The deadline for septic systems to be in place and compliant in Rubio and Richmond according to the Department of Natural Resources is seven weeks away. The Washington County Board of Supervisors held a work session yesterday to discuss the steps for abatement and enforcement for the six houses that still need systems put in place. Supervisor Jack Seward explained these homeowners have exhausted funding avenues, with three in Rubio and three in Richmond.

If a new system or plan for a new system is not in place by June 1st Washington County may be fined $5,000 daily by the DNR and $10,000 daily by the Environmental Protection Agency.

County Attorney Larry Brock stated that an enforcement letter stating the county has the authority to abate the issue or fine the homeowners should be sent out in a timely manner. Washington County Environmental Health Administrator Jennine Wolf stated she will contact area contractors to see if they would be willing to donate labor or materials before issuing a letter.

Also, Seward stated he is meeting with Habitat for Humanity in hopes of setting up another source of assistance for the six non-compliant homes. Seward will give a report at next week’s supervisors meeting.