Officials with the Turkey Creek Regional Sewer District gather for the monthly meeting Monday. In front, from left are Andrew Boxberger, attorney; Pam Jones, Jane Bower and Jim Young. In back are Bob Dumford, Jim Boone (hidden) and Brad Fishburn. Photo by Deb Patterson.

By Deb Patterson
InkFreeNews

CROMWELL — Changes in the law that affect sewer districts were brought to the attention of the Turkey Creek Regional Sewer District Board Monday, April 18. Two of the five changes were discussed.

The new law, which was a surprise to many, could be a “game changer” for TCRSD and others.

Andrew Boxberger, district attorney, pointed out the changes were signed by Gov. Eric Holcomb on March 16. One of those changes involved prohibiting capacity fees, including contributions in aid of construction, while the other involved connection exceptions.

Up until the new law was signed, exemptions to connect to a sewer system were allowable for those with systems less than 10 years old. Homeowners could receive a total of a 20-year exemption. The new law, effective March 18, changes that exemption.

According to Boxberger, any septic system can be exempt regardless of the age, as long as record of installation is available and certification is received stating the system is not failing. Because Kosciusko County has no septic system installation records available prior to 1984, any septic systems installed prior to 1985 cannot be exempt from connection.

Letters had been sent to homeowners in Vawter Park stating the exemption statute. However, the letter was sent out just before Public Law 167 was signed. New letters will now be sent with the latest information.

Boxberger stated this particular change in the law “came out of nowhere.” He will further review the capacity fee change and its effect on the district. That part of the law goes into effect July 1. “That’s a game changer,” Woodward stated adding it puts the cost on the backs of everyone else regarding rates. This fact would need to be kept in mind when the Vawter Park project is ready for bidding.

The remainder of the meeting included updates from an engineer with Jones and Henry, as well as from Tim Woodward, district superintendent.

During the engineer’s report, an update on the Eastshore/Northshore project was given. Three manholes and 10 taps have been installed in the rights-of-way. Quotes will be taken regarding the railroad crossing and brought to the board for approval at its May meeting.

A letter providing a list of 23 approved contractors will be sent to homeowners in that project. This will give property owners an opportunity to secure a contractor before the project is complete. The letter will also state once the project is completed, homeowners will have 180 days to connect to the system.

Woodward went over the resolution of a check valve problem at the plant. New valves have been installed and no problems are expected.

The board was updated on several other matters, including rebuilding a pump to be used as a backup. The rebuilt pump is interchangeable with numerous lift stations.

Three plans to remove sludge before July 4 were presented. Woodward noted permission to use acreage across the road has been received. A second option is use of five drying beds and with the use of polymer, the sludge could be bagged and taken to the landfill. The final option is use of the septic holding tank on the property. “We need eight days to do this, but the guys are ready to do it in four days, working 12 hours a day,” stated Woodward.

He did bring to the board’s attention the issue of roots at the Ogden Island retention tanks. While crews have been working to cut out the roots, a health hazard occurred. A specialized firm has been hired to come in on April 28 to complete the root removal.