Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Septic Compliance topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Select Board presses enforcement on shoreline septic compliance; 23 properties remain noncompliant
Summary
The Town Manager reported 323 of 346 shoreline properties are in compliance with septic regulations and said the town is moving toward fines for nonresponsive owners; board members discussed setting a firm deadline and prioritizing enforcement to protect lake water quality.
During the Town Manager’s report, staff updated the Select Board on shoreline septic compliance: 323 of 346 shoreline properties are in compliance and 23 are not. The town manager said the town is progressing through the enforcement process and moving toward fines for owners who have not responded to inspectors.
Board members urged a clear timeline and a final outreach attempt; several suggested setting a specific date (Labor Day was proposed) to implement fines for those who do not respond. Members argued that enforcing shoreline septic rules is an important near‑term step to reduce phosphorus entering Muscoma Lake and to be fair to property owners who have invested in compliance.
The town also reported targeted inspection work on island properties and ongoing coordination with state officials for technical guidance. The board directed staff to continue the enforcement process consistent with law and to report back with an enforcement timeline.
