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- Construct new sewer main to alleviate aging septic system
- Replace existing water main to increase efficiency, reduce maintenance and deliver
high quality water |
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Project Overview: At the City Council meeting on July 21, 2009, the Council approved award of the contract for construction of the 2009 Emergency Sewer Program to Universal Land Construction Inc. of Woodinville, WA. This program will provide 50 sanitary sewer connections to properties that either have a failing system, or are currently on septic and at risk of experiencing a failure because of system age and/or soil conditions. Providing these connections to sanitary sewer will allow residents the option to hook into the system when needed without expensive and disruptive delays. Providing sanitary sewer availability to areas of the city currently without has been a city goal since 1999, and this biannual program has to date provided 409 connections to properties on septic systems with 179 of those properties having connected helping to protect land values and water quality.
The original contract time for completion of this project was 90 working days, with an anticipated finish in December 2009. The contractor - Universal Land - has been very organized and efficient, and it is expected that the entire project will be completed ahead of schedule. We are expecting the permanent paving will occur in the summer of 2010 with the City overlay program. | |
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About Kirkland's ESP
In Kirkland, there are many properties dependent upon septic systems, many of which are aged and failing. Septic systems are intended to be a short-term solution for handling wastewater with an expected life of roughly 30 years. In order to provide long-term benefits of sanitary sewer to hazardous septic system situations, the City developed the Emergency Sewer Program in 1999.
What Can You Do If You Have A Septic Problem?
Some warning signs of a failure are:
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Odors, surfacing sewage, soggy spots with lush green grass growth in the drain field or septic tank area
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Plumbing or septic tank backups
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Slow draining fixtures
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Gurgling sounds in the plumbing system
If your system is showing these signs, your system may need servicing or replacing. For assistance, you may contact the King County Health Department at (206) 296-4932 or visit their website. They can offer advice and assistance for your failing system. They may also be helpful in getting the as-built drawings showing the location of your septic system on your property (not all records are complete and older systems may not have as-builts).
How Does the City Determine New Project Areas?
When starting a new ESP project, we contact property owners with septic systems using mailers, announcements, the City web site, cable TV channel, etc. We also hold public “open house” meetings that allow for residents to come share their concerns and septic issues with City staff. Information is gathered and assessed to determine the best area for the new project. Factors that help determine ESP project areas include the number and severity of septic problems in any one area and the interest shown by the neighbors in the surrounding community.
Emergency Sewer Program Financing Information
There are several costs associated with connecting to an "emergency sewer" main line. Listed below are frequently asked questions regarding the ESP costs and financing:
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Sewer Main Line – property owners benefiting from the ESP must begin to reimburse the City their portion (calculated as "Total Project Cost ÷ Number of Benefiting Property Owners") within 10-20 years after construction completion, depending on connection status. An ESP loan may be obtained from the City.
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Side Sewer Construction – It is the property owner’s responsibility to hire a private contractor to construct the side sewer to their home. These costs are not included in the ESP loan. A side sewer permit is required to initiate side sewer construction. Check the Yellow Pages under "Utility Contractors" or "Plumbing Contractors" for local companies who do side sewer construction work and to get an estimate.
The total budget for the 2009 ESP is $1,400,000. Exact costs will be determined once the project is complete. The cost for one assessment in 2007 was $19,864, and construction trends show each program year assessment increases by approximately 25%. Some parcels may be subdividable and would be charged multiple assessments based on the square footage of the lot.
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City Fees–Fees associated with connecting to sewer are a monthly residential sewer rate fee based on water consumption for the months of November through April, City inspection of new side sewer ($400), sewer capital facility charge (currently $3,056 for single family residence), and abandoned septic tank inspection ($58).
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Other Fees – Because King County treats Kirkland’s wastewater, they have a capacity charge impact fee as well. For a current fee schedule, see King County's website or call (206) 684-1740.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Emergency Sewer Program
What is the interest rate charge for the ESP Loan?
Currently, the interest rate for ESP loans is calculated to be 95% of the U.S. Treasury Bill. For those who choose to go on a payment plan to repay the loan, a statement is sent out once a year for payment for 10 years until the loan is fulfilled.
Will this loan show as a lien against my property?
Yes. A lien will be filed by the City and placed on your property’s title. This means that if you sell your home, the loan will have to be repaid in full at that time. Your title or escrow company will contact the City to get the full payoff amount and work with you to complete the transaction.
If the main sewer line is owned and maintained by the City, why do property owners have to pay for it? Why isn't sewer considered to be part of the infrastructure like streets and be paid from our property taxes?
According to Washington State law, city-operated utilities, such as water and sewer, are budgeted separately from the city’s general fund. Current sewer fees are paid by current sewer users, or ratepayers, and those funds are to be used for operation, maintenance, and replacement of the current sewer system only. No sewer construction or operation is funded by property taxes.
Will I be assessed for ESP costs if it goes by my house but I don’t hook up?
Yes, but repayment is only required after 1) hook up; 2) sale of house; 3) lapse of 10 years since construction.
Why the initial Sewer Capital Facilities Charge (CFC) when there are monthly dues for sewer maintenance?
The one time CFC goes towards the cost of the existing sewer facilities (pump stations, transmission lines) that current ratepayers have previously funded. CFCs essentially allow new users to "pay into" the system and gain equity with ratepayers.
When will construction begin?
Construction will begin in approximately June 2009 and will be completed by the end of November 2009.
Questions or Concerns?
Aaron McDonald, P.E., Project Engineer - (425) 587-3837
Eileen Sanders, Accounting Associate IV - (425) 587-3133
Public Works Main Line – (425) 587-3800