The Malibu Planning Commission heard from the public this week in regard to the draft environmental impact report for the proposed Civic Center sewer development.
The draft-EIR is the environmental impact report, which outlines how the sewer could potentially affect the area around the Civic Center.
Ten speakers addressed the commission at the end of a meeting that stretched over four hours and ended after 10:30 p.m. on Monday night.
The bulk of comments came from residents who were concerned over the possibility of toxic pollution, both in and around Webster Elementary and Our Lady of Malibu School and in the ocean where water from the sewer will be released.
Peter Shellenbarger, a staff scientist with Heal the Bay, weighed in during the public comment section of Monday’s meeting. Heal the Bay is a Santa Monica-based environmental nonprofit.
“Heal the Bay supports the concept of the Civic Center Wastewater Facility,” said Shellenbarger.
Shellenbarger added that the draft-EIR should better address impacts of percolation pond discharges, as well as assess geology and soil impacts.
In regard to the cost of the project, Commissioner Roohi Stack asked RMC Water and Environment spokesperson Steve Clary how much individual homeowners could expect to pay for the project as it moves into phases II and III, affecting residential neighborhoods.
Clary responded that a broad estimate for an “average” three-bedroom, 2-bathroom house could come in between $500 and $1000 per month for the use of the sewer. This would be a cost in perpetuity, for as long as the sewer operates.
The City is still accepting public comments on the draft-EIR, in writing, through July 28. Comments can be emailed to Senior Planner Bonnie Blue, or mailed to Malibu City Hall.