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n <br />Select Board <br />Minutes <br />November 18, 2021 <br />Presentation by the Board of Health on Regulations Governing Septic Systems and Cesspools, Report on <br />Counts, Enforcement Authority and Enforcement Strategy: (continued) <br />It was reported that an additional 30 of the affected properties have reached compliance with the <br />inspection order, 5 of which have complied but are consider an automatic failure since they are utilizing <br />cesspools. Most of the affected areas lie within Sewer Area 2B. <br />The Santuit Pond area have been fully vetted and identified by the Select Board as a priority area of <br />focus. <br />Of the 121 properties, 48 have complied with the pumping requirement being pumped within the last <br />three years. It was noted that inspectors and haulers have scheduled pumping's, but due to the demand <br />and weather delays pumping is planned later this year. It is assumed there are a number of property <br />owners working toward full compliance. <br />Research was also conducted on all waterbodies. A total of 43 cesspools are located within 100' of a <br />waterbody with 50 reported within 300'. Research is ongoing on the remainder of areas of concern <br />including the estuaries. <br />With regards to affordability, it was noted there are community funds available to replace failed septic <br />systems, and other sources of funding. The Town has access to low interest loans through the County <br />Septic Loan program and there are grant subsidies for the installation of UA systems. Funds can be <br />loaned to the property owner through the betterment process which can expand over a 20-year period. <br />Discussion followed with respect to systems failed by inspection. Systems under the local Cesspool <br />Regulation must be upgraded or repaired within certain timeframes. Many of which are within the 2 <br />years of discover as allowed by Title V with extensions within the requirement to tie into the sewer <br />within a specific timeframe. Imminent health hazards require a shorter timeframe. <br />Appropriate applications are expected to be determined under Sewer Commission Regulations and <br />Bylaws. The Board of Health has full authority under Title V to require the replacement of failed septic <br />systems. However, there is question as to whether the Board of Health has the proper authority to <br />require septic repairs or replacements, and to require connection to the proposed sewer system. It is <br />expected that policy would be set under new regulations and bylaws. <br />