Sewer Project Takes a Step Forward

A proposed sewer project that would provide a low pressure sewer system for 95 homes in the Woodpond area moved a step forward at Monday’s Town Plan and Zoning meeting, with the unanimous approval of an 8-24 referral.

The project was initiated by Farmington Valley Health District about three years ago. The district called it an area of high priority among neighborhoods without sewer systems, Town Engineer Russ Arnold explained in presenting the proposal.

The Water Pollution Control Authority held public hearings, at which the majority of homeowners voted to go forward with the project and the Town Council also voted to approve. Costs for the project would be bonded by the town and defrayed by a $10,000 assessment per home. Voters would see the project at the November referendum.

Another sewer project, for the Fairview Drive neighborhood, was rejected by residents concerned about the low-pressure system which requires grinder pumps be installed at each property. Some residents from the Woodpond area voiced concerns at the previous Town Council meeting and zoning Commissioner Barbara Brenneman raised the same questions Monday.

“There’s no way to avoid the grinder pumps?” she asked.

“No,” Nelson replied, “it’s already been voted on by the WPCA.”

Chairman James Pogson pointed out that the area is rocky.

Brenneman said her concern is that homeowners can’t use the grinder pumps if power goes out.

“We are recommending that they install generators…” Nelson said. “These tanks will hold at least a day’s worth of use.”