Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Public Works Sewer topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Council addresses septic pump complaints, says homeowners responsible unless city deems otherwise
Summary
Council reported recent private septic backups were determined to be homeowner problems; city staff had KMS pump and inspect tanks and told one resident the city would not cover cost because the issue was on the homeowner's side per the ordinance.
Council discussed several recent private septic complaints in which staff inspected tanks and found the problem on the homeowner’s side. The Chair said staff sent KMS to pump and inspect tanks and that the contractor found no city-side problem; the homeowner received a bill and was upset. The Chair said that under the city ordinance, the city pays to pump septic tanks only when the city determines it is necessary; otherwise the homeowner is responsible.
Councilors agreed to take a proactive approach by checking properties and keeping a list of tanks nearing full so the contractor could pump multiple tanks on a single trip to reduce residents’ costs. A councilor noted historic agreements that once gave the city a lower per-pump price, but current dumping costs (to Baker) drive the contractor’s fees.
