Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
Lake property owners may have an easier time selling or developing their property as a result of a bill recently passed by the Indiana Senate.
The bill, SB 76, will exempt lake properties platted before the Indiana Department of Environmental Management issued new regulations that tightened restrictions on the placement of septic sanitary systems on such properties, from the tougher guidelines.
The bill is being cosponsored by Rep. David Wolkins (R-Winona Lake).
"We're trying to make sure everyone is treated fairly, while at the same time making sure we take care of our lakes," Wolkins said. "The bill will grandfather in people who had their land platted before the state changed the septic regulations."
The effect of the bill, if passed, is causing county sanitation officials some concerns, however.
"The change will force me to allow a property owner to put in a septic system within 10 feet of a neighbor's well, if that's what they request," said Bob Weaver, county sanitarian. "This is a bad law, because it takes the decision out of the hands of the county health department - even if granting the septic permit would be contrary to public health."
Wolkins said he understands Weaver's concerns and will investigate them before throwing his support fully behind the bill.
