NORTH CANAAN — Public response will go a long way toward determining whether plans will move forward for a sewer line extension into the Green Acres and Honey Hill sections of town. An informational meeting is set for Thursday, May 13, at 7 p.m. in Town Hall.
Extending the sewer requires an extension of the Canaan Fire District (CFD), which operates the sewer system. The district is defined by where sewer service is available. An extension requires a public hearing that will lead to a vote by residents and property owners within the entire district.
This proposal is hardly at that point yet.
“I’ve been trying for more than 20 years to get this project through,� CFD Warden Anthony Nania told The Journal. “People have resisted it, or the money wasn’t there, or both. Now, there are stimulus funds that would pay for 50 percent of the project.�
For Nania and CFD officials, the time is ripe. A fire district extension on Route 7 South is just a couple of weeks from completion, allowing district officials to refocus. At a projected $10 million cost for this new project on the west side of town, federal dollars will be big.
Property owners are assessed the balance, which is financed and held as a lien against their property. The district also levies a small, annual tax. Those hooked up to the sewer also pay an annual fee.
Nania said the failing septic systems have long been a concern at Green Acres. He is determined to get residents to see the economic advantages of replacing them with a sewer system. Especially resistant to the idea are those whose septic systems still seem to be in good shape.
“The cost of a new septic system — and everyone’s will fail eventually — is at least $30,000,� Nania said. “Installing sewer lines would cost each property owner about half that amount, and it would be financed over 20 to 30 years. They don’t have to hook up to the sewer now, but when their system does fail, they’ll have the opportunity.�
Nania also explained that new building codes require a reserve septic area be set aside on each building lot. While existing lots are “grandfathered,� it could be an issue later on. Sewer may be the only option for those who find themselves unable to afford a new septic system, or who have a lot that cannot meet code requirements.
A sewer system will also eliminate the requirement for residential lots with septics to have at least an acre and a half or so, making some larger lots subdividable.
Nania has heard from residents on both sides of the issue. He stressed the purpose of the May 13 meeting is to get the issues on the table. No decisions will be made.
A detailed look at the proposed project will be presented. Afterward, Nania, the project engineer and the district’s attorney will be available to hear comments and answer questions.
If eventually approved, the work would likely take place from spring to fall of 2011.
Classic styles, bold colors, and creative concerts make up the “Imaginary Concerts” line at Peggy Mercury.Provided
Shirts from Peggy Mercury’s first fashion line, “Imaginary Concerts,” hang on display.Provided
