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Authority tables sump-pump disconnection study after broad discussion of detection and incentives
Summary
The board discussed a proposed program to study sump-pump disconnections and options to reduce inflow and infiltration; staff and consultant outlined detection methods, incentives and enforcement options and the item was tabled for further refinement and community input.
The Hobart City Redevelopment Authority spent substantial time discussing a proposed study and program to reduce inflow and infiltration (I&I) by disconnecting residential sump pumps and reviewing septic elimination options.
Staff and consultants outlined the scope: detection approaches (smoke testing, house-by-house inspection, mainline camera work), education and voluntary-disconnection campaigns, possible incentives or fee penalties, and creation of an online application process. One consultant said the proposed scope would include developing policy language and guidance on where sump pumps should be discharged and how to handle homes without storm connections.
Board members raised practical concerns: locating all perimeter drains in older subdivisions is difficult; camera access from mains can be limited; and incentives versus enforcement were debated. "Smoke testing is probably about 50% accurate," one board member said; another emphasized the need for a clear plan on where to target efforts. The board voted to table the motion and asked staff and consultants to refine the scope and return with a draft that addresses detection methods and program incentives.
Next steps: staff will refine the task order scope, coordinate further with consultant(s) and present a draft program for board input.
