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Board tables Five Heritage Farms subdivision after neighbor raises septic-access concerns
Summary
Officials tabled a 3‑lot subdivision north of West Burlington following a neighboring landowner's claim that an older septic drain extends onto the proposed lots; staff recommended legal and health-department review before further action.
The Des Moines County Board of Supervisors on May 12 tabled action on Resolution 2026-0032, a three‑lot plat for Five Heritage Farms subdivision north of West Burlington, after an adjoining landowner raised concerns that an existing septic drain from her property crosses onto the subdivided parcel.
County planning staff (Jared) outlined the plat and said it meets county minimum standards for lot size, access and utilities. The complication arose when an adjoining owner said a septic drain installed years ago appears to run roughly 25–30 feet onto the property to be subdivided, and that she lacks clear access to inspect or maintain the drain.
"I didn't realize we were even tied into this until I got a call from the property owner," Linda Schneider told the board, saying the drain and surrounding terrain make maintenance difficult and that she has not been able to secure legal help for an easement.
Planning staff said the plat had already undergone West Burlington city review and that options could include relocating the drain or negotiating an easement, but that outcomes are uncertain and sometimes lead to litigation. Given the unresolved access and the landowner's request to speak, several board members said they preferred to delay final action so the county could coordinate with environmental health staff and seek legal counsel.
The chair called for a motion to table. The board voted to table Resolution 2026-0032 to allow the county to obtain additional information, including health‑department input and an attorney opinion, before returning the matter to the board.
The board did not set a specific return date for the item; staff said they would follow up once health and legal reviews are complete.
