She said the city of Flat Rock has agreed to provide sewer service at no cost to residents if the township extends sewer lines, and that engineering, permitting and contingency sum to an estimated $744,588.75 for construction.
When asked whether the township has an alternative plan if state funds are unavailable, Gedelian said there is no plan B: absent the appropriation, costs would fall to residents through assessments. Committee members asked about assessment mechanisms and project readiness; Gedelian said the project could be ready as early as the coming summer or fall and that assessment details would follow construction if funded.
