|
by Tony Nekut
|
|
Friday, 24 March 2006 |
A few weeks ago (3/03), I wrote a letter here expressing concern and raising questions regarding the ongoing planning for a sewer system to serve parts of the Town. Today (3/22), I attended a meeting of the Sewer Committee at the Town Hall. In addition to the committee members, a representative from the Syracuse DEC office, Steve Eidt, was present. He was invited to clarify DEC policy regarding project funding under the 1996 Bond Act. He made it clear that it was essential for the project to move forward quickly (work contracts signed) or State funding would be jeopardized.
Unfortunately, none of the committee members asked the essential question: why is the DEC insisting on a "regional solution" which is fundamentally flawed? Not only is the current plan far more expensive than a plan which utilizes a Town owned wastewater plant near Portland Point, it also leaves many downhill lakefront areas unserved.
I have questioned my own motives in doggedly pursuing this issue, and admit that my objections have been raised by others over the years to no avail. I also realize that there are other, more significant problems in the community and world, but I happened into this one. It has the same fascination as a "60 Minutes" story involving bureaucratic yes-speak and illogic. It also pains me greatly as an engineer to see a plan which requires pumping sewage 400 feet uphill just to let it run back downhill to the same elevation. This alone will cost upwards of $100,000/year in electricity and represents an absolute waste of money and energy resources. The only way I'm afraid, at this point, to change the direction this project is taking is a concerted campaign to raise public awareness so the project can be rejected in referendum. Then the community can take control, in cooperation with other signators of the Intermunicipal Wastewater Agreement, to build a sensible sewer system. The DEC is not the only source of funding out there.
Sincerely,
Tony Nekut
|
Archive News 
