Local legislators meet with DEP's Hanger

New on-lot sewage system policies at issue HARRISBURG — A policy pertaining to on-lot sewage systems in Wayne and Pike counties sparked a meeting last week between Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Secretary John Hanger and several area legislators. Hangar met with Sen. Lisa Baker (R-20), and Representatives Sandra Major (R-111), Edward Staback (D-115), Mike Peifer (R-139) and Mike Carroll (D-118). The lawmakers asked to meet to express their concerns on the recent changes in the permitting of new on-lot sewage systems and the impact and financial strain these changes are having on residents, local municipalities and new home construction. They also stressed that delays in the application process for new on-lot sewage systems was having a detrimental impact on the construction industry in Wayne County. The new policy specifically makes changes to on-lot sewage systems located in Special Protection Waters, like those in Wayne and surrounding counties including Pike. Hanger acknowledged that communication surrounding the policy changes had been inadequate and he assured legislators of several changes, including: Individuals who have had applications returned with no action will be contacted immediately and receive guidance for resubmission; and DEP regional office staff will no longer withhold permit reviews or return applications without comment. These reviews are proceeding. Legislators reported that the meeting ended with agreement that a series of meetings will be held with local officials to explain the background of the Environmental Hearing Board ruling, which prompted the policy shift, and to discuss the various options available to applicants seeking permit approvals for sewage planning modules.