Don't Waterboard Rural California

News posts are moving

2011-05-28T15:19:00.000-07:00

Starting June first all of the AB-885 new posting activity will be posted at The Weimarian. This blog will be here for archive only. I will add an information page in the right hand column of The Weimarian with a log of the new AB-885 posts with links so that those AB-885 only readers can make sure that their posts don't get pushed down before they can get to read them. I have been posting the same material on both blogs for a while and its just too redundant. I doubt that we will see much in the way of activity until late summer or early fall when the new draft is expected to roll out. I hope that this does not pose an inconvenience.

Malibu Bacteria May Not Be from Human Waste

2011-05-15T19:28:00.000-07:00

Not only have the regulations been "in the works" for over a decade it appears that the science of determining what the problem is may also have been. This is important reading.

U. S. Geological Survey
Malibu Bacteria May Not Be from Human Waste

U. S. Geological Survey
Distribution of Fecal Indicator Bacteria along the Malibu, California, Coastline

(Cross posted at The Weimarian.)

Regional Council of Rural Counties Represented at the AB 885 Scoping Meeting

2011-05-10T10:38:00.000-07:00

Nevada County Supervisor Nate Beason spoke for the Regional Council of Rural Counties at the scoping meeting . You can see some of his comments at the link below.

Beason Makes Case for Rural Counties at State Water Board

Feedback From The AB 885 Scoping Meeting

2011-05-02T19:02:00.000-07:00

(Cross posted at The Weimarian)

This afternoon I took a trip to Sacramento. I thought it would be a good idea to attend the State Water Boards feedback meeting on the framework that they will hang new AB885 draft regulations on. Having read the scoping document I personally felt that they were going in the correct direction but I wanted to see how others felt. After listening to the comments made by representatives from about five or six agencies I think that there is consensus that the direction is a good one but the devil will be in the details. If you read the Scoping document there weren't any surprises at the meeting. It is expected that 95% septic systems will be affected by the new regulations. There are no proactive septic or well inspections included. Several questions were asked about large business or community septic systems, currently these regulations are only scoped for systems with an output of three thousand gallons or less per day.

We can relax for a bit as the draft regulations are not scheduled for release until September. After the release there will be a 90 day comment period where they will collect feedback on the latest draft. The SWRCB will be sticking to a rigorous schedule for this next release. It appears that a greater sense of urgency was fostered by a lawsuit filed over the time it is taking to get AB885 regulations in place. You can see some detail on the legal action here.

I would suggest that those interested check the link at the bottom. Next week you will be able to view the presentation slides from the scoping document feedback meetings and there is a link there to add yourself to an email list so that you can get updates via email. It is important to note that an informed public providing feedback to the SWRCB is the reason for this positive change in direction. The SWRCB should get credit for listening and we the people should continue to track the process and make sure that it is a working solution. The devil will be in the details.

Onsite Waste Water Treatment Systems (OWTS)

New approach to septic systems

2011-04-27T10:36:00.000-07:00

I found this opinion piece from the California Farm Bureau Federation at Aquafornia. I have been waiting to see other peoples take on the scoping documents. Its important to note that all we have at this point is a scoping document. There will only be two meetings for public comment on the scoping documents because it is really feedback on the concept . Once that feedback is collected and utilized we should get a look at a draft regulations. The draft regulation roll out is where we should see more widespread public comment meetings on the more detailed regulations.

California Farm Bureau Federation:
Commentary: Water board to consider new approach on septic systems

Scoping Documents for the new proposed regulations are now available

2011-04-04T18:39:00.001-07:00

Since I signed up for notifications on this topic I just received a notification email that the new documents are available. I haven't had time to read them yet. I am anxious to see how they are viewed by others so let us know what you think. Check out the link below. I will cross post this at The Weimarian

Onsite Waste Water Treatment Systems (OWTS)

Lawsuit filed against State Water Resources Control Board

2011-02-25T15:24:00.000-08:00

I find some of this writers position to be a little hyperbolic but then who am I to judge. This blogs title shows more than a little hyperbole as well. Those of us who live in glass houses should be a bit wary of throwing stones. If I had known that this blog would have been up for this long I may have done a few thing differently. Personally I appreciate the current direction that the SWRCB appears to be moving. While it does seem to be a slow process most of that time was spent developing expensive unworkable solutions for problems that didn't even exist in most of California. Read for yourself at the link below and draw your own conclusion.

Spouting Off
Suing Over Septics

Revised septic rules to feature three-tiered plan

2010-10-05T19:32:00.000-07:00

(This is just about what I wrote about some time ago. From what I am reading at this link we are still on track for the three tier system. It gives some updated time frames.)

CFBF
Revised septic rules to feature three-tiered plan

The timeline for implementation remains uncertain, Merkley said. Public hearings are tentatively planned for this fall to outline the new, three-tiered risk approach. They would be followed during the winter by CEQA (California Environmental Quality Act) scoping sessions. The draft regulations would be unveiled in the spring, with additional hearings and public comment opportunities at that time, and the water board could adopt the regulations by late summer 2011.

McClintock & Herger Wastewater Forum. Part II

2010-09-30T19:24:00.000-07:00

I went through my notes and was able to get some highlights from the panel presentations. I did not have notes on all of the panelists. According to Congressman McClintock’s opening statement there is supposed to be a recording released soon. This is rather long so I will post my observations both technical and political in one last post.

First Panel

Alfred Cabral, Esq. Representing the City of Colfax was concerned about third party litigation. The City of Colfax has been fighting in court with a litigant that uses high priced lawyers from San Francisco. The legal fees recently incurred were equal to the city’s entire annual budget. I have added links to two opinion pieces below for those that want a bit more information.

Colfax Record

Lawyers trying to clean out Colfax

Colfax Record
Time for city to take responsibility

Mark Miller, Director of Sanitation for Nevada County spoke of the community of Cascade Shores. Residents have to pay over two hundred dollars a month to fund upgrades to their sanitation plant to meet new state guidelines for copper that are 800 times more stringent that the standards for drinking water.

There is a guideline that the cost for sanitation systems should not exceed two percent of the average income of the users the cost in Cascade Shores is seven percent.

Jim Durfee ,Facility Services Director for Placer County spoke of North Auburn residents that are currently paying eighty seven dollars a month and the plant needs yet another upgrade.

Timothy Shaw, General Manager for the Olive Hurst Public Utilities District

Paul Sciuto, Assistant General Manager South Tahoe Public Utility District Represented the California Association of Sanitation Agencies (CASA).

Warren Pesses, Public Works Director City of Placerville

Some of the concerns raised were:

· Third party lawsuits. It is costly to defend even if the community wins.

· Lack of regulatory discretion

· The releasing of information about actions taken being released in local media which promotes lawsuits.

· Methods of measurement being unfair to communities closer to the water source.

· Standard for release water actually being higher than the sources water.

· Standard for release water being higher than standards for drinking water.

· Anti degradation and anti backsliding tools driving more stringent permit limitations

Panel 2

David Smith, Manager, National Pollution Discharge Elimination System, Environmental Protection Agency.

Written remarks were submitted in writing Smith made only a summary. Smith felt that over all the states has done a very good job. The EPA recognizes The federal government has provided about 280 million dollars of ARRA funds last year. The EPA does understand the concerns raised on whether requirements are necessary or fair to small communities. There is some regulatory discretion in the Clean Water Act. There are still 700 impaired water bodies in California. Smith felt that the new watershed approach using the Total Daily Maximum Load (TMDL) process would help the states to work on the real sources of pollution which include municipalities but also sources such as old mine agriculture etc instead of placing most of the burden on municipalities alone.

Tom Howard, Executive Director California State Water Resources Control Board.

Pamela Creedon, Executive Director Central Valley Regional Water Resources Control Board.

Tom Howard made the presentation for both the state and regional boards. Made a comparison of the 1970’s when the Clean Water Act was passed forcing states to install secondary systems and recent history where the states are being pushed to tertiary systems. In the 70’s there was a generous grant system of under certain circumstances up to 97% to help facilitate the upgrades. The grant system was replaced with a loan system in the 1980’s the tertiary systems are expensive but manageable with the right economy of scale.

When the recording becomes available I suggest you take advantage of it. Even the public comments had good information.

McClintock & Herger Wastewater Forum.

2010-09-28T12:16:00.000-07:00

Note this was cross posted at The Weimarian. Since the forum covered both state and federal regulatory processes I thought that it might be of interest here as well.

I wanted to get a quick thumbnail sketch of the forum went. Later this week I plan to post something with more detail. Congressman McClintock stated that the event would be recorded and entered in the congressional record as soon as possible.

The committee included Congressman Tom McClintock, Congressman Wally Herger, State Senator Sam Aanestad and Assemblyman Dan Logue. It lasted two hours and they rigorously kept to the agenda. They actually had a timer hold up colored signs to notify presenters that could not see the lectern lights of their allotted five minute times. Members of the public were strictly held to three minutes at the lectern.

The room was full and the audience was well represented with local community leaders I sat behind two members of the Colfax City Council and the City Manager. I also bumped into Supervisor Jim Holmes and Councilman Mike Holmes.

The forum was to look into both state and federal regulations. During the opening comments McClintock spoke out against arbitrary regulations and third party court actions. Senator Aanestad mentioned that foothill waste water has to be cleaner than drinking water in Los Angeles County. Aanestad also said that wastewater issues were the one topic that took up most of his offices time. Assemblyman Logue said that the regulating agencies keep the fines instead of using them for infrastructure and that its part of a hidden hostile agenda.

The first panel consisted of people representing various local agencies. Each panelist provided testimony as to their particular problems while providing examples of specific situations. Topics ranged from third party lawsuits to one size fit all policy.

The second panel consisted agency representatives from the EPA, for the first five minutes with the State Water Resources Control Board and the Central Valley Regional Water Quality Board sharing the last five minutes.

The remainder of the forum was allocated to public comment with about eight to ten people taking advantage of it. The general feeling from the very beginning to end is that there are real problems with the regulatory processes that need legislative attention.

Wastewater Issues Forum with Tom McClintock and Wally Herger

2010-09-25T09:35:00.000-07:00

This forum is not about the AB885 regulations which we are still waiting for the official and final word from the SWRCB on. Some of the people who read here are interested in the general topic so I thought that I would post the notice. You can get more details of the event at The Weimarian.

Wastewater Issues Forum

Monday, September 27th at 10:00 AM

Placer County Board of Supervisors Chamber

175 Fulweiler Avenue, Auburn

Whats in the works

2010-05-07T19:07:00.000-07:00

Here is what I have been told by a very good source. Once again let me say that this is just the direction that things are going but they still could change. The state monitoring of septic pumping/testing and well testing is not part of the new plan. Existing septic systems that are properly permitted and functioning are exempt from action. As we have been told before there will be three tiers, low risk, enhanced protection and nitrate or pathogen impacted waters.

The only tier that would affect existing systems would be tier three which is only in effect if we have known impacted waters. My opinion is that this is a good thing I like clean water and so does just about every one else. If we are known to be creating a problem we should do something about it.

The counties will have to collect data and prepare reports to the Regional Water Boards but they will get their data from collection methods that do not involve routine across the board testing. Data already exists from public water systems testing, new well testing and real estate transfer testing just to name a few of the sources. The counties will be able to have their own ordinances subject to approval from their Regional Water Boards.

Hopefully a Conceptual Approach will be outlined at public workshops in June. If they have one nearby you can bet that I will try to be there. If all goes well we might see a draft in summer with the process for public comments following.

To get on the SWRCB’s official mailing list for this subject go to their Email List Subscription Form, fill your email address and name into the boxes. Scroll down to AB 885 Onsite Regs and check the box next to it. Finally go back up to the top of the page and click the Subscribe button that is next to the boxes that you filled in.

I will close by saying that so far the direction is a good one but it can still change. For that reason we will continue to track things until the regulations are complete.

(Cross posted at The Weimarian)

Quick Note

2010-05-06T21:10:00.000-07:00

I did have an opportunity to sit in on a meeting where we got an update as to what the new proposed regulations might look like. I will write something more detailed about it in the next day or two I need a bit of time to compile my notes. So far it looks as it did in the last post with a tiered system managed by the local county using a plan prepared by the local county and has to be approved by the Regional Water Boards. It is really important to bear in mind that at this stage all is still subject to change. We may see something out for public viewing in June. Check back for more details over the weekend.

AB885 Here is what Jim Holmes referred to at the last BOS meeting

2010-04-17T07:55:00.000-07:00

Summary
On April 8, 2010, the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) convened a
meeting with RCRC, California State Association of Counties (CSAC) and the California
Association of Realtors (CAR) to present the SWRCB’s “concept proposal” for
implementation of AB 885. Representatives from the California Council of Directors of
Environmental Health (CCDEH) were also in attendance at this meeting. Although no
formal positions were put forward, those in attendance recognized the SWRCB’s latest
proposal is a significant improvement over prior regulatory initiatives and indicated
support for the SWRCB’s plan to move forward with the solicitation of public comments
on their current proposal.

RCRC
Update on the State Water Resources Control Board’s “Concept Proposal”
for the Implementation of AB 885

(Cross posted at The Weimarian.)

A three tiered system?

2010-04-06T09:36:00.000-07:00

Of course as soon as I post that I do not have an update I pick up a few updates. According to the SWRCB they are still working on the draft and do not have a date. Having said that I just saw an update at our county Board of Supervisors meeting where one Supervisor said that late April or May is possible. I have also heard from two sources that a three tiered system is being entertained. The tiers would range from no action to vigorous action based on the environmental impact of the situation. Tier one at least would not require any proactive measure such as routine testing. Once again I stress that this is just what is being talked about and we won't know how this will end up until we get the official word from the SWRCB.

Still waiting

2010-04-05T16:15:00.000-07:00

March has come and gone but we still haven't heard anything on an updated eta for new draft regulations. We have asked several of our local officials to let us know if they hear anything. As soon as we get more information we will post it here.

It's looking like March

2010-02-06T17:19:00.000-08:00

I called Assemblyman Gaines office and spoke with a very helpful staffer. By the time of my last post they had not yet received a reply from the SWRCB to their request for an update. They followed up the matter and had the answer by the time that I called. The new plan is to present a draft to the SWRCB in March and the information released to the public soon after. Once again I would like to thank Assemblyman Gaines office for staying on top of the regulatory process.

Nothing new

2010-02-02T18:09:00.000-08:00

The last information that we have seen is that Assemblyman Ted Gaines had written a letter to the state water board requesting a status update. We have seen nothing since then. We will update when we see something new

AB 885 regs may not be out until November or longer

2009-09-20T13:15:00.000-07:00

"We are not expecting to see the review of that until November," Dave Clegern, Water Board spokesman said. But even the chance of review in November is not a sure thing, he added.

Ukiah Daily Journal
Septic tank regs may be reviewed

AB 580 Passes to the Senate

2009-06-04T09:18:00.000-07:00

Blog Amador
Huber Septic Bill Passes Assembly

KNCO
A Bill Giving Local Control of Septic Systems to Counties has Passed the State Assembly

Here is a link with AB 580 information

2009-05-07T14:32:00.000-07:00

Personally this bill looks a bit weak to me. I would have wished for something with more specific direction to the board. If the board comes up with an acceptable DEIR AB 580 will not be needed.

AB 580 (Huber) Onsite sewage treatment systems

Looks like we should keep a close eye on the waterboard and AB580

2009-04-26T11:03:00.000-07:00

Redding Record Searchlight: Septic tank legislation sparks partisan squabble

If the water officials don't come back later this summer with relaxed restrictions and allow local officials to dictate septic clean-up efforts, the committee will move ahead with Huber's bill, Chesbro said.

"If somebody has a working septic tank ... with no pollution, then there shouldn't be any new burden on them," Chesbro said.

Looks like AB 580 is the next backup plan

2009-04-17T11:40:00.000-07:00

The new bill, AB 580, would allow local jurisdictions to adopt their own standards as necessary. That makes more sense when some areas deal with septic tank contamination and others don’t, Logue said.

Nevada County Union: Assemblyman Logue revives septic bill

Once again thanks to

2009-04-17T05:50:00.000-07:00

Ted Gaines, Jim Neilsen, Dan Logue and Alyson Huber.

Redding Record Searchlight: Beverly Hills doesn't rely on septic tanks

Press release from Wesley Chesbro

2009-04-16T15:29:00.000-07:00

Chesbro: Water Board starting over with clean slate on septic rules

Press release from Alyson Huber

2009-04-16T07:09:00.000-07:00

Here is a link to a press release from the author of AB 580 Alyson Huber.

Alyson Huber: Huber Legislation Addressing Proposed Septic Tank Regulations Passes First Committee

Press Release from Jim Neilson

2009-04-16T06:54:00.000-07:00

An anonymous commenter left this link for us to view. It is interesting reading. According to folks on the committee the septic issue brought a huge amount of feedback.

Jim Nielsen:Nielsen Sees Septic Tank Rebellion Brewing

Auburn Journal's take on yesterday's hearing

2009-04-15T06:09:00.000-07:00

Auburn Journal
Assemblyman’s septic bill slips down the drain

Update from the hearing

2009-04-14T14:40:00.000-07:00

I listened to a podcast of the committee hearing and here is the quick rundown.

The committee went for AB 580 (Huber).
AB 916 (Logue) there were some amendments so Logue is now
supporting AB 580.
AB 268 (Gaines) will not get out of committee.
AB 1371(Smyth) will be held in committee.

My thanks to Ted Gaines for listening to his constituents moving quickly and putting so much work into this effort. This was a great example of the grass roots making the system work for better government. Now lets see how the details roll out on AB 580.

Updates

2009-04-13T16:56:00.000-07:00

Here is a bit more on the bills being reviewed tomorrow.

TSPN TV Assembly Bill 885: Septic Regulations

Lake County News: Chesbro requests progress report on revised AB 885 septic rules

You will have to look for the bills in this list for a very brief run down them. The ones that alter the Porter-Cologne Water Quality Control Act are:

CA AB 268 Gaines (R)
CA AB 580 Huber (D)
CA AB 916 Logue (R)
CA AB 1371 Smyth (R)

CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH ADMINISTRATORS:
Legislative Report: March 6, 2009

The Hearing is tomorrow

2009-04-13T11:06:00.000-07:00

COMMITTEE HEARINGS:

(Here is the meeting information. It looks like a third modification bill was introduced that I didn't catch. I will post more information on AB 580 in a bit.)

http://www.assembly.ca.gov/committee_hearings/stand_comm_hearing.asp

ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY AND TOXIC MATERIALS
CHESBRO, Chair

1:30 p.m. -Room 444

SPECIAL ORDER OF BUSINESS

Measure: Author: Summary:

A.B. No. 268 Gaines. Onsite sewage treatment systems.

A.B. No. 580 Huber. Onsite sewage treatment systems.

A.B. No. 916 Logue. Onsite sewage treatment systems: recommended
standards.

BILLS WILL BE HEARD WITH SIGN-IN ORDER

Measure: Author: Summary:

Keep the pressure on. We can do this!

2009-04-04T20:16:00.000-07:00

Auburn Journal: Assemblyman Ted Gaines' septic bill faces test on April 14

Gaines said his call for people to write and phone committee members has been effective, particularly from areas with rural constituents.

Ted Gaines needs your help

2009-03-23T15:01:00.000-07:00

Auburn Journal: Gaines rallies septic system inspection opposition

Gaines said that it’s important that members of the committee headed by Assemblyman Wesley Chesbro, D-Eureka, hear from Bill 268 supporters first-hand “how costly the current regulations will be.”

Just Chill until April

2009-03-21T09:45:00.000-07:00

The SWRCB will not have a new draft for review until April. Details at the link below.

State Water Resources Control Board
FACT SHEET ON PROPOSED SEPTIC SYSTEM REGULATIONS

Strong opinion on AB 885

2009-03-12T07:00:00.000-07:00

Santa Maria Times: Rules hit homeowners and farmers

The people of California must protect their property and civil rights by paying attention to abuses by their regulatory boards, since AB 885 revisions are just the icing on a fee-generating cake. To those who wonder how the state got into its current mess, here’s just one culprit, and we continue to regulate our way deeper into the hole.

Placer County will send a letter endorsing AB 268

2009-03-11T09:00:00.000-07:00

Bloggers note: Thank You Ted Gaines

Auburn Journal: Supervisors support rollback of septic-system inspections

The Gaines bill would remove the financial burdens coming from inspections and the possibility of expensive upgrades, Pahl told supervisors. At the same time, AB 268 would ensure public health through existing local and state water-quality protections, she said.

New Legislation from Dan Logue AB 916

2009-03-03T06:23:00.000-08:00

KNCO: Assemblyman Logue Introduces Fix for Septic Regulations

North State Assemblyman Dan Logue announced that he is carrying legislation, A-B 916, to require the State Water Resources Control Board to go back to the drawing board on septic regulations developed in response to AB 885.

Regional Council of Rurual Counties letter opposing the proposed regulations

2009-02-25T08:03:00.000-08:00

Regional Council of Rural Counties : OWTS Proposed Regulations/Final Cover letter for RCRC Comments

The Regional Council of Rural Counties (RCRC) is an organization representing the collective interests of 30 rural counties throughout California. Because implementation of the AB 885 regulations as currently proposed would have long-lasting and profound adverse impacts on our member counties, RCRC appreciates this opportunity to express our serious concerns about the proposed AB 885 regulations. Over the past eight years, RCRC has been an active participant in the AB 885 rule-making process and we are disappointed to find that the current regulatory proposal fails to meaningfully address many of the key concerns and suggestions that have been previously brought forward.

The California State Association of Counties (CSAC) is on board opposing the DEIR

2009-02-25T07:54:00.000-08:00

CSAC: Letter of Comment on the Proposed Rule-Making Package for AB 885
Regulation of Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (OWTS)

The California State Association of Counties (CSAC), an organization that is governed by elected officials from all 58 counties, continues to remain extremely concerned with the proposed AB 885 Regulation. We also share the disappointment expressed by the Regional Council of Rural Counties (RCRC) that the proposed regulations fail to meaningfully address the concerns and comments previously raised by our member counties. Given the adverse impacts that these regulations will have on counties and their residents, CSAC urges you and members of the board to work with our organizations in developing an alternative approach that appropriately recognizes the unique conditions, climates and needs of California’s counties and moves away from the proposed one-size-fits-all approach.

Add Lake County to the opposition list

2009-02-25T07:40:00.000-08:00

At the bottom of this article on a BOS action about water conservation is a tidbit about AB 885

Lake County News: Supervisors approve water conservation resolution

The board also unanimously supported a resolution Comstock brought forward that opposed the state's proposed regulations on septic tank systems, based on AB 885.

A bill to scrap a set of burdensome regulations is one place to save the state money.

2009-02-19T11:28:00.000-08:00

Redding Record Searchlight: Simple fix to septic dust-up: Repeal the law

Faced with an uproar from rural residents over a proposal for strict new statewide septic system regulations, Assemblyman Jim Nielsen has a simple solution: Wad up the law and flush it down the toilet.

Kings County drafted a resolution to oppse the current septic regulations

2009-02-17T21:07:00.000-08:00

Kings County Board of Supervisors: Action Summary January 27, 2009

ACTION: APPROVED AS PRESENTED (O/V-U)
2. Consider adopting a Resolution opposing the draft regulations implementing AB 885, which
proposes a statewide waiver and other requirements for onsite wastewater treatment septic
systems, as being beyond the authority of Section 13291 and as imposing onerous requirements
and exactions of County residents and property owners.[Reso #09-002]
ACTION: APPROVED AS PRESENTED (B/F-U)

El Dorado County opposes current draft of septic regulations

2009-02-15T13:26:00.000-08:00

El Dorado County: MINUTES Board Of Supervisors

After hearing testimony, a motion was made by Supervisor Sweeney, seconded
by Supervisor Knight, as follows:

1) Authorize Chairman to sign letter for submittal to the State Water Resources
Control Board by February 23, 2009 regarding AB 885 onsite wastewater
treatment systems (OWTS) proposed regulations and Draft Environmental
Impact Report, citing issues as described in the analysis of the impacts;

2) Direct Environmental Management staff to continue to work with Regional
Council of Rural Counties (RCRC), California State Association of Counties
(CSAC), California Conference of Directors of Environmental Health (CCDEH)
and State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) with the goal of
developing a reasonable set of minimum standards for OWTS strictly
applicable to jurisdictions where the degradation of water quality has been
scientifically proven to be caused by OWTS, while recognizing that many
jurisdictions already have adequate OWTS regulations;

3) Direct the Environmental Management staff to provide periodic updates to
the Board as this issue is addressed;

4) Authorize other actions that the Board deems appropriate, possibly
including the presence of interested members of the Board of Supervisors or
their designee to appear when the SWRCB holds the public hearing; and

5) Support legislation to repeal AB 885. (See next page for second motion.)
Yes: 5 - Knight, Sweeney, Nutting, Briggs and Santiago

Ted Gaines takes a shot at AB 885

2009-02-12T20:09:00.000-08:00

Rocklin & Roseville Today: Bill to repeal septic tank regulations introduced

SACRAMENTO-- Assemblyman Ted Gaines, R--Roseville, introduced Assembly Bill 268 to repeal a controversial state law requiring residents with septic tanks to pay costly inspection fees.

Amador County is on board

2009-02-12T15:43:00.000-08:00

Amador Ledger dispatch: Impending septic tank regulations prompt stern letter from county

"the Amador County Board of Supervisors strongly opposes adoption of regulations and waiver in their present form."

This is a must read. They admit that these regulations are a fishing expedition.

2009-02-12T06:59:00.000-08:00

The Daily Triplicate: Septic tank rules fought

Almost any activist that opposes these regulations believes in clean water and would support regulations that honestly attain that goal. We just feel that these regulations are not the correct way to accomplish clean water. Below a spokesman for the waterboard tells you just what these regulations were designed to do. They are designed to find out "if there is a problem".

David Clegern, a spokesman for the state agency, said the board has already announced it is rewriting the regulations in response to the public outcry.

“We do understand that Eureka and Malibu are different places,” Clegern said. “It’s a very touchy subject and we understand that.”

One of the main reasons the Water Resources Control Board wants to change the regulations, he said, is to assist in building a database made from the continual monitoring of septic systems by property owners that will alert the board to any changes in the water environment due to pollution

“These standards and regulations are essentially designed to give us a baseline,” Clegern said, “so we can tell when there’s a problem, if there’s a problem and where there’s a problem

SWRCB gets a piece of Northwest California opinion

2009-02-10T07:39:00.000-08:00

Santa Rosa Press Democrat: Nearly 1,700 people turn out in Santa Rosa to blast septic tank requirements

“We will take a crack at revising the regulations and send it out again,” said Tam Doduc, board chairwoman. “I can’t tell you how, but they will be revised.”

City of Auburn Opposes Proposed Regulations

2009-02-10T07:29:00.000-08:00

Auburn Journal: City Council passes resolution against septic regs

Fellow Councilman Kirby, who holds a master’s degree in microbiology, does not consider septic tank waste to be a problem in Placer County and said water contamination from animal waste poses a larger threat.

400 turn out for the midday meeting in Santa Rosa, there is another at 05:00 pm

2009-02-09T15:13:00.000-08:00

Santa Rosa:Press Democrat: Hundreds turn out to voice concern over septic tank requirements

A crowd of about 400 turned out this afternoon for the begining of a hearing on controversial proposals for regulating septic tanks in rural areas.

California Grange opposition

2009-02-09T12:46:00.000-08:00

California State Grange: Testimony in opposition to AB 885 draft regulations per Ab 885

In many parts of the state the depth to groundwater is greater than 100 feet, and in other areas with shallower groundwater, there are aquitards that physically block the movement of ground water. Under these conditions, the migration pathway between the surface soils where a septic system is in place and the groundwater is incomplete and the migration of contaminants from a septic system to the groundwater is a physical impossibility.

Placer-Nevada County Medical Society Letter

2009-02-09T10:58:00.000-08:00

Placer-Nevada County Medical Society: Comments on Proposed Amendments...

The health and well being of our patients and other residents of our communities are of the utmost concern to us. We are convinced that the draft regulations as currently distributed create an unnecessary financial burden on the residents of the community and county services with inadequate scientific basis of having any positive health impact.

Lets see what they are saying in Sonoma County

2009-02-08T16:05:00.000-08:00

Point Reyes Light: Region unites against septic tank regs

Randy Leach, manager of the well and septic division of Sonoma County’s permit and resource management department who attended a 2005 meeting, told the Light at the time: “The basic assumption that septic systems are contaminating the environment is false

Madera County approves a letter opposing current regulations

2009-02-05T16:30:00.000-08:00

Tom Wheeler - Supervisor, District 5: Assembly Bill 885

Madera County unanimously approved a resolution on February 3rd opposing the regulations unless significantly amended. The resolution will be posted soon.

County of San Benito is added to the list

2009-02-05T13:20:00.000-08:00

Hollister Free Lance: County opposes state's proposed septic tank rules

The board requested that staff talk with Regional Council of Rural Counties and then write up a resolution to send to the county's two legislative representatives, the governor and the state water board.

County of Modoc letter to the water board

2009-02-05T10:31:00.000-08:00

Modoc County Health Services: Letter to the State Water Resource Control Board

Modoc County has an OWTS failure rate of less than 1% using conventional systems. The conversion of installing non-conventional systems for new development will only lead to a higher failure rates, increased cost, increased management, increased illegal repairs, and increased risk to public health as well as the environment

Mariposa County posted a letter for its residents to use in opposition of the new regulations

2009-02-05T08:54:00.000-08:00

So it looks like we can add Mariposa to the opposition list

County of Mariposa: Ab 885 Letter With Directions

Local regulation of On-site Wastewater Treatment Systems (O.W.T.S.) and groundwater protection are much more efficient than state-wide regulations attempting to cover widely different conditions such as areas with impaired water and areas with no documented impairment, areas with ocean water concerns and areas (such as the Sierras) with none, etc. This is an issue of Efficiency in Government

Plumas County opposes new regulations

2009-02-04T13:04:00.000-08:00

Plumas County News: Supervisors say new septic rules stink

The letter argued the legislation, which changes rules related to septic tanks and wells, was poorly written, ill conceived, and would unfairly burden Plumas County citizens.

Add Santa Cruz County to the list

2009-02-04T06:21:00.000-08:00

Santa Cruz Sentinel: New state septic regs mean home inspections, additional costs

John Ricker, the county's water director, notes that many of the state demands simply don't make sense, like a requirement to upgrade systems within 600 feet of a stream or river where the county has already mandated changes.

See what Butte,Calaveras,Del Norte,Napa, Nevada, Placer,Shasta, Trinity, Tuolumne counties have to say about the new regulations.

2009-02-01T10:39:00.000-08:00

Regional Conference of Rural Counties: County Comment Letters

League of Placer County Taxpayers is aware of the problem

2009-02-01T06:04:00.000-08:00

AJ (LTE): Join with League in battling septic system fees

The League of Placer County Taxpayers is aware of the problem and will be pursuing the issue. We will need all the help we can get from everyone; our dedicated members, new members, the general public and from donations. Unfortunately fighting issues like this has a price.

Mendocino County Opposing New Septic Regulations

2009-01-31T16:31:00.000-08:00

MENDOCINO COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS:SUMMARY/ACTION MINUTES – JANUARY 13, 2009

Board members recommended the County’s comment to the State reflect the County’s strong opposition to the regulations as presented, incorporating information from the letters from Mr. Rau and the Mendocino County Farm Bureau, specifically, that “one size does not fit all,” also stating the regulations are cost prohibitive and will be ineffective for our area. It was further recommended that language be included encouraging the State to identify specific problem areas and address those areas, rather than imposing state-wide regulations, and further, insist that local hearings be scheduled.

Supervisor Brown recommended the Board Chair personally testify in Sacramento if the request for local workshops is not honored, further recommending that County Counsel look into litigation, including “takings” and “unfunded mandates

It appears the Town of Paradise wasn't the only one with concerns over the State Water Resources

2009-01-31T08:07:00.000-08:00

Paradise Post: Septic bill is put on hold by board

It appears the Town of Paradise wasn't the only one with concerns over the State Water Resources Control Board's planned septic law. The State Water Resources Control Board, Division of Water Quality placed planned septic regulations, AB 885, on hold this week, according to North State Assemblyman Dan Logue.

The official word from Ted Gaine

2009-01-31T08:03:00.000-08:00

Ted Gaines: Assemblyman Gaines to introduce measure to repeal costly septic tank regulations

"It's time for the Legislature to give local communities the freedom from septic tank regulations that are unnecessary and painful for families," Gaines said. "That's why I plan to introduce legislation to repeal Assembly Bill 885 and continue fighting hard this year to give local governments like Placer County the responsibility to set regulations that make sense for the constituents they serve."

Bloggers note: You may want to let your Assembly Representative know that you support Ted Gaines.

New Revised workshop and hearing schedule

2009-01-30T14:47:00.000-08:00

State Water Resources Control Board: NEW DATES AND TIMES FOR SANTA ROSA WORKSHOP, POSTPONEMENT OF SACRAMENTO HEARING, AND EXTENSION OF COMMENT PERIOD

The Santa Rosa workshop on proposed septic systems regulations to implement Assembly Bill 885 has been rescheduled for February 9, 2009. The Sacramento hearing on the regulations (originally set for February 9) is postponed and will be rescheduled once the regulations have been redrafted. A new notice will be provided when it is rescheduled. The public comment period on the proposed regulations is extended by two weeks to February 23, 2009. The changes described below do not change the scope of the workshop and hearing as originally announced.

Tehama County adds itself to the growing list of counties opposing the new regulations

2009-01-30T14:44:00.000-08:00

Red Bluff Daily News Tehama County Board eyes septic issues

This week, the Tehama County Board of Supervisors unanimously voted to send a letter to the California State Water Resources Control Board expressing county concerns over new septic tank rules introduced by AB 885, which would require $325 septic tank inspections every five years and a $325 inspection of nearby wells at the same time.

Ted Gaines has it right

2009-01-30T05:38:00.000-08:00

Auburn Journal: Repeal septic system inspection legislation: Ted Gaines

Assemblyman Ted Gaines, R-Roseville, offered to take Placer County residents’ concerns to the state Capitol and propose repealing Assembly Bill 885 – the legislation whose implementation is raising hackles throughout the state among septic system users

Another big crowd in Fresno

2009-01-29T19:47:00.000-08:00

Sierra Star: Septic proposals get crowd's attention

As expected, the Fresno Unified School District board room was jammed last Thursday as the State Water Resources Control Board conducted a workshop/hearing on proposed septic and well system regulations. The room holds 149 people and the crowd was so big, folks were sitting in the aisles and standing against the wall.

It looks like we have made an impact

2009-01-29T19:19:00.000-08:00

I dropped by Ted Gaines town hall meeting tonight and picked up a few tidbits. The February 09 meeting in Sacramento has been canceled and the public hearing period has been extended for an indefinite period of time. Gaines and other local state officials will attempt to repeal AB885.

Colfax area residents and their supervisor stand against new septic regulations

2009-01-29T09:53:00.001-08:00

Colfax Record : Owners oppose proposed septic regulations

“We’re on your side,” Montgomery concluded. She added other rural counties and agencies throughout the state are also organizing protests against the proposed regulations.

Assemblyman Ted Gaines steps up to the plate

2009-01-29T09:47:00.000-08:00

Sac Bee: Assemblyman Gaines hopes to repeal septic legislation

Assemblyman Ted Gaines will announce tonight that he hopes to repeal legislation that could force regulation of septic systems in the state.

Crowds to large to handle when the state hit Sonoma County

2009-01-28T13:20:00.000-08:00

Santa Rosa Press Democrat: State to set new septic hearing
A hearing tonight in Eureka was originally scheduled to be the last of eight workshops on the new regulations. The new rules have attracted opposition across the state from rural property owners who say they would impose unnecessary expenses on their septic systems and amount to a taking away property rights.

Placer County BOS adds itself to the list opposing proposed AB 885 regulations

2009-01-27T21:27:00.000-08:00

Granite Bay Press Tribune:
Placer County Board of Supervisors opposes California septic system inspections, fees

Add PCWA to the very long list of organizations against California's proposed septic regulations.

2009-01-27T13:35:00.000-08:00

Note: I was just at the Placer County Board of Supervisors meeting and every member spoke out against the new proposed regulations.

Auburn Journal: Thumbs down on state septic-system inspection plan: Placer County Water Agency

Placer County Board of Supervisors to get AB 885 presentation today

2009-01-27T07:07:00.000-08:00

Its on the agenda for 11:00

From the gateway to Yosemite

2009-01-26T08:44:00.000-08:00

Oakhurst Real Estate Blog:
Proposed AB 885 Septic and Well Testing Requirements Burdensome and Costly

"if enacted, these regulations will make it too burdensome to own a property with a septic system"

2009-01-26T08:35:00.000-08:00

Brendan Coen's Real Estate Blog: AB 885 Public Meetings

President of the League of Placer County Taxpayers Wally Reemelin on the septic regulations

2009-01-25T06:46:00.000-08:00

Auburn Journal: Another Vew: Solution searching for a problem

The California Water Resources Control Board has recently proposed drastic new restrictions (A3 385) on septic tanks and on private water wells with resulting high costs to owners and users.

I think this entire regulation is too much and too heavy handed

2009-01-24T21:09:00.000-08:00

The Willits news: Septic rules taking form

The proposed regulations have drawn the attention of the California Farm Bureau and its regional entities. Humboldt County Farm Bureau Executive Director Katherine Ziemer said that while she wants to see clean water protected, she's concerned about the blanket approach the state water board is taking, which would cover essentially all of the bureau's agricultural members. The regular inspections and standards seem to be “overkill,” Ziemer said, and the bureau intends to closely participate in the final outcome of the regulations.

”I think this entire regulation is too much and too heavy handed,” Ziemer said.

Ted Gaines wants your input.

2009-01-23T19:05:00.001-08:00

Assemblyman Ted Gaines will be hosting a public townhall meeting to discuss sewer and septic issues prior to the Feb. 9 public comment deadline. Details:

Townhall Meeting
Thursday, January 29, 2009, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Placer County Board of Supervisors Chambers (The Domes)
175 Fulweiler Ave., Auburn, CA.
For more information: 916-774-4430

The California Association of Realtors releases a Red Alert.

2009-01-23T18:57:00.000-08:00

Sierra Star: Realtors oppose AB885

The California Association of Realtors (C.A.R.) released a Red Alert Jan. 7 regarding regulations for onsite wastewater treatment systems (OWTS) -- otherwise known as septic systems -- being proposed in AB885. C.A.R. is concerned that, if enacted, these regulations will make it too costly and burdensome to own a property with a septic system. In Madera County, we have almost 20,000 housing units on septic.

Placer County Environmental Health Director Jill Pahl

2009-01-23T15:04:00.000-08:00

From the Loomis News
Pahl calls the law “fatally flawed,” because the “regulations have way overstepped the original good intentions.” Pahl said Assembly Bill 885 was passed in 2000 to protect the state’s groundwater supply.

You can read the entire article at the Loomis News site.

Trinity County Building and Development Services to the State Water Resources Control Board.

2009-01-23T13:40:00.001-08:00

Here is the last paragraph of the letter.

"Trinity County respectfully requests to be included in an exemption from
these regulations as setforth in AB 885 along with all other rural counties under the same situation."

You can read the letter in total here.

The time to act is now

2009-01-23T10:32:00.000-08:00

Rural California is about to be over regulated by an over reaching government agency. AB885 was a well intentioned law that is resulting in the proposal of some very poor and expensive implementation. Even in counties where there is no evidence of contamination and records show only a 0.2% failure rate of septic systems all the septic systems would have to be inspected at the estimated rate of $325.00 per inspection and if you have a domestic well on that property add a well inspection every five years also and another $325.00 charge. Those are just the inspection fees. You can read about the details here at the California State Water Resources Control Board site. We have a very short time to act before these "Fatally Flawed" regulations are implemented. It is time for immediate action, contact the state water board.

State Water Resources Control Board
Division of Water Quality
Attn: Todd Thompson, P.E.
1001 I Street, 15th Floor, P.0. Box 2231
Sacramento, Ca. 95812

Or by email: ab885@waterboards.ca.gov

For more information:
http://www.waterboards.ca.gov/water_issues/programs/septic_tanks/