Did you know that our Selectmen want to allow sewer connections and extensions anywhere in town so long as they decide it is “the most reasonable alternative” to on-site septic systems?
Putting aside whether this much power should rest in the hands of so few individuals, this is a huge shift in policy that will encourage exactly the kind of sprawl that Westport has tried for decades to avoid. After all, it’s not that hard to make a case that sewer is preferable to septic—even if it isn’t always true. And building sites that previously failed percolation tests, or were too small to accommodate septic systems, will suddenly now become “buildable.”
The fact is, sewers promote growth, density, commercial development, and extensive multi-family housing, all of which will put added stress on our roads, municipal services, and schools.
Our current policy only allows people who are outside the “blue line” to hook up to the sewer if it “is the only reasonable means” of mitigating an existing problem. It is a carefully crafted 7-year-old policy that balances the needs of the home or business owner who has a failed septic, against the town’s desire to prevent unchecked growth or overtax its facilities.
This new policy, however, will open the door to the kind of development that will radically and permanently change the character of this town, not to mention property values.
Our Selectmen need to step back and think about what is best for the entire town.
If you agree, then I urge you to attend the meeting on April 12th (at 7:00 P.M. in Town Hall) to speak out against this poorly conceived amendment. Alternatively, letters may be sent to the Selectman’s Office at: selectmen@westportct.gov
Valerie Seiling Jacobs
11 Compo Parkway
Westport, CT 06880
203.222.8867
