LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — Homeowners continue to speak out against proposed septic tank regulations, voicing concerns about potential costs they can’t afford.
Hundreds of people packed the latest Southern Nevada Health District meeting even though the topic was not on the agenda.
Another hearing will not occur until next year, according to the SNHD webpage with updates.
Residents with septic tanks voiced concerns over a worst-case scenario they can’t afford: potential five-or-six-figure costs to convert their home and connect to the municipal water system.
“I’m going to tell you right now, it’s well more than $100,000 for me to hook up,” one concerned resident said during public comment. “All of us are seniors,” she said.
Around 17,000 homes across Clark County operate on septic tanks. Many are older homes or located in rural areas.
Last month, SNHD acknowledged concerns and postponed hearings on possible regulations.
“The agency also acknowledges the concerns raised by community members and appreciates the input received so far. Community voices are important, and the Health District remains committed to continued dialogue, transparency and mutual respect as the process moves forward,” a statement from last month said.
As the Valley’s population has surged, homes in areas once considered “rural” are now surrounded by housing developments that are connected to the municipal water system.
Laurie Howard-Malm and her husband built a home 20 years ago in the area of Decatur Road and Warm Springs Road. They have their own cul-de-sac.
“If we wanted to build this house, you had to have a septic tank,” Howard-Malm said.
In 2023, Assembly Bill 220 was passed by the Legislature, adding regulations for septic tanks. That’s when Howard-Malm inquired about costs to connect to the sewer system.
“It would cost anywhere between $500,000 to $800,000 to bring sewer into this area right here in my home. It’s far more than my ability to pay,” Howard-Malm said.
“My husband and I are both retired, so we don’t have the kind of money that we did. And even then, I couldn’t afford $500,000 to put into this home and this property,” she said.
Howard-Malm and other homeowners call for financial assistance to comply with any mandates.
A SNHD spokesperson tells FOX5, Assembly Bill 220 authorizes but does not require financial aid. The agency is open to creating a financial assistance option, but there is currently no funding allocated for it, a spokesperson said.
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