Scituate Approves Emergency Sewer Connections for Failing Septic Systems
Select Board fast-tracks connections for two properties, highlighting ongoing infrastructure challenges in coastal community
SCITUATE, MA - July 23 - The Scituate Select Board has approved emergency sewer connections for two properties with failing septic systems at their July 23 meeting.
Board members unanimously approved connections for homes at 81 Elm St. and 64 Viner Ave. after receiving reports of system failures from the Board of Health.
"Anytime we have a system that is near a town sewer that goes into failure, we always reach out to DPW to see if it is feasible to see if they can connect to town sewer," said Andrew Scheele, Scituate's health agent.
The Elm Street property still had a functioning cesspool, a type of rudimentary septic system rarely seen in modern times. Scheele noted that cesspools can sometimes pass inspections if used minimally.
"If you have a four-bedroom house and all you have is mom and dad living there now or it's just maybe your mom or dad, you're not going to get a lot of use," Scheele explained.
The Viner Avenue property had a newer alternative septic system installed about 20 years ago, but recent inspections found issues including a non-functioning aerator and wet spots in the yard with a musky odor.
Board members expressed surprise at the continued existence of cesspools in town. "I actually, there was actually a house in town that still has a cesspool," remarked one member.
The board also heard updates on other infrastructure projects, including new electric vehicle charging stations and improvements to the town's iconic lighthouse.
In other business, the board:
- Approved a rate of 33 cents per kilowatt hour for new EV charging stations being installed around town
- Discussed ongoing efforts to improve beach accessibility for disabled residents
- Heard plans for an Aug. 7 celebration to relight the Scituate Lighthouse following renovations
Lighted signs will be placed on Jericho Road on July 30 and at the entrance to Lighthouse Road on Aug. 2 to inform the public.
Free bus transportation will be provided from Scituate High School from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. due to limited parking.
The organizers are setting up a stage, tent, chairs, tables, and a sound system for the event. SCTV will live-stream the celebration.
The lighthouse relighting is scheduled for around 8 p.m., coinciding with dusk.