Fires were cooled Thursday, May 25 with the Clearlake City Council”s decision concerning septic systems in regard to lot sizes. The council accepted a recommendation that will allow for business to continue as usual following a month-long outcry for immediate action. Effective Tuesday, May 30, when Clearlake City Hall opened following the Memorial Day holiday, those with septic system permits approved and issued by Lake County Environmental Health are eligible for building permits issued by the city. In previous years, the process had been similar with the county environmental agency making the determination in allowing for or denying standard septic systems on lots sized 50 by 100 feet. The city”s newly hired Interim Community Development Director, Angela Basch”s interpretation of city ordinances pertaining to septics and lot sizes, and lots of record, resulted in widespread frustration among those building in the area. Since the council”s meeting of April 27, many have voiced a concern over lost wages and other economic setbacks while claiming that on Tuesday, April 25 Basch began implementing an ordinance that had not previously been applied. Basch”s interpretation of the ordinance had resulted in the rejection of building permit applications submitted by many of those that had been at that meeting. Adhering to the requirements of the Brown Act, which prohibits public discussion by the council of any matter not on the meeting”s agenda, the council refused discussion at that time and arranged for a Public Hearing on the matter. A special meeting was called on May 8 to address the matter as an urgency item. The meeting of May 8 resulted in no action by the council, which had left many in attendance crying for immediate resolution. Finally, following a month-long struggle over the issue, the council”s decision was to return to the traditional practice of allowing the county environmental agency to make determination regarding septic system suitability. Thursday”s decision was applauded by most, however, resident Alice Reese did reiterate her concern for environmental safety. “Zoning ordinances are put in place to protect the future of the community,” she said. Reese further insinuated blame on the part of property owners for lack of public sewer in the Clearlake Park area. She stated that a petition had been circulated in which Clearlake Park property owners voiced opposition to public sewer in the area. She did not say, however, when the petition had been circulated. Contact Denise Rockenstein at drockenstein@clearlakeobserver.com.
