Atlas Twp.-By a 4-1 vote on Monday, the board approved a countywide sewer ordinance, joining more than 30 other communities.
The extensive sewer ordinance takes aim at the non-residential commercial pre-treatment program, mandated by federal law along with other sewer issues.
David Jansen, assistant director of the Genesee County Drain Division, said several workshops were conducted to discuss the ordinance with the communities.
‘The ordinance assures us we don’t get something into the treatment plant we don’t expect. Certain chemicals can upset the whole system’the ordinances needed to be updated’it has to provide for changing technology. The integrity of the infrastructure needs to be protected.?
‘There was some concern that communities were coerced into signing this ordinance and coming onto our system. It’s just not the case.?
Jansen did not know how many communities had approved the ordinance.
After receiving the 120-page sewer ordinance earlier this year, the township board appealed to the county, reducing the required distance of sewer tap-in from 300 feet from a dwelling to 100 feet. Township officials said the move will ease the burden on township residents that are far back from the sewer line.
Currently 75 residents are hooked on to the county sewer system in the township.
Trustee Scott Statson voted no on the contract and remains cautious of the deal.
‘Our drain commissioner made it clear that if we did not sign the contract, our sewer service was going to stop,? said Statson. ‘While they did not hold a gun to our heads, they did make us sign the deal. We have to play hardball, we are going to get screwed on this ordinance.?
‘Right now they can force residents to sign up on the sewer system’the costs are high. Not only is there a tap in fee, there’s also a long line into the sewer system.?