Resolution #2011-10 Septic System Mixing Zones and Other

Cities and towns have worked many years to protect Montana’s land and water resources through wise community development policies that emphasize centralized water and sewer systems, efficient delivery of services to concentrated populations and compliance with fair and affordable environmental standards.  Recent development patterns in Montana threaten our legacy of open space and clean water.  Cities are dedicated to working with state and federal agencies to establish growth and land use policies that recognize property rights while preserving the natural assets of Montana.

The Interim Water Policy Committee and Department of Environmental Quality will recommend a bill to the 2011 Legislature that will restrict mixing zones for septic drain fields to property boundaries.  This measure is the first marker on the long road to basin-wide nutrient standards and more effective water quality regulation.  The Department will also recommend legislation to allow for the re-use of municipal wastewater, which could be another effective method of improving water quality.  The Municipal Water Quality Committee recommends an amendment to 75-5-103 MCA to limit nutrient standard compliance costs to 1% of median family income. 

Be it resolved that the League of Cities and Towns will support legislation to restrict septic drain fields to property boundaries.   

Be it also resolved that the League of Cities and Towns will support legislation to allow the Board of Environmental Review to adopt rules to allow for the re-use of municipal wastewater. 

Be it further resolved that the League of Cities and Towns will support legislation recommended by the Municipal Water Quality Committee to limit the cost of compliance with temporary nutrient criteria to 1% of median household income for the community served by the treatment works.