Board approves septic elimination study and asks for more work on a sump-pump disconnection program

The Hoover Sanitary Stormwater District approved a task order to evaluate septic-system elimination options and required further study and public-facing tools for residents; the board also discussed a separate proposed program to reduce private sump-pump discharges to the sanitary system and tabled approval until staff refines the scope.

Staff described Task Order 12 as a one-time evaluation to develop baseline cost estimates, program options, and a process for online applications. The board approved the task order for the septic-system elimination program with a stated maximum amount discussed in the meeting (approximately $91,391). Staff said the study will identify likely costs, potential homeowner reimbursement formulas and how engineering and permit needs would be handled.

Separately, staff and a remote consultant walked the board through a draft Task Order for a voluntary sump-pump disconnection program that would include detection methods (smoke testing, house-to-house inspection, targeted camera work), public education and policy guidance. A draft out-of-pocket estimate cited in discussion was roughly $27,000 for study and program development.

Board members emphasized the difficulty of locating connected perimeter drains and sump pumps, the need to balance incentives versus enforcement and asked staff and the consultant to tailor a program to the district’s circumstances. The board voted to table formal approval of the sump-pump program while staff refines detection approaches and program incentives.