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6 <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 />