Neighborhood may see septic systems removed
BY CHRIS GAETANO
Staff Writer

SOUTH BRUNSWICK - The Township Council is debating whether to move forward on a plan to replace the septic systems currently serving the area around Deans Pond Lane West with water and sewer lines.

The debate arose after a survey sent to residents indicated a favorable reaction to the idea, despite the fact that doing so would probably lead to a property reassessment as per state law.

The survey was sent to 28 homeowners in the area informing them that if they agreed to the replacement of the septic systems their properties would be reassessed, which may lead to an increase in property taxes. It also said that they would be responsible for the surcharge for connecting the homes to the sewer line. Of the people who offered their opinion on the matter, 17 were in favor and 8 were not, leading the council to conclude that there is support for the measure. According to South Brunswick Public Affairs Coordinator Ron Schmalz, a survey asking the same thing had been sent out last year, but could not be used since fewer than half responded.

Howard Bellizio, who lives on Homestead Lane, just off Deans Pond Lane West, said that there had been efforts to get water and sewer connections in that area for at least 10 years, but there hadn't been enough people living there for a serious effort to get under way. He said he supported the measure because the septic systems are difficult and expensive to maintain, and they also contribute to pollution. He also said that septic systems can affect the potential resale value of a property in a negative way.

Bellizio, who is also a former mayor, said that reassessment or not, it would be cheaper to simply have sewer access.

"When it comes time the septic systems fail, they'll have to spend some $40,000 to fix things," Bellizio said. "An assessment will be much less expensive than that."

If the township moves forward on this, the process will take a long time, necessitating the passage of a bond ordinance first. Mayor Frank Gambatese said that because of this fact, getting input from residents is essential, because the project is not something to be taken lightly. It was noted during the Township Council meeting on May 1 that similar efforts had been tried on Friendship Road with less than favorable results.

"We need to be very firm on this. If we go, we go forward on this and there's no going back," said Gambatese.

Discussions on the matter are expected to be held May 22. The public is encouraged to comment.