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Board grants two waivers for water/sanitary extensions amid environmental trade-offs
Summary
The board approved two waiver requests: one allowing an individual to build on a lot without paying a full water main extension and a second allowing a church school expansion to delay water/sewer extension while pursuing grants; commissioners stressed long‑term springs protection and directed future connections when feasible.
The county approved two separate waivers April 21 that allow applicants to delay mandatory connections to county water and/or sewer systems, prompting discussion about environmental trade‑offs.
Arturo Campa: A veteran on fixed income asked for a waiver because extending the water line to his lot would cost an estimated ~$32–35k, making his plan to build a retirement home infeasible. Staff and the DRC had recommended denial because the parcel sits within connection distance and county policy encourages centralized water to protect springs. Commissioners approved a waiver unanimously, citing hardship and the existing pattern of wells nearby while noting the broader environmental concerns.
Wings of Faith Church: The church sought waivers for water and sewer for an expansion of its school. Staff said the connection would require approximately 2,100 feet of pressurized force main and estimated large costs; the church representative urged flexibility and said the nonprofit is pursuing grants. The board approved the waiver and asked the applicant to pursue grants and to return with major site plans and future connection plans.
Context and implications: Commissioners repeatedly noted the conflict between individual hardship and county goals to reduce private wells and septic systems in sensitive springsheds. Staff reminded the board that waivers can leave long‑term environmental costs and that future development may require connection or enhanced septic systems per Department of Health rules.
Next steps: Both applicants will follow required permitting; staff will continue work to extend centralized water where fiscally and environmentally sensible and will advise on grant opportunities for nonprofits.
