The proposed project on Asel Road sparked debate among the board members, centering on the practicality and cost-effectiveness of using a tight tank versus other wastewater management solutions. The engineer explained that the garage, described as a large structure intended for personal vehicle storage, would generate minimal wastewater flow, making a conventional septic system—estimated at $155,000—impractical. Instead, the engineer proposed connecting the existing gas and oil trap to a 2,000-gallon tight tank, which would handle the sanitary waste.

Concerns were raised about the feasibility of pumping waste over a 250-foot distance to reach an existing leaching field, with some board members suggesting the installation of two separate tight tanks to simplify the process and potentially reduce costs. The engineer reiterated that a 2,000-gallon tight tank was the minimum size required for sanitary sewage and that separate arrangements were needed for industrial wastewater from the gas and oil traps.

The discussion also delved into the need for a pre-treatment system to prevent hazardous gas buildup and ensure safe disposal. The board members considered notifying the relevant wastewater treatment facility about the nature of the waste, as not all facilities accept industrial wastewater without prior treatment. The practicality of the proposed solution was scrutinized, with some members skeptical of the single tight tank approach due to potential leaks and inefficiencies in pumping arrangements. Despite these concerns, others argued that the tank’s capacity was adequate for the expected use, given the residential classification of the property.

As the conversation progressed, the layout of the garage and the access routes for waste disposal were examined, with questions about the positioning of the garage doors and the accessibility of the proposed waste management system. Members sought clarification on how the owner planned to manage access to the garage and whether any future changes might necessitate further discussions about curb cuts and access points.

Ultimately, the board voted on a motion to approve the installation of a septic tight tank specifically for a half bathroom in the garage, with the condition that floor drains would tie into the same tank. This motion included a variance request from Title 5 Section 15.260, permitting this use. The motion passed with two in favor and one against, highlighting some division on the variance’s appropriateness. The approval was contingent upon revising the plan to accurately reflect the board’s decision and conducting inspections to ensure regulatory compliance. Annual inspections for all tight tanks in Lakeville were emphasized.

Following this topic, the board discussed a waiver request for a dewatered perk test from Lakeville regulations, presented by ET Engineering Enterprises. The representative detailed test pits on a property with challenging soil conditions and sought approval for building a single home on agricultural land. The board debated the appropriateness of granting variances, emphasizing the need for adherence to local regulations and the potential implications for future developments.

The Lakeville Board of Health also addressed food establishment permits, focusing on the renewal process and transitioning from one-day permits to annual permits for cost-effectiveness. A motion was approved to grant an annual license to “Dudes and Foods LLC” for 2025.

Additionally, the board discussed the implications of land development regulations, particularly concerning unbuildable land and the impact on local requirements. Concerns were raised about granting credit for land that does not perk, which could affect construction feasibility and development density.