Middletown WPCA approves sewer hookup for resident Steven Novato

Steven Novato, who identified himself as the applicant, told the Middletown Water Pollution Control Authority that his Dundalk Road house relies on an old cesspool and that a new engineered septic system had been quoted at about $69,000. "We received a quote for a, engineered septic system for $69,000," Novato said.

Chief Engineer Brian Robillard said a connection to the nearest lateral — located behind the school and across part of Smith Park — appears feasible but would likely require an easement, a survey and review to meet the authority’s slope and material standards. Robillard said the department has no sewer on Country Club Road, so any service would need to run to the rear of the property and cross public land with appropriate easements.

A board member moved to advance Novato’s application and another member seconded; the board approved the request by voice vote. The board instructed staff and the applicant to pursue the necessary easement and filing steps for recordation. Robillard noted the easement, once recorded, would travel with the property.

The decision does not itself authorize construction of the lateral work; Novato and any contractor must submit site plans and engineering that meet the department’s standards before a final permit is issued. The board did not record a roll-call vote, only a voice vote of approval.