Commission raises concerns about sewer connection and holding-tank option for ASACG Holdings project

Commissioners on Jan. 27 discussed problems a local developer, identified as ASACG Holdings, has faced connecting to sewer lines for its HALT Pro facility.

Staff explained the originally proposed connection to a private lift station (for PDQ) is not feasible, and the developer was directed to a lift station near WA Jones that is farther away. Staff estimated roughly $30,000 to connect to that alternative. The mayor, staff said, asked whether the commission would consider allowing a temporary holding tank for effluent until a permanent sewer tie-in could be completed.

The health official (speaker 6) said state law permits holding tanks but the county lacks an ordinance to regulate them. "Generally, I'm opposed to holding tanks for anybody including our businesses, commercial entities," the health speaker said, noting enforcement, permitting and alarm requirements the county would need to impose. He recommended, if a holding tank were allowed, requiring an annual permit, access for inspections, alarm systems and a contractual obligation to connect to sewer when feasible.

Several commissioners said they were reluctant to establish a precedent that would lead to many holding tanks countywide. The chair asked staff to consult with the mayor and the property owner and return with options; commissioners stressed preserving working relationships with the city while protecting public-health enforcement capacity.

Next steps: staff will meet with the mayor and property owner and return to the commission with recommendations on whether and how to modify the economic-development agreement or require a contract to govern any temporary holding-tank arrangement.