Commission issues determination for septic upgrade at 178 Shadhole Road

Dan Ojala, a surveyor and civil engineer with On Cape Engineering, told the Commission the existing septic and leach pit at 178 Shadhole Road in Dennisport had failed because it was too close to groundwater and that the proposal calls for a pressure-dosed IA system lifted about 4 feet above adjusted groundwater.

"It's a very old septic tank and leach pit that's, was failed because it's too close to ground water," Ojala said, and described the work as a full upgrade with pressure dosing and an IA system. He told the board the property is "flood zone only" and that nitrogen sensitivity is low at that site.

Commissioners questioned whether the proposed grading and dewatering during construction could affect adjacent properties; Ojala said dewatering (if required) would be directed to a surface recharge area and that the design includes swales and other measures to keep roof runoff and construction discharge on site.

After questions from board members and confirmation that the project will proceed to the Board of Health for any variances required by Title 5, a member moved and the Commission recorded a determination (positive 5 language was used during discussion) and closed the public hearing.

Action and next steps: The Commission closed the hearing and issued the determination; the project must obtain any necessary Board of Health variances and meet conditions the Commission places in the draft order. Staff will prepare the permit language for the Commission to confirm.