I am writing to you because there is an issue that I do not feel has been explained adequately to the average Malibu resident. My concern is the upcoming changes to laws and regulations to our septic systems. We live on Point Dume and we are very supportive of protecting our local environment. This letter is not about not complying with the new wastewater standards-it is more of a request that our city help us understand what is needed. Here is my understanding of the situation.
Every home on Point Dume will be required to install a septic system that involves secondary treatment. These systems cost between $50,000 and $100,000. The new laws are based on the performance of the system after it is installed rather then stating what type of system should be installed. Homeowners will be required to have some sort of permit for their system and prove that it complies with the new laws.
When we asked the city officials what types of systems should be installed, we were told to do the research and that many of the systems have improved over the last few years. Because the law is written based on performance, if I choose wrong I am obligated to upgrade or replace the “new” system until it meets this standard.
We then asked the city if there were any low interest loan or grant programs available to fund such a major purchase. The answer we received made me think the city believes that only the rich and famous live here. “Yes there are programs like that from the Federal and State governments. However the city must apply for them and administer them and the city has no interest in acting as a loan agent.” The city is currently seeking grants and funding for a sewer treatment facility in the Civic Center that the commercial property owners will be able to hook up to in order to comply with the new laws. I do not understand how the city can find the time and resource for this facility and not do the same for the average homeowner in Malibu.
I think we need straight answers from our government. Who is affected by this new law? What systems offer the best performance vs. cost for our local conditions? What are the criteria for having your system replaced? Is it when you sell the property, or have work done on your septic or are you required to have it inspected on your own? What is the timeline? When does all of this take place? What is our city government doing to help the average tax-paying homeowner in Malibu address this issue?
Jamie Ottilie