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Homeowner, city weigh options for sanitary lateral at 14 N Illinois Street
Summary
A Hobart homeowner and engineering staff discussed options for a problematic sanitary lateral at 14 N Illinois Street, including relocation, a 10-inch replacement estimated at $15,500, or alternatives such as a grinder pump; the Board tabled the matter pending further engineering work.
The Hobart Sanitary District on April 14 heard from property owner Eric Morris and BF&S engineer Brandon Towle about a private sanitary lateral serving 14 N Illinois Street and possible fixes.
Morris told the Board he has tried since September 2025 to obtain a prescriptive easement from the adjacent owner to the west so the lateral could be relocated; he said those efforts have so far been unsuccessful. Towle and staff outlined several options: relocate the lateral to the north side if the easement is obtained; install a 10-inch lateral within the City’s existing easement (an estimated construction cost of $15,500, with a potential private-cost reduction of about $2,800 if the western property can be used); install a grinder pump system; proceed with condemnation of the short private section; or take no action. The City noted it may assist in locating the lateral if the homeowner pursues relocation through proper easements.
Board members stressed that the line remains a private facility and that interim options would not necessarily address a creek crossing at the site. Mr. Alex Metz said the long-term goal is relocation and that other options are primarily interim measures. The owner expressed concern about long-term performance and questioned whether a 10-inch pipe would prevent future backups.
The Board voted to table the item pending development of an additional engineering solution (motion by Mr. Joe Broadaway, second by Mr. Jim Mandon; vote 4–0). The district will return the matter when staff and engineers can present further options or confirm easement status.
