Brandon Twp – At an Ortonville Chamber of Commerce meeting July 13, Village Manager Paul Zelenak presented the concept of a sewage treatment facility for the village.
Although Zelenak says it’s important for the residents to decide the issue of bringing sewage treatment into the village, he was pleased at the response he received from chamber members.
‘I think it was well received among the members,? said Zelenak. ‘They were interested in the concept and their questions were very good.?
? The more that people know about the particulars the better informed they will be to make better decisions.?
Stating that sewers would improve the environment, health and welfare of the village, Zelenak said he has pursued sewage treatment system concepts since the multi-community sewer proposal failed more than two years ago.
Zelenak said a study completed by Rowe, Inc. engineers outlined the concept of three different types of treatment systems with a waste water treatment plant, that would service the more than 851 building within the village. The concept was presented to the village council in April.
Engineers said that a sewage system would eliminate the threat of soil contamination, from nitrates and coliform pollutants, which are currently released in and around several village wells.
Zelenak told chamber members that high levels of nitrates in the soil are an indication of failing septic systems and because of the area’s high water table the health of Kearsley Creek and drinking water could be at risk without addressing treatment.
While Township Supervisor Ron Lapp openly supported the concept and expressed empathy at the need for sewers within the community, he stated the project is expensive and that township sewers hinge on what happens in the village.
‘We’re hopeful,? said Lapp. ‘We are letting Paul move forward with council and then we can support the conclusion.?
At a price tag of nearly $15 million Zelenak said the most important issue, out of several, is to pursue funding possibilities with the village council.