Frequently Asked Questions - General
updated 5/30/23
Who is proposing this project?
Since 1992, the Town Plan has charged the municipality with ensuring infrastructure is in place to serve the Town Center Area and the goals of the Town Plan. This includes finding a solution for municipal facilities, community facilities, existing development, and future uses in the Town Center Area. The Planning Commission has been working to find a solution to Westford’s wastewater dilemma for over 15 years. The Planning Commission is spearheading the current effort to establish a community wastewater system in the village.
Why do we need a community wastewater system for the Town Common Area?
Providing environmentally sound wastewater disposal is a critical step any property owner or community can take to ensure the viability of buildings, and to protect public and environmental health. Wastewater disposal systems and potable water supplies are governed and controlled by State statutes and rules established by the Agency of Natural Resources. Almost all changes in land use and expansions of existing uses (i.e. providing food service, adding restaurant seating, increasing bedrooms, or building an accessory dwelling) require a State wastewater and potable water supply permit. Issuance of such a permit may not be possible if the existing on-site system does not meet necessary standards and cannot be upgraded to do so. The septic systems serving civic buildings within the Town Common Area are at the end of their useful life, not in compliance with contemporary public health standards, and/or in danger of failure with severe limits on wastewater options due to the presence of clay-rich soils and shallow bedrock or high ground water throughout the Town Common Area.
Furthermore, during a 2019 Vermont Council on Rural Development Community Visit, residents indicated that two of their top three priorities were encouraging small business/economic development and social revitalization/community events. A community wastewater system would allow continued and expanded use of civic buildings and provide more opportunity for revitalization of the area, meeting current and future needs and reflecting local values expressed during and after the Community Visit.
Furthermore, during a 2019 Vermont Council on Rural Development Community Visit, residents indicated that two of their top three priorities were encouraging small business/economic development and social revitalization/community events. A community wastewater system would allow continued and expanded use of civic buildings and provide more opportunity for revitalization of the area, meeting current and future needs and reflecting local values expressed during and after the Community Visit.
How does this benefit me? Why should I pay for wastewater service in the village?
Each of the civic buildings in the village operates with a deficient wastewater system. The community wastewater system will serve buildings that benefit all Westford residents: the Town Office, which stores vital records; the Library, which provides education, entertainment and enrichment; and the Common Hall and Brick Meeting House, which each host numerous public meetings and events. Providing sanitary and safe wastewater treatment ensures that these facilities will remain open and function to serve Westford residents' needs.
Town taxpayers also are likely to benefit from the taxes paid on increased property investments in the Town Common Area. Examples from Bristol, Warren, and Waitsfield demonstrate that making a public investment in modern wastewater treatment can benefit all taxpayers by ensuring that important functions, and property values, are not lost in town and village centers.
Town taxpayers also are likely to benefit from the taxes paid on increased property investments in the Town Common Area. Examples from Bristol, Warren, and Waitsfield demonstrate that making a public investment in modern wastewater treatment can benefit all taxpayers by ensuring that important functions, and property values, are not lost in town and village centers.
How is this project being funded?
To date the project has been funded by the Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF), Municipal Planning Grant program, and Planning Commission Special Project funds. Three grants (i.e. funds that do not require repayment by the Town or system users) have been awarded to date: $179,050 in Clean Water State Revolving Funds (CWSRF) have been granted for planning and engineering; $466,194 has been awarded by the Northern Borders Regional Commission/Economic Development Administration for construction; and $2,377,136 has been awarded from the State funded American Rescue Plan Act for planning, engineering and construction. Any remaining costs would be borne by users and other taxpayers through a CWSRF loan over a term of up to 30 years.
What is the status of the wastewater disposal system serving the Town Office and Library?
The existing disposal field serving the Town Office and Library is located underneath the Town Office parking lot and has a capacity of 90 gallons per day. This presents two major problems:
1) disposal fields are not designed to be compacted or driven on.
2) 90 gallons per day does not meet the Town’s current or future needs as it limits the Town Office and Library to a maximum of six employees (combined) and does not provide capacity for patrons, public meetings or group activities in either space. A new system that is in full compliance with the Environmental Protection Rules would be required in order to increase capacity or use beyond 90 gallons per day. It is not possible to locate a fully complying system with increased capacity on the Town Office-Library property.
All possible off-site locations that were identified in the 2008 Wastewater Disposal Alternative Study that are not located on the other side of the Browns River or major wetland complex or , within the Browns River floodplain, have been investigated. Seasonal high groundwater and clay-rich soil conditions eliminated most of those locations as options. The Maple Shade Town Forest is the only location identified that can meet the current and/or future wastewater disposal needs for all of the Town’s civic buildings.
A summary of the sites the Town has investigated with a link to the corresponding scientific study can be viewed here.
1) disposal fields are not designed to be compacted or driven on.
2) 90 gallons per day does not meet the Town’s current or future needs as it limits the Town Office and Library to a maximum of six employees (combined) and does not provide capacity for patrons, public meetings or group activities in either space. A new system that is in full compliance with the Environmental Protection Rules would be required in order to increase capacity or use beyond 90 gallons per day. It is not possible to locate a fully complying system with increased capacity on the Town Office-Library property.
All possible off-site locations that were identified in the 2008 Wastewater Disposal Alternative Study that are not located on the other side of the Browns River or major wetland complex or , within the Browns River floodplain, have been investigated. Seasonal high groundwater and clay-rich soil conditions eliminated most of those locations as options. The Maple Shade Town Forest is the only location identified that can meet the current and/or future wastewater disposal needs for all of the Town’s civic buildings.
A summary of the sites the Town has investigated with a link to the corresponding scientific study can be viewed here.
How much are taxpayers expected to pay?
The cost of the system would be shared by users and other taxpayers after deducting grants. In recognition that many Westford taxpayers do not live in the village, the taxpayer share will be based on the percentage of the system’s capacity used for public uses, specifically the Town Office and Library and the “unreserved capacity” for future use and/or expansion by service area properties. The cost of this “unreserved capacity” will be recouped as new users connect to the system. Existing users will pay a fee to cover their share of maintenance and bond repayment.
The Planning Commission is pursuing grants to fund the majority of the estimated total project cost. The Planning Commission expects that the Town’s ultimate share of the cost will be between $600,000 and $900,000. The Planning Commission expects to request the Selectboard to seek voter authorization of a bond of between $600,000 and $900,000 (no sooner than the Fall of 2023) with the bond to be repaid from a combination of fees paid by private users, post-construction connection fees, and taxpayer funds.
The Planning Commission is pursuing grants to fund the majority of the estimated total project cost. The Planning Commission expects that the Town’s ultimate share of the cost will be between $600,000 and $900,000. The Planning Commission expects to request the Selectboard to seek voter authorization of a bond of between $600,000 and $900,000 (no sooner than the Fall of 2023) with the bond to be repaid from a combination of fees paid by private users, post-construction connection fees, and taxpayer funds.
What is the environmental impact of this project?
This project will substantially reduce the potential for septic systems to contaminate groundwater, wells, and surface water in the Town Center Area.
Furthermore, the Agency of Natural Resources - Environmental Conservation Department has determined, through their National Environmental Policy Act review process and forthcoming issuance of a Finding of No Significant Impact, that the project will have no significant impact on natural resources. Any potential minor impacts can and will be mitigated.
For additional information, please view the Environmental Report and Environmental Information Document.
Furthermore, septic tank effluent pumps (“STEP” systems) that convey wastewater using small, pressurized pipes, such as the one proposed, have an excellent track record of providing safe and effective conveyance (transport) of septic tank effluent. STEP systems in Warren and elsewhere performed efficiently even through Tropical Storm Irene.
Furthermore, the Agency of Natural Resources - Environmental Conservation Department has determined, through their National Environmental Policy Act review process and forthcoming issuance of a Finding of No Significant Impact, that the project will have no significant impact on natural resources. Any potential minor impacts can and will be mitigated.
For additional information, please view the Environmental Report and Environmental Information Document.
Furthermore, septic tank effluent pumps (“STEP” systems) that convey wastewater using small, pressurized pipes, such as the one proposed, have an excellent track record of providing safe and effective conveyance (transport) of septic tank effluent. STEP systems in Warren and elsewhere performed efficiently even through Tropical Storm Irene.
Will things look different on the common?
Westford’s Form Based Code is designed to ensure that any new development “fits” the character of the Common. The Westford Country Store and Cafe and new Historical Society building are both examples of buildings that meet the Form Based Code. The Code contains specific standards for things such as building size, form, massing and orientation, which were developed based on historic development patterns and input from residents. The Code encourages adaptive reuse of existing buildings and creation of new buildings that resemble the existing character of the village. The Code specifically prevents formula designs and “strip mall” style buildings that would detract from the character of the Common.
Learn more about Westford’s Form Based Code.
Learn more about Westford’s Form Based Code.
How long will this project take to complete and what is the timeline?
The bond vote will be held no sooner than the Fall of 2023. If the bond vote is successful, construction is expected to begin no sooner than the Summer of 2024. Supply chain, worker availability and State project capacity may impact the project timeline. Check out the About page for more information on the timeline.
Has the area of the proposed system been surveyed for important or sensitive environmental and/or natural features?
Yes. In 2016, prior to the entire 130 acre property becoming eligible for support to become Westford’s Maple Shade Town Forest, all of the property and adjacent farmland had been surveyed by an Ecologist from the Vermont Land Trust. The Ecologist surveyed for important habitats, sensitive, rare or endangered animal or plant species. A wetland and soil scientist also surveyed the site. In 2018 upon becoming Town property, development of the land’s management plan relied upon many experts, all of whom surveyed the property.
The recommendations and supporting reports from experts can be found in the appendices of the Westford Town Land’s Long Term Management Plan developed in 2018/2019.
An assessment of bird habitat in the field area in which the proposed wastewater disposal system would be installed was conducted by an Audubon Vermont Conservation Biologist, who determined: “The small area of hayfield that is to be managed by the Westford Conservation Commission is too small to support grassland nesting species.”
The recommendations and supporting reports from experts can be found in the appendices of the Westford Town Land’s Long Term Management Plan developed in 2018/2019.
An assessment of bird habitat in the field area in which the proposed wastewater disposal system would be installed was conducted by an Audubon Vermont Conservation Biologist, who determined: “The small area of hayfield that is to be managed by the Westford Conservation Commission is too small to support grassland nesting species.”
What has the Town done to find suitable wastewater replacement options for the Town’s civic buildings?
The Town has been looking at options for wastewater disposal in the Town Center Area since 2007. Civic buildings in the Town Center Area face major constraints to onsite replacement. There are no options that meet the present needs of all civic buildings, let alone allow use of the buildings to adapt and grow with the community.
A summary of the sites the Town has investigated with a link to the corresponding scientific study can be viewed here.
A summary of the sites the Town has investigated with a link to the corresponding scientific study can be viewed here.
If the community wastewater system is approved, will that construction occur all at once or in stages?
The Planning Commission explored a phased construction option, but determined it was not the most cost-effective approach. The primary reason to phase construction would be to reduce initial construction costs. However, constructing the system in phases would increase overall cost and reduce the amount of said costs that can be covered by grants.
WHO WILL MAINTAIN THE SYSTEM ONCE IT IS OPERATIONAL?
Operation and maintenance (O&M) activities will include contracting with an operator and engineer to periodically inspect and service the system as necessary, and to ensure that permit requirements are met.
HOW WILL MAINTENANCE COSTS OF THE COMMUNITY WASTEWATER SYSTEM BE ADDRESSED?
The cost of maintenance will be shared by the users of the system. User fee and operation and maintenance cost sharing details will be part of the Wastewater Ordinance which will be developed during the project design phase.
HOW MUCH ADDITIONAL DEVELOPMENT IN THE VILLAGE CENTER WOULD THIS SYSTEM SUPPORT?
Development in Town is governed by the Westford Land Use & Development Regulations. With a capacity of 24,600 gallons per day, the community wastewater system would provide enough capacity to serve the Town Center Area well into the future.
HOW DOES THE BOND VOTE WORK? WHEN DOES THE PUBLIC PARTICIPATE?
There are two steps. First, the Selectboard must hold a warned public hearing and vote to put the question to the voters. It is likely the question will include cost and grant funding contingencies. The second step takes place on the day of the bond vote when all eligible voters have the opportunity to vote yes or no on the question.
Before the bond vote, the Planning Commission will hold public meetings to explain to the community what the proposal entails and its costs. Those meetings have already begun.
The bond vote is expected to take place no sooner than the Fall of 2023.
Before the bond vote, the Planning Commission will hold public meetings to explain to the community what the proposal entails and its costs. Those meetings have already begun.
The bond vote is expected to take place no sooner than the Fall of 2023.
If final design has not been finished by the time of the bond vote, how can the town vote on the project?
Bond votes generally include contingency language that protects town taxpayers in the event costs exceed what is authorized. Voters are likely to be asked to authorize a bond of up to a specified dollar amount, for a project of up to a maximum specified total cost, and only if a minimum specified amount of grant funding is secured to ensure the cost to the taxpayers and system users stays within a certain range. Once the final design is completed, the Selectboard would only have the authority to authorize the construction contract if the total cost, grant funding and bond amount are within the limits authorized by the voters.
WOULDN’T KEEPING ON-SITE SYSTEMS PREVENT CHANGE IN THE TOWN’S DEVELOPMENT AND CHARACTER?
Inaction is not a solution. A few problems inaction may create are: Properties will depreciate in value; Existing onsite and/or best fix systems may not meet current and/or future needs of property owners; Variances from Environmental Protection Rules will be required in order to maintain existing development thereby increasing potential for surface and groundwater contamination; Services and amenities will be unable to locate in the village or diversify in order to remain financially viable.
It’s becoming clear that financial investments in public facilities have to be made in order to have the types of amenities and quality of life that Westford residents desire. Enabling greater use of, for example, the Country Store and the Common Hall, benefits the public and can lead to a stronger tax base overall. In short, the backbone of a vibrant and thriving village is public infrastructure and good regulation.
It’s becoming clear that financial investments in public facilities have to be made in order to have the types of amenities and quality of life that Westford residents desire. Enabling greater use of, for example, the Country Store and the Common Hall, benefits the public and can lead to a stronger tax base overall. In short, the backbone of a vibrant and thriving village is public infrastructure and good regulation.
WHAT WILL THE SYSTEM ON MAPLE SHADE LOOK LIKE?
Nearly all of the community wastewater system components will be underground. The dispersal (disposal or leach) field itself will be nearly invisible. The field will look like an agricultural field – much like it looks now.
There will be a small control building with valve vault and dosing station located on the east side of Brookside Road that will conform with the Form Based Code and an underground pump station located in the village proper.
There will be a small control building with valve vault and dosing station located on the east side of Brookside Road that will conform with the Form Based Code and an underground pump station located in the village proper.
WILL ROUTE 128 HAVE TO BE DUG UP? WHAT ABOUT EXCAVATION DURING OR LEFT OPEN DURING THE WINTER, WHICH MAKES A MESS?
For any Route 128 crossings, directional drilling would be used to minimize disruption. This is a technique that has been used for other large and small community projects in north and central Vermont to successfully minimize highway disruption. The design team and Town will coordinate with VTrans early in the design process to ensure smooth permitting and construction.
With respect to construction, the Town will not be forced by outside agencies to construct the system during winter months.
With respect to construction, the Town will not be forced by outside agencies to construct the system during winter months.
WHAT’S THE EXPECTED LIFE OF THE COMMUNITY WASTEWATER SYSTEM?
A properly maintained wastewater system can be expected to have a long life - at least 30 years, and perhaps even an indefinite time. The design of Westford’s proposed system includes three things that greatly extend system life: (1) robust filtering prior to transmission to the disposal field , which means that effluent with minimal solids is discharged to the soil; (2) a pressurized dosing system, which applies treated wastewater evenly and consistently over time; and (3) alternating subsurface drip disposal fields, which allow application of small, regular effluent doses and plenty of time for “rest” and infiltration between doses. Each of these components prevents clogging and over-use and promotes system longevity.
What has the Town done to find suitable wastewater treatment options for the Town’s public and civic buildings?
The Town has been looking at options for wastewater disposal for over 16 years. As far back as 1992, the Westford Town Plan recognized the need to address the lack of wastewater disposal capacity for the Town’s buildings.
The existing wastewater disposal site that serves both the Town Office and Library was permitted in 1973 for only 90 gallons per day (gpd) (less than currently needed), is located under the parking area, and is at the end of its useful life. This grandfathered permit capacity of 90 gpd allows for only 6 people to use the Town Office and Library without being in violation of the Town’s current permit. The grandfathered limit of 90 gpd is not enough to support public meetings at the Town Office, or children’s reading groups and other events at the Library.
Due to soil conditions, setbacks to steep slopes and wetlands, and small parcel size, the 1973 system at the Town Office cannot be expanded or rehabilitated to increase capacity. Without an off-site solution, the Town is, essentially, stuck. When asked in 2022, staff at the State Agency of Natural Resources stated that new technologies cannot be used to increase the 90 gpd capacity of the Town Office and Library unless a system that fully meets current regulations including setbacks from parking and buildings, separation from groundwater, and well isolation distances, was able to be built. These conditions do not exist on the Town Office and Library site.
In 2008, the Town completed a wastewater feasibility study of the Town Center Area, including the Town Office and Library. This study was conducted using State soil maps. The feasibility study identified several parcels in and around the Common that warranted further investigation for their potential as wastewater disposal sites.
From 2012 to 2014, the Town’s consultants evaluated soil conditions at several locations around the Common to investigate the possibility of locating a disposal site for public and civic buildings. The properties investigated include the former Spiller property (currently Westford Country Store and Café), the Westford Common Hall, the Town Common itself, and the Brick Meeting House. A summary of the findings can be found here. The studies found that restrictions such as clay soils, isolation distances, ledge and high seasonal groundwater were present at each site. None of these sites would provide wastewater treatment capacity to serve the needs of the Town’s civic and public buildings.
In 2015, the Town was first presented with an opportunity that changed the landscape for community wastewater disposal. After working with the Vermont Land Trust and local property owners, the Town became the owner of the Maple Shade Town Forest property in 2018. The northern portion of the hay field on that property contains ideal soils for an in-ground leach field. A leach field at this location can provide capacity for more uses than just the Town Office and Library, thus giving the Town an opportunity to provide wastewater disposal capacity for properties in the Town Center Area that otherwise would require less than ideal ‘best fixes” of wastewater infrastructure when their current systems need to be replaced. To ensure Westford has the flexibility needed to respond to situations like the Westford Common Hall’s rebirth as a community facility, a solution with the capacity offered by the Maple Shade Town Forest acquisition is needed. The Town was able to acquire the Maple Shade Town Forest due to a significant grant from the Vermont Housing and Conservation Board that was awarded based upon the property’s unique ability to serve the dual goals of conservation and a potential solution to the Town Center’s wastewater constraints.
Thus, since 2018, the Town has been concentrating on advancing a community wastewater solution at the Maple Sade Town Forest including an in-ground wastewater disposal system to serve the Town Common Area and a portion of Brookside Road.
The existing wastewater disposal site that serves both the Town Office and Library was permitted in 1973 for only 90 gallons per day (gpd) (less than currently needed), is located under the parking area, and is at the end of its useful life. This grandfathered permit capacity of 90 gpd allows for only 6 people to use the Town Office and Library without being in violation of the Town’s current permit. The grandfathered limit of 90 gpd is not enough to support public meetings at the Town Office, or children’s reading groups and other events at the Library.
Due to soil conditions, setbacks to steep slopes and wetlands, and small parcel size, the 1973 system at the Town Office cannot be expanded or rehabilitated to increase capacity. Without an off-site solution, the Town is, essentially, stuck. When asked in 2022, staff at the State Agency of Natural Resources stated that new technologies cannot be used to increase the 90 gpd capacity of the Town Office and Library unless a system that fully meets current regulations including setbacks from parking and buildings, separation from groundwater, and well isolation distances, was able to be built. These conditions do not exist on the Town Office and Library site.
In 2008, the Town completed a wastewater feasibility study of the Town Center Area, including the Town Office and Library. This study was conducted using State soil maps. The feasibility study identified several parcels in and around the Common that warranted further investigation for their potential as wastewater disposal sites.
From 2012 to 2014, the Town’s consultants evaluated soil conditions at several locations around the Common to investigate the possibility of locating a disposal site for public and civic buildings. The properties investigated include the former Spiller property (currently Westford Country Store and Café), the Westford Common Hall, the Town Common itself, and the Brick Meeting House. A summary of the findings can be found here. The studies found that restrictions such as clay soils, isolation distances, ledge and high seasonal groundwater were present at each site. None of these sites would provide wastewater treatment capacity to serve the needs of the Town’s civic and public buildings.
In 2015, the Town was first presented with an opportunity that changed the landscape for community wastewater disposal. After working with the Vermont Land Trust and local property owners, the Town became the owner of the Maple Shade Town Forest property in 2018. The northern portion of the hay field on that property contains ideal soils for an in-ground leach field. A leach field at this location can provide capacity for more uses than just the Town Office and Library, thus giving the Town an opportunity to provide wastewater disposal capacity for properties in the Town Center Area that otherwise would require less than ideal ‘best fixes” of wastewater infrastructure when their current systems need to be replaced. To ensure Westford has the flexibility needed to respond to situations like the Westford Common Hall’s rebirth as a community facility, a solution with the capacity offered by the Maple Shade Town Forest acquisition is needed. The Town was able to acquire the Maple Shade Town Forest due to a significant grant from the Vermont Housing and Conservation Board that was awarded based upon the property’s unique ability to serve the dual goals of conservation and a potential solution to the Town Center’s wastewater constraints.
Thus, since 2018, the Town has been concentrating on advancing a community wastewater solution at the Maple Sade Town Forest including an in-ground wastewater disposal system to serve the Town Common Area and a portion of Brookside Road.
Do any buildings around the Town Common other than the Town Office and Library have a need for additional wastewater capacity?
Yes. For example, in less than a ten-year period, the capacity demand for the Westford Common Hall has nearly doubled, not as a result of development and new construction, but because of the community’s evolving needs. As the Westford Common Hall has evolved into a building that hosts community events with food prepared offsite, its need for wastewater capacity has increased substantially. At present, the Westford Common Hall must have its holding tank pumped after nearly every event. Relying on unsuitable soils, such as those that exist around the Common, would preclude some of the future plans the WCH has considered, such as co-workspace or preparing food onsite.
As another example, the Westford Country Store and Café has been unable to fully utilize its indoor dining area and the apartment on the second floor due to a lack of wastewater capacity and the limitations outlined in its State wastewater permit. If it occupies the apartment, it must have very limited indoor dining capacity. If it increases dining capacity, it cannot occupy the apartment.
As another example, the Westford Country Store and Café has been unable to fully utilize its indoor dining area and the apartment on the second floor due to a lack of wastewater capacity and the limitations outlined in its State wastewater permit. If it occupies the apartment, it must have very limited indoor dining capacity. If it increases dining capacity, it cannot occupy the apartment.
Would new septic treatment technologies significantly alter the findings of past investigations or provide alternatives for increased capacity at any locations around the Common?
Past soil investigations have identified major barriers to onsite wastewater management at public and civic buildings and, generally, in the Town Center Area. These barriers include the presence of soil with minimal infiltration rates (i.e. clays); shallow groundwater; ledge; limited isolation distances from wells; and close proximity to streams, wetlands, and the Browns River. Use of “Innovative/Alternative” technologies approved for use under the Vermont Wastewater System and Potable Water Supply Rules does not substantially alter the constraints posed by these limitations.
WOuld recent regulatory changes alter the findings of past investigations or provide alternatives for increased capacity at any locations around the Common?
Potential sites for onsite disposal immediately around the Common face significant barriers due to constraints such as isolation distances from neighboring wells. The 2019 updates to the Wastewater System and Potable Water Supply Rules make it more challenging to site fully complying replacement systems in such locations than it was when the 2012-2014 investigations were completed.
How will the project impact drinking water in the Town Center Area? Is a municipal drinking water system proposed or being explored?
The Town is not exploring or proposing a municipal drinking water system. A community wastewater system will help protect current and future drinking water supply sources. Every in-ground septic system currently serving properties around the Common has the potential to negatively affect drinking water wells, especially if any leach fields are over-loaded or clogged. A community wastewater system will greatly reduce the potential for individual drinking water supplies and/or waterways to be negatively impacted by failed or substandard disposal systems.
How does the drip disposal system work?
Subsurface drip dispersal (disposal) systems use “emitters” (small spray heads attached to flexible tubes), which apply a small amount of wastewater within the upper 6-12” layer of soils. Wastewater application is controlled by a time-dosing system that ensures soils do not become oversaturated, thus providing the maximum treatment of wastewater in soils. Soil microbes living in healthy, unsaturated soil provide exceptionally good treatment of water-borne contaminants. The low application rates and time dosing in a drip dispersal system maximize the effectiveness of this natural treatment process while protecting the health of the soils.
The tubes containing emitters are equipped with filters and automatic flushing systems to protect the drip tubing from clogging. The pump is capable of handling a range of distances and elevations. Emitters are evenly spaced along the tubing at 2-foot intervals. Small doses are applied into the soil through the emitters on a 24-hour cycle to provide effective treatment of the effluent. These “micro-doses” are typically just a few ounces of water per emitter during each pump cycle, resulting in a very low burden on the receiving soil.
The drip disposal system provides a variety of environmental benefits, including:
● Less excavation and site disturbance during installation;
● Fewer imported materials such as stone;
● Less expensive to install than installation of a traditional leach field system;
● Increased contact with soil results in improved effluent treatment;
● Under typical operational conditions, greater removal of nitrogen and phosphorus.
In summary, the subsurface drip disposal system provides greater environmental protection for a lower cost compared to other soil based wastewater disposal options.
The tubes containing emitters are equipped with filters and automatic flushing systems to protect the drip tubing from clogging. The pump is capable of handling a range of distances and elevations. Emitters are evenly spaced along the tubing at 2-foot intervals. Small doses are applied into the soil through the emitters on a 24-hour cycle to provide effective treatment of the effluent. These “micro-doses” are typically just a few ounces of water per emitter during each pump cycle, resulting in a very low burden on the receiving soil.
The drip disposal system provides a variety of environmental benefits, including:
● Less excavation and site disturbance during installation;
● Fewer imported materials such as stone;
● Less expensive to install than installation of a traditional leach field system;
● Increased contact with soil results in improved effluent treatment;
● Under typical operational conditions, greater removal of nitrogen and phosphorus.
In summary, the subsurface drip disposal system provides greater environmental protection for a lower cost compared to other soil based wastewater disposal options.
Are there examples of subsurface drip disposal systems currently in use in other cold weather environments?
Subsurface drip disposal systems have been approved for onsite wastewater disposal in Vermont for well over a decade.The most common applications have been for new construction on wooded, sloping sites, and especially to replace failed leachfields in difficult site conditions.
Mechanical components of the drip system such as pumps and pressurized dosing are similar to those used for dosing large conventional leach fields. Larger applications for subdivisions, municipal systems, and commercial sites are more common in Maine, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire. There are examples of drip systems operating in other Northern New England states that are significantly larger than the community wastewater system proposed in Westford.
Mechanical components of the drip system such as pumps and pressurized dosing are similar to those used for dosing large conventional leach fields. Larger applications for subdivisions, municipal systems, and commercial sites are more common in Maine, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire. There are examples of drip systems operating in other Northern New England states that are significantly larger than the community wastewater system proposed in Westford.
Frequently Asked Questions - System Users
updated 5/30/23
Why should I connect to the wastewater system?
Many properties in the village and particularly around the common have limited options for replacement systems that conform with the State’s Environmental Protection Rules. This situation can require variances from the Environmental Protection Rules, impose limits on any increase in use of buildings or properties, and result in high-cost systems that require frequent inspection and maintenance at the property owner’s expense. These limitations can be eliminated by connecting to a community wastewater system where the cost of wastewater disposal will be predictable and spread over time, rather than erupt as an unplanned and unpleasant expense.
MY SEPTIC SYSTEM IS NEW OR HAS BEEN WORKING FINE - WHY SHOULD I SWITCH?
Unless you have a functioning, State-permitted septic system with a suitable replacement area, the community wastewater system likely provides the most predictable, long term, and affordable option to maintain full use of your property. Banks and mortgage companies may require you to construct a replacement system when you try to sell or refinance your property if an inspection finds the system isn’t working properly.
While the project team will make every effort to keep costs as low as possible through grants and design, it is valid to compare the system connection and ongoing cost against the potential cost of replacing or reconstructing an existing system. For houses that require a new mound system, the typical cost has been near $30,000 plus maintenance, operation and inspection fees. The project team encourages property owners to speak with those they trust regarding their home’s or property’s situation and value to be able to make the right decision on connecting.
While the project team will make every effort to keep costs as low as possible through grants and design, it is valid to compare the system connection and ongoing cost against the potential cost of replacing or reconstructing an existing system. For houses that require a new mound system, the typical cost has been near $30,000 plus maintenance, operation and inspection fees. The project team encourages property owners to speak with those they trust regarding their home’s or property’s situation and value to be able to make the right decision on connecting.
When do I need to decide whether to connect to the community wastewater system?
If you own property in the Proposed Service Area, you will be contacted by the project team and/or Town asking whether you intend to connect to the system. Your decision on whether to connect would need to be made during the final design phase of the project.
What if I'm unsure of connecting, and want to opt in later?
It will be possible to connect after construction. However, connection fees and expenses will be borne by the property owner after the system is constructed.
What are the initial costs to connect my property to the system?
We are working to structure the system so that initial costs of connection are as minimal as possible. Engineering, ANR permitting, tank decommissioning, STEP tank installation, and piping to the force main will be included in the total project cost (and thus paid through the construction funding stack). It is unlikely that there will be an upfront connection fee for users who connect at time of construction. The only potential cost may be the plumbing from the home to the STEP tank, though the design team will work to minimize the need for interior plumbing changes and the Planning Commission is exploring ways to include those costs in the total project cost.
Will I be forced to connect to the system?
On November 1, 2021 the Selectboard signed a Resolution resolving “that the Selectboard and Planning Commission state their common intention, if and when a community wastewater system is constructed, to advance a wastewater ordinance with a voluntary connection policy for properties within the service area, with provisions for connection substantively equivalent to the wastewater system connection conditions in the sample draft wastewater ordinance, and to allow for the continued operation on a voluntary basis of those on-site wastewater systems functioning in a manner consistent with the protection of public and environmental health.”
CLICK HERE for the full Resolution
CLICK HERE for the full Resolution
What if I can't afford to connect?
If you would like to connect, but are unable to do so, please reach out to us, as there are some state funding sources that may be able to assist with this cost. In addition, if a certain percentage of likely users qualify as “moderate income,” the system may be eligible for additional funding sources to further lower the costs to system users.
HOW WILL THE FEES BE ESTABLISHED?
The amount and frequency of fees for system users will be established in a wastewater ordinance that the Selectboard will craft during public meetings and adopt through a warned public hearing process. The project team expects that the Selectboard will begin crafting this ordinance in early 2023.
What will be the monthly fee for me to connect?
User fees will include both the cost of operations and maintenance (including regular inspection and pumping of the STEP tanks), and a proportionate share of bond repayment. The user fee will depend on a variety of factors, most importantly the total grant share. The fee target range is between $60 and $100 per month per Equivalent Residential User (245 gallons/day = 1 ERU). Mixed use and institutional use properties are allocated multiple ERUs depending on the use of the property. For example Town Office and Library use at 710 gallons / day would equate to 3 ERUs. A wastewater ordinance that includes an equitable fee structure will be developed during the final design phase.
Can flows be metered, rather than assuming a use is using its full permitted “wastewater design flow”?
A community wastewater system can be metered, and the specific flows are reported to the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). Where it’s demonstrated that actual flows are lower than the permitted design flow expected, DEC can utilize actual system flows to re-calculate the system’s reserve capacity. The Town may then use actual flow rates as opposed to standard flow rates when evaluating use and capacity. If that results in additional system capacity, the Town can allocate that additional reserve capacity to users through its wastewater ordinance.
Where will the new septic tanks and effluent pumps be located and when will plans for my property be completed?
In STEP systems, the effluent pump is integrated within the septic tank - it’s not a separate feature. Connections and STEP tank locations will be worked out in final design. For those who wish to participate, the final design process will include locating force main connections within existing driveway areas, and STEP tanks near existing septic tanks and plumbing, which are typically located in back or side yards, when feasible. Site visits with interested property owners and surveys of existing infrastructure have begun and will continue to take place until complete, which is expected in 2023. The engineering team will reach out to you directly regarding your property and interest in connecting/engineering for connection.
Since there will be electric-powered pumps in tanks at each property and a central pump station, will backup power and storage be provided for emergencies?
Yes. The plans will include storage redundancies at individual connections, as well as emergency storage capacity and back-up power at community system pump and dosing stations.
What will happen to my existing septic tank?
The details for individual existing septic tanks are likely to vary (crushing in place vs. removing) depending on the condition and placement of the existing tank vs. the new STEP tank. If it is determined that the existing tank can remain on site, it will be pumped, crushed in place, and filled when the new STEP tank is installed. This work would be completed in accordance with the current wastewater rules and with specifications included in construction contract documents. If it is not feasible for the old tank to remain in place, it will be excavated and removed when the new STEP tank is installed.
In the event the system does not deliver the desired outcome, who bears the cost to make the necessary modifications to achieve the desired outcome?
The physical components of the system will have warranties that apply. If a pump, STEP tank, or other physical component fails due to a design or manufacturing flaw, then the manufacturer’s warranty would apply to remove and replace the component.
The construction company that installs the system is required to do so in conformance with plans and specifications developed by the Town’s consulting engineers and approved by the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources, and in accordance with permits issued by the Agency. If the construction company fails to install the system in conformance with the approved plans, then that company is responsible for the remedial measures that are necessary. Any company the Town hires to do the installation will be required to have insurance coverage and post a construction bond, as set out in the funding agreements between the Town and the State, and the Engineering Services Agreement among the Town, State and the Town’s consulting engineers.
Once constructed, the system has a one-year warranty period. The warranty period starts at the project completion date. During the warranty period there is coverage for Engineer site visits if anything comes up, and the first annual inspection will also likely fall within the warranty period. Any Clean Water State Revolving Fund loan repayment does not begin until the end of the warranty period – allowing for minor adjustment of the repayment amount if system modifications are required.
Further, the system will be permitted and operated under the Indirect Discharge Rules, which contain requirements for regular monitoring, periodic inspection, and reporting to the State during the warranty period and after that throughout the life of the system. The system will also, as part of its management program, have an on-call State licensed operator who responds to alarm conditions and regularly checks to make sure the drip zones are operating as expected.
The construction company that installs the system is required to do so in conformance with plans and specifications developed by the Town’s consulting engineers and approved by the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources, and in accordance with permits issued by the Agency. If the construction company fails to install the system in conformance with the approved plans, then that company is responsible for the remedial measures that are necessary. Any company the Town hires to do the installation will be required to have insurance coverage and post a construction bond, as set out in the funding agreements between the Town and the State, and the Engineering Services Agreement among the Town, State and the Town’s consulting engineers.
Once constructed, the system has a one-year warranty period. The warranty period starts at the project completion date. During the warranty period there is coverage for Engineer site visits if anything comes up, and the first annual inspection will also likely fall within the warranty period. Any Clean Water State Revolving Fund loan repayment does not begin until the end of the warranty period – allowing for minor adjustment of the repayment amount if system modifications are required.
Further, the system will be permitted and operated under the Indirect Discharge Rules, which contain requirements for regular monitoring, periodic inspection, and reporting to the State during the warranty period and after that throughout the life of the system. The system will also, as part of its management program, have an on-call State licensed operator who responds to alarm conditions and regularly checks to make sure the drip zones are operating as expected.
What will happen to service if the power goes out for an extended period of time?
The proposed system is designed to be more robust than is typical for individual on-site systems. In the event of a power outage, each STEP tank has emergency storage capacity that will prevent back-ups at individual connections, depending on how much water is used in the attached home or business during the outage. The system design includes two emergency generators to be installed in the service area to move effluent between pump stations. In the event of an extended power outage, the wastewater system operator can authorize a septic hauler to pump the STEP tanks. These precautions are more robust than is typical for individual onsite systems that rely on pumps, where owners face the same problems during a power outage, without the benefit of a contract operator to manage emergency situations.