Orono committee weighs sump-pump discharges, possible surcharges and stormwater remedies

Councilors and staff spent a sizeable portion of the meeting discussing stormwater infiltration, sump pumps and how extraneous water raises flows through the sewer system. Chris explained that historical construction often routed foundation drains and sump pumps to the sanitary sewer, and that removing such connections or adding outlet meters is one remedy; code enforcement and physical disconnection were discussed as enforcement tools.

Several committee members suggested targeted approaches. Chris noted that when the town replaced neighborhood sewer lines the work often included separate stormwater piping, which solved many infiltration problems. Committee members proposed options ranging from door-to-door inspections in problem neighborhoods to surcharges for properties that continue to route sump-pump discharge into the sanitary sewer. "The surcharge for homes that have sump pumps... is no better incentive than to get rid of it," Chris said, noting a surcharge could also fund stormwater projects. The committee asked that environmental staff (Megan Hassler) review potential environmental impacts and revenue models for any surcharge before the committee considers ordinance language.