Reminder - Phase 1 Deadline is Tuesday, January 31!

Owners of existing developed property that is within 500 feet of the Phase 1 sewer system and located inside the urban growth area, have until January 31 to apply for a permit and pay your connection fees in order to avoid paying higher costs. You have until March 15, 2012 to construct your side sewer, connect to the sewer system and decommission your septic tank. For questions about hookup requirements, please contact us at the phone or email below.

If you are required to connect and have not yet applied for a permit to construct your side sewer, please visit the County offices in Shelton (410 N. 4th St) to do so soon. The Utilities and Waste Management office hours are:
Monday-Thursday: 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Fridays: 7:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m.

Please note: Property owners who were notified of the requirement to connect in November 2011, known as “Get Connected” properties, have until April 30, 2012 to pay their connection fee.

Attend the 5th Tuesday Meeting in Belfair on January 31

This 5th Tuesday meeting is an opportunity for Belfair residents to meet with the Mason County Commissioners and County staff to learn more and ask questions about current projects including the Belfair Sewer Project and the Belfair Safety Improvement Project on State Route 3. There will also be a discussion regarding the formation of a Mason County Utilities advisory committee. Barbara Atkins, the Mason County Planning Director, will also be on hand to answer questions regarding the Belfair Urban Growth Area.

Where: North Mason School District Headquarters, 71 E. Campus Dr.
When: Tuesday, January 31, 2012, 6 p.m.

Upcoming construction activities beginning January 30:

Reminder - One week left until the Phase 1 Deadline

Property owners within 500 feet of the Phase 1 sewer system and located inside the urban growth area, now have until January 31 to apply for a permit and pay your connection fees in order to avoid paying higher costs. You have until March 15, 2012 to construct your side sewer, connect to the sewer system and decommission your septic tank. For questions about hookup requirements, please contact us at the phone or email below.

If you are required to connect and have not yet applied for a permit to construct your side sewer, please visit the County offices in Shelton (410 N. 4th St) to do so soon. The Utilities and Waste Management office hours are:
Monday-Thursday: 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Fridays: 7:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m.

Upcoming construction activities beginning January 23:

Reminder - Two weeks left until the Phase 1 Deadline

Property owners within 500 feet of the Phase 1 sewer system and located inside the urban growth area, now have until January 31 to apply for a permit and pay your connection fees in order to avoid paying higher costs. You have until March 15, 2012 to construct your side sewer, connect to the sewer system and decommission your septic tank. For questions about hookup requirements, please contact us at the phone or email below.

If you are required to connect and have not yet applied for a permit to construct your side sewer, please visit the County offices in Shelton (410 N. 4th St) to do so soon. The Utilities and Waste Management office hours are:
Monday-Thursday: 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Fridays: 7:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m.

Upcoming construction activities beginning the week of January 17:

At the water reclamation facility (WRF) crews completed the final grading around the treatment plant buildings and installed the necessary pipework to connect the WRF, storage pond and sprayfield, as well as electrical work for outside lighting. Next week, crews will continue to install and wire instrumentation inside the WRF and begin construction on the fire pump enclosure building.
At the storage pond, crews are installing underdrain gravel and liner in the lined pond. The sprayfield has been cleared and grubbed and crews will begin placing anchor blocking and welding the sprayfield pipe. Crews will also install the pumps and pre-fabricated steel in the inlet/outlet structure on the large pond.

Please note: Contractor schedules are dependent upon weather conditions and delivery of materials.

Final Sewer Rate Ordinance Approved by County Commissioners

At the Tuesday, January 10th Mason County Board of County Commissioner's Public Hearing, the following sewer rate ordinance (Resolution No. 04-12) was adopted by the Board. The Final Sewer Rate Ordinance has been posted to the Project Library. This ordinance includes:

• The deadline for property owners in Phase 1 to pay their capital facilities charge (connection fee) at the lower $3,000 per ERU amount has been extended to January 31, 2012.
• The capital facilities charge schedule has been set through December 31, 2016. 
• Clarifying the extended deadline, to pay, construct, and connect side sewers for “Get Connected” properties on sewer extensions that were notified in November 2011 by the County to April 30, 2012.
• Focuses on Phase 1 (the current phase of sewer construction); removes all references to Phase 2 of the sewer construction project. 
• Clarifies responsibilities of the County and property owners with respect to purchase, installation and maintenance of grinder pumps in the designated low pressure sewer areas of the sewer system.
• Requires that all new development located within the Belfair UGA and on property within 500 feet of the alignment of the Belfair Wastewater Reclamation Facility's pipeline shall be connected to public sewer facilities. NOTE: This was the only change made by the Board in the 12-27-11 version of the ordinance prior to its approval. 
• Allows for an adjustment, either up or down as appropriate, of a tentative ERU assignment based on 12 months’ worth of actual water use data. 
• Allows for commercial structures that are currently vacant to be billed at the minimum monthly ERU rate of 1 ERU.

Still time to Receive Best Rate for Sewer Connections – Deadline Extended to January 31, 2012 for Existing Phase 1 Structures.

Thank you to property owners who have already applied for a permit and paid your connection fees. If you are required to connect and have not yet applied for a permit to construct your side sewer, please visit the County offices in Shelton (410 N. 4th St) to do so soon. The Utilities and Waste Management office hours are:

Monday-Thursday: 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Fridays: 7:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m.

County staff and consultants will be contacting all property owners who have not yet applied for permits in the coming days and weeks.

Reminder! Sewer Rate Ordinance Public Hearing Tomorrow - Jan. 10

At the December 20 Mason County Commissioners’ meeting, the County Commissioners decided to delay action on the ordinance until the Commissioners’ meeting on January 10 in order to hear additional public comment. Mason County staff have recommended an extension of the deadline for Phase 1 property owners to apply for a permit and pay their connection fees. The County Commissioners will likely vote on the proposal tomorrow following a public hearing (more information on the public hearing is included below). Property owners in Phase 1 still have until March 15, 2012 to construct your side sewer, connect to the sewer system and decommission your septic tank. For questions about hookup requirements, please contact us at the phone or email below.
 
Public feedback on the Revised Draft Ordinance is still welcome. Below are the details for the public hearing date and location: 

• Tuesday, January 10, 2012, Public Hearing, 9:30 a.m. (Board of Mason County Commissioners’ Meeting begins at 9:00 a.m.)
  Commissioners Chambers, 411 N. 5th Street, Mason County Building 1, Shelton WA 98584

Upcoming construction activities beginning the week of January 9

At the water reclamation facility (WRF) crews completed the final grading around the treatment plant buildings and installed the necessary pipework to connect the WRF, storage pond and sprayfield, as well as electrical work for outside lighting. Next week, crews will continue to install and wire instrumentation inside the WRF and will begin construction on the fire pump enclosure building.

At the storage pond, crews are installing gravel and liners in the lined pond. The sprayfield has been cleared and grubbed and crews will begin placing anchor blocking and welding the sprayfield pipe. Crews are using best management practices for erosion control following the clearing activities. Crews will also install the pumps and pre-fabricated steel in the inlet/outlet structure on the large pond.

Revised Draft Final Sewer Ordinance Updated

Thank you to those who were able to attend the Dec. 20 Board of Mason County Commissioners’ meeting and public hearing. At the meeting, the County Commissioners decided to continue the public hearing and delay action on this ordinance until the Commissioners’ meeting on January 10, 2012. The following is information related to upcoming policy decisions by the Mason County Board of Commissioners related to the Belfair Wastewater Final Sewer Ordinance.

Public feedback on the Revised Draft Ordinance is still welcome. On January 10, the County Commissioners will continue the public hearing and may vote on the Final Ordinance. Below are the details for the public hearing date and location:

• Tuesday, January 10, 2012, Public Hearing, 9:30 a.m. (Board of Mason County Commissioners’ Meeting begins at 9:00 a.m.)
  Commissioners Chambers, 411 N. 5th Street, Mason County Building 1, Shelton WA 98584

Revised Draft Final Sewer Ordinance Updated Posted Online
A newly revised draft of the Final Sewer Ordinance has been posted on the Project Library.

Following a Public Hearing on December 20, 2011 and after receiving input from the public, County Commissioners and staff proposed the following revisions to the ordinance language:

• The deadline for property owners in Phase 1 to pay their connection fees at the lower $3,000 per ERU amount has been extended to January 31.
• Clarifying the responsibilities of the County and the property owner for the "low pressure sewer areas" as they relate to pumps, electrical circuitry, electrical power, maintenance, installation, etc. 
• Language is now included to allow for tentative ERUs that may be increased or decreased based on 12 months of new, actual water use data.
• In order to make all of the various County regulations requiring connection to the Belfair sewer system consistent, the exemption based on Department of Ecology water reuse has been eliminated. 
• Simplifying cross references to other County codes.
• Adding language to allow for a future “permit fee” charge of $150 for a single family home and a $150 deposit and $75/hr fee for commercial and multi-family properties after March 15, 2012.
• Clarifying the extended deadline to pay, construct, and connect side sewers for “Get Connected” properties on sewer extensions that have only recently been notified by the County to April 30, 2012.

The notes above build upon the previous version of the ordinance posted on December 14, 2011. After considering input at and since the 5th Tuesday Mason County Commissioners Meeting on November 29, 2011, the following changes were made at that time:

• All references to Phase 2, including the “Capacity Reservation Charge,” have been removed. 
• Connection deadlines have been clarified. The ordinance reiterates that property owners have until December 31, 2011 to achieve the cheapest connection rate of $3,000 per ERU. It identifies that Phase 1 property owners have until March 15, 2012 for physical connection to the system after a December 31, 2011 fee deadline. In recognition of a number of factors, including the fact that the new system will not be ready to accept sewage until January 15, 2012, many owners wanted to be able to take advantage of the less expensive connection charges but were not quite ready to connect or be able to complete their connection by the December 31, 2011 date. Mason County staff have worked to extend the deadline for physical connection to the system, including: side sewer construction, connection to the system, and septic tank decommissioning until March 15, 2012. Construction during this time frame allows these property owners to remain in compliance with the permit and connection fee requirements.

Upcoming construction activities beginning week of December 19

Help plant rain gardens around the WRF

Interested in native plants? The Washington State University Mason County Extension Program is helping plant rain gardens at the water reclamation facility. Mason County along with the WSU Mason County Extension Program is inviting you to participate in an upcoming “planting party” at the Water Reclamation Facility. Several are being held: 

• Wednesday, December 21
• Thursday, December 22
• Thursday, December 29
• Friday, December 30
• Wednesday, January 4
• Thursday, January 5

Timing for all dates is between 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

The planting party will be open to all who are interested in participating, however advanced registration is required. Please email masonraingardens@gmail.com or call 360-867-2166 or 275-4467 x689. Additional details will be provided upon registration.

Reminder – Less than two weeks left until the Phase 1 Deadline!

If you have a developed property within 500 feet of the Phase 1 sewer system and are located inside the urban growth area, you need to apply for a permit and pay your connection fees by December 31, 2011 in order to avoid paying higher costs. PLEASE NOTE: You still have until March 15, 2012 to construct your side sewer and have inspection completed, connect to the sewer system and decommission your septic tank.

A mailed reminder notice was sent to all property owners who have not yet paid their fees as of Monday, December 12, 2011. For questions about hookup requirements, please contact us at the phone or email below.  If you are required to connect and have not yet applied for a permit to construct your side sewer, please visit the County offices in Shelton (410 N. 4th St) to do so soon. The Utilities and Waste Management office hours are:
Monday-Thursday: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Fridays: 7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
 
Please note: The office will be closed on Monday, December 26th. The last day the offices will be open in 2011 is Friday, December 30 until 4:00 p.m.

Revised Draft Final Sewer Ordinance Posted Online

A revised draft of the Final Sewer Ordinance has been posted on the Project Library.

After considering public input at and since the 5th Tuesday Mason County Commissioners Meeting on November 29, 2011, some changes to the draft final ordinance have occurred:

• All references to Phase 2, including the “Capacity Reservation Charge,” have been removed. 
• Connection deadlines have been clarified. The ordinance reiterates that property owners have until December 31, 2011 to achieve the cheapest connection rate of $3,000 per ERU. It identifies that Phase 1 property owners have until March 15, 2012 for physical connection to the system after a December 31, 2011 fee deadline. In recognition of a number of factors, including the fact that the new system will not be ready to accept sewage until January 15, 2012, many owners wanted to be able to take advantage of the least expensive connection charges but were not quite ready to connect or be able to complete their connection by the December 31, 2011 date. Mason County staff have worked to extend the deadline for physical connection to the system, including: side sewer construction, connection to the system, and septic tank decommissioning until March 15, 2012. Construction during this time frame allows these property owners to remain in compliance with the permit and connection fee requirements.

Public feedback on the Revised Draft Ordinance is still welcome. On December 20, the County Commissioners will hold a public hearing and then are expected to vote on the Final Rate Ordinance. Below are the details for the public hearing date and location:

• Tuesday, December 20, 2011, Public Hearing, 9:00 a.m.
  Commissioners Chambers, 410 N. 5th Street, Mason County Building 1, Shelton WA 98584

Final Sewer Rate Ordinance Public Hearing on December 20

Thanks to those of you who attended the 5th Tuesday Meeting on November 29 to discuss the final sewer rate ordinance. Materials from that meeting are now available in the Project Library.
 
On December 20, the County Commissioners will hold a public hearing and then are expected to vote on the Final Rate Ordinance. Below are the details for the public hearing date and location:

• Tuesday, December 20, 2011, Public Hearing, 9:00 a.m.
  Commissioners Chambers, 410 N. 5th Street, Mason County Building 1, Shelton WA 98584
  

Upcoming construction activities beginning week of December 12

At the water reclamation facility (WRF) crews are finishing final grading in some areas around the treatment plant buildings and installing necessary pipework to connect the WRF, storage pond and sprayfield, as well as electrical work for outside lighting. At the storage pond, crews continue to install fabric liners, dig drainage ditches, fortify the banks with rocks, and complete the reclaimed water line from the WRF to the sprayfield as weather allows.

Please note: Contractor schedules are dependent upon weather conditions and delivery of materials.

Strong turnout at the 5th Tuesday Meeting

Thank you to those who attended the 5th Tuesday meeting on Nov. 29. Meeting materials, including the presentation, FAQ, and the DRAFT Final Rate Ordinance as of 11/22/2011 (pending County Commissioner review) that were distributed at the meeting are now available online in the Project Library.

The linked draft Final Rate Ordinance is currently under review by Mason County Commissioners and staff, with public input received at the 5th Tuesday Belfair Commissioners meeting on November 29, 2011. A final rate ordinance is expected to be adopted after a public hearing on December 20, 2011.

Upcoming construction activities beginning week of November 28

• Water reclamation facility (WRF): Work on final grading around the treatment plant buildings continues this week. Crews also continue to install instruments and equipment at the WRF, including outside lighting.
• Storage pond: Crews continue work on the storage pond as weather allows. Work also continues this week to install fabric liners, dig drainage ditches, fortify the banks with rocks, and complete the reclaimed water line from the WRF to the sprayfield. As weather permits, crews will also work to excavate the clear well and core the concrete walls to allow for the installation of a pipe from the clear well to pond.

Please note: Contractor schedules are dependent upon weather conditions and delivery of materials.

Attend the 5th Tuesday Meeting in Belfair to learn about the Final Sewer Rate Ordinance

The Final Sewer Rate Ordinance will establish monthly rates and connection fees for all properties in the Belfair Urban Growth Area. At the meeting, staff will present the Final Sewer Rate Ordinance to County Commissioners and public comments will be heard. The final adoption of the Sewer Rate Ordinance is anticipated by County Commissioners in December.

Where: North Mason School District Headquarters, 71 E. Campus Dr.
When: Tuesday, November 29, 2011, 6 p.m.

Upcoming construction activities beginning week of November 21

• Water reclamation facility (WRF): Due to the inclement weather, crews are working mostly inside the WRF this week. Work on final grading around the treatment plant buildings will continue next week. Crews will also continue to install instruments and equipment at the WRF, including outside lighting. 
• Storage pond: Crews continue work on the storage pond as weather allows. Work will continue next week to install fabric liners, dig drainage ditches, fortify the banks with rocks, and complete the reclaimed water line from the WRF to the sprayfield. Work will also continue to excavate the clear well and core the concrete walls to allow for the installation of a pipe from the clear well to pond.

Please note: Contractor schedules are dependent upon weather conditions and delivery of materials.

Upcoming construction activities beginning week of November 14

• Water reclamation facility (WRF): Crews are working on final grading around the treatment plant buildings and continue the preliminary work to form the rain gardens. Crews continue to install instruments and equipment at the WRF, The canopy over the ultraviolet light system is being constructed.  The conduit and excavations for outside lighting and pole bases is complete, and the pole bases will be poured this week. Air piping is being installed for all the blower systems.
• Storage pond: Crews continue installing fabric liners, backfilling and working on the reclaimed water line from the WRF to the sprayfield this week. Crews also continue to dig drainage ditches and to fortify the banks of the storage pond with rocks. Work will begin to excavate the clearwell and install a pipe from the clearwell to the pond. Wondering what a clearwell is? See here.

Please note: Contractor schedules are dependent upon weather conditions and delivery of materials.

Reminder – Phase 1 hookup deadline is December 31, 2011

If you have a developed property within 500 feet of the Phase 1 sewer system and are located inside the urban growth area, you need to apply for a permit and pay your connection fees by December 31, 2011 in order to avoid paying higher costs. If you are required to connect and have not yet applied for a permit to construct your side sewer, please visit the County offices in Shelton (410 N 4th St) to do so soon. For questions about hookup requirements, please contact us at the phone or email below.

Contact us:
Email: info@masoncountywastewater.com
Call: 360-801-2482

Upcoming construction activities beginning week of November 7

• Water reclamation facility (WRF): Crews are working on final grading around the treatment plant buildings and continue the preliminary work to form the rain gardens. Installation of lamp pole bases, underground conduit, and air line piping is beginning. Crews continue to install instruments and construct stairs for the headworks building, working toward plant operations. Wondering what the headworks are? See here.
• Storage pond: Crews continue installing fabric liners, backfilling and working on the reclaimed water line from the WRF to the sprayfield this week. They are starting on site drainage ditches and will complete a portion of the hydro-seeding along the south property berm and slopes. See recent photos from the construction site here. 
• Pump stations: Crews completed punchlist items last week. Additional work is taking place to finalize completion of this portion of the project and make some adjustments to the equipment. 

Please note: Contractor schedules are dependent upon weather conditions and delivery of materials.

It’s not too late to participate in the County Hook-up Program

Mason County is able to offer the County Hook-up Program to additional properties!  This option is available to residential and commercial property owners.

The County Hookup Program provides:

• The Opportunity to finance half of the connection fee for one equivalent residential unit (ERU), or $1,500, and the entire construction costs for building your side sewer. These costs will be rolled into your monthly sewer bill.
• No hassle of hiring a contractor – the County will hire a licensed, bonded and insured contractor who has the capability to complete multiple properties. The County will also apply for a permit and inspect your system. The County takes on the liability for the contractor constructing your system.

If you are interested in signing up for the County Hook-up Program, please call 360-801-2482 or e-mail info@masoncountywastewater.com as soon as possible.

Upcoming construction activities beginning week of October 31

• Water reclamation facility (WRF): Crews are working on final grading around the treatment plant buildings and continue the preliminary work to form the rain gardens. Crews also continue to install instruments and construct stairs for the headworks building, working toward plant operations. Wondering what the headworks are? See here.
• Storage pond: Work continues on installing fabric liners, backfilling and working on the reclaimed water line from the WRF to the sprayfield this week.
• Pump stations: Ceccanti completed punchlist items this week and is in the process of moving off-site.

Please note: Contractor schedules are dependent upon weather conditions and delivery of materials.

Upcoming construction activities beginning week of October 24

• Water reclamation facility (WRF): Crews are working on final grading around the treatment plant buildings and will start the preliminary work to form the rain gardens this week. Crews continue to install instruments and construct stairs for the headworks building, working toward plant operations. Wondering what the headworks are? See here.
• Storage pond: Crews finished the berms around the pond and poured the concrete walls for pond’s the inlet/outlet structure last week. This week, crews will install fabric liners and begin backfilling. Crews will also continue to work on the reclaimed water line from the WRF to the sprayfield this week.
• Pump stations: Final testing items were completed last week. Crews are completing punchlist items this week and Ceccanti will be completely done with their work and will move off-site by the end of the month.

Please note: Contractor schedules are dependent upon weather conditions and delivery of materials.

Upcoming construction activities beginning week of October 17

• Water reclamation facility (WRF): Equipment and instruments are installed and crews are connecting the equipment to the electrical wiring. Crews will install a cover over the ultraviolet structure this week, and construct stairs for the headworks building, working toward plant operations. Wondering what a headworks building and ultraviolet structures are? See here. 
• Storage pond: Crews are finishing the berms around the pond this week and integrating the pond and spray field with the treatment plant. Crews will also begin working on the reclaimed water line from the WRF to the sprayfield this week.
• Pump stations: Crews have completed clean water testing at the pump stations – final testing items are being completed this week. Operator training is also underway. Communications systems and testing will be taking place as the WRF nears completion.

Please note: Contractor schedules are dependent upon weather conditions and delivery of materials.

Permits and ERU information mailed

All property owners required to connect should have received a mailing with final details on the County Hookup Program (or permit applications if you’re not participating in the county program), a schedule for hooking up, and final equivalent residential units (ERUs). The permits and fact sheets are available in the Project Library.

If you have not received a packet or if you have questions about the information in your packet, please call the project hotline at 360-801-2482.

Rain Garden Ambassador volunteer positions available

Upcoming construction activities beginning week of October 3

• Water reclamation facility (WRF): Equipment and instruments continue to be installed, working toward plant operations. 
• Storage pond: Crews continue excavations for the storage pond, and continue to move a lot of dirt around the site. This week crews will focus on backfilling trenches. Crews also continue installing the drainage system beneath the pond. Key areas of the project easement are being cleared for the sprayfield; erosion control fencing has been installed and is being maintained around the site and on slopes affected by the clearing.
• Pump stations: Crews have completed clean water testing at the pump stations and crews are performing tasks to obtain final building permit and occupancy approval from the Department of Community Development. Operator training is also ongoing. Communications systems and testing will be taking place as the WRF nears completion.

Please note: Contractor schedules are dependent upon weather conditions and delivery of materials.

Upcoming construction activities beginning week of September 19

• Roadway Work: WSDOT crews continue night-time work on State Route 3 through Belfair this week, weather permitting. Hours of construction are from 8:00 PM until 5:00 AM. While the actual paving is complete crews still need to raise the manholes and finish striping. 
• Water reclamation facility (WRF):Work to complete the electrical and process systems continues at the WRF. Crews should begin work to bring piping to the pond and sprayfield and install the fire suppression water pumping system. 
• Storage pond: Crews continue excavations for the storage pond, and continue to move dirt around the site. Crews also continue installing the drainage system beneath the pond. Key areas of the project easement are being cleared for the sprayfield; erosion control fencing is being installed around the site and on slopes affected by the clearing. 
• Pump stations: We are gearing up for the start of clean water testing at the pump stations - testing and pump certification is set to begin this week. Operator training is underway. Computer programming work for the pump stations finished up last week. Communications systems and testing will be taking place as the WRF nears completion. 
• Substantial conveyance construction is nearing completion! Ceccanti crews are finishing up on many smaller remaining items (also called a “punch list”), such as repairing asphalt on private drives and working to finalize conveyance pump station buildings for occupancy.

Please note: Contractor schedules are dependent upon weather conditions and delivery of materials.

Planning Commission Meeting

Upcoming construction activities beginning week of September 12

• Roadway Work: WSDOT crews continue night-time work to pave State Route 3 through Belfair this week. Hours of construction are from 8:00 PM until 5:00 AM.
• Water reclamation facility (WRF): Equipment and instruments continue to be installed, working toward plant operations. Crews continue to pour concrete aprons and equipment pads this week at the WRF.
• Storage pond: Crews continue excavations for the storage pond, and continue to move a lot of dirt around the site. This week crews will focus on backfilling the core trenches. Crews also continue installing the drainage system beneath the pond. Key areas of the project easement are being cleared for the sprayfield; erosion control fencing is being installed around the site and on slopes affected by the clearing.
• Pump stations: We are gearing up for the start of clean water testing at the pump stations - testing and pump certification is set to begin this week. Operator training is underway. Computer programming work for the pump stations finished up last week. Communications systems and testing will be taking place as the WRF nears completion.

Please note: Contractor schedules are dependent upon weather conditions and delivery of materials.

Watch your mailbox! Permits and ERU information coming soon

Mason County Commissioners Meeting Wrap Up

Upcoming construction activities beginning week of September 6

• Roadway Work: WSDOT crews will pave State Route 3 through Belfair starting Tuesday, September 6. Hours of construction are from 8:00 PM until 4:00 AM.
• Water reclamation facility (WRF): Crews continue to pour concrete aprons and equipment pads this week at the WRF. Equipment and instruments continue to be installed, working toward plant operations.
• Storage pond: The contractor working on the storage pond added as many as 20 equipment operators this past month!  Crews continue excavations for the storage pond, and are moving a lot of dirt around the site. This week crews will also continue to focus on digging and backfilling the core trench beneath the impoundment dikes. Crews continue installing the drainage system beneath the pond. Key areas of the easement are being cleared for the sprayfield this week and erosion control fencing is being installed around the site and on slopes affected by the clearing.
• Pump stations: We are gearing up for the start of clean water testing at the pump stations - testing and pump certification is set to begin. Some operator training has taken place with more scheduled as systems are completed. Computer programming work for the pump stations finished up last week. Telemetry and testing will be taking place as the WRF nears completion.

Please note: Contractor schedules are dependent upon weather conditions and delivery of materials.

Fifth Tuesday Commissioners Meeting materials now available

Upcoming construction activities beginning week of August 29

• Water reclamation facility (WRF): Crews continue to pour concrete aprons for equipment pads this week at the WRF. The PUD finished pulling wire and fiber optic cables between Pump Station 3 and the WRF last week. Equipment and instruments continue to be installed, working toward plant operations. 
• Storage pond: Crews continue excavations for the storage pond this week, and are moving quite a lot of dirt around the site. This week crews will also continue to focus on digging a core trench that will act as the drain for the pond, and installing the drainage system beneath the pond. Key areas of the easement are continuing to be cleared for the sprayfield this week, and crews are installing piping under the nearby creek bed. Cultural resource staff will be on hand for observation during this work. 
• Pump stations: We are gearing up for the start of clean water testing at the pump stations - testing and pump certification is set to begin. Testing will soon include operator training. Computer programming work for the stations finished up last week. 
• Roadway Work: Crews completed the restriping lane markings in the project area early last week.

Please note: Contractor schedules are dependent upon weather conditions and delivery of materials.

County Hookup Program – Details Coming Soon

Upcoming construction activities beginning week of August 22

• Water reclamation facility (WRF): Crews will be pouring concrete aprons for equipment pads this week at the WRF. The PUD should finish pulling wire and fiber optic cables between Pump Station 3 and the WRF this week. Equipment and instruments continue to be installed, working toward plant operations.
• Storage pond: Crews continue excavations for the storage pond this week, and are moving quite a lot of dirt around the site. This week crews will focus on digging a core trench that will act as the drain for the pond, and installing the drainage system beneath the pond. Crews will also begin clearing key areas of the easement for the sprayfield next week, and will install piping under the nearby creek bed. Cultural resource staff will be on hand for observation during this work.
• Pump stations: We are gearing up for the start of clean water testing at the pump stations - testing and pump certification is set to begin. Testing will soon include operator training. Computer programming work for these stations will be finishing up this week.
• Roadway Work: Crews completed the restriping lane markings in the project area early last week.
  

Upcoming construction activities beginning week of August 15

• Roadway Work: Crews will be restriping lane markings in the project area early this week. No lane closures are expected.
• Pump stations: At Pump Stations 1 and 2 crews will continue installing controls and electrical this week. Crews are working to certify equipment to begin testing. Electrical work also continues at Pump Station 3 in addition to the work to set pumps and equipment. 
• Water reclamation facility (WRF): The PUD is finishing installing wire and fiber optic cables between Pump Station 3 and the WRF this week. Crews also continue to remove topsoil for the storage pond.

Please note: Contractor schedules are dependent upon weather conditions and delivery of materials.

Commissioners Pass Interim Rate Ordinance

ERU Updates Coming Soon

Upcoming construction activities beginning week of August 8

• Roadway Work: Crews will be restriping lane markings in the project area late this week or early next week. No lane closures are expected.
• Pump stations: At Pump Stations 1 and 2 crews will continue installing controls and electrical this week. Crews are working to get the equipment certified so that they can begin testing. Electrical work also continues at Pump Stations 3 in addition to the work to set pumps and equipment. 
• Water reclamation facility (WRF): The PUD will continue to install wire and fiber optic cables between Pump Station 3 and the WRF this week. Crews finished mobilizing equipment and are beginning to remove topsoil for the storage pond.

Please note: Contractor schedules are dependent upon weather conditions and delivery of materials.

Upcoming construction activities beginning week of August 1

• Roadway Work: Crews took advantage of the good weather last week and completed repair work on Roy Boad Road, Belfair Street, and Old Belfair Highway. Early this week, crews will be performing final cleanup and repairs on manholes, side sewers and pump stations.
• Pump stations: At Pump Stations 1 and 2 crews will continue installing controls and electrical this week. Crews are finishing installing fencing at Pump Station 1 this week. Electrical work also continues at Pump Stations 3 in addition to the work to set pumps and equipment.
• Water reclamation facility (WRF): Crews completed the entrance canopy and roof, and installing the acoustic ceiling and lights inside the building last week. The PUD will continue to install wire and fiber optic cables between Pump Station 3 and the WRF this week. Crews finished clearing and grubbing the area for the storage pond last week and this week will continue to mobilize equipment and begin excavating and moving dirt for the pond.

Please note: Contractor schedules are dependent upon weather conditions and delivery of materials.

Upcoming construction activities beginning week of July 25

• Roadway Work: Repair work on Roy Boad Road, Belfair Street, and Old Belfair Highway is currently being planned and will be announced when more information is available.
• Pump stations: At Pump Stations 1 and 2 crews continue installing controls and electrical this week. Electrical work also continues at Pump Stations 3 in addition to the work to set pumps and equipment. Crews will continue installing fencing at all three pump stations this week. 
• Water reclamation facility (WRF): Crews should complete the entrance canopy and roof this week, and will start work to install the acoustic ceiling and lights inside the building. The PUD will continue to install wire and fiber optic cables between Pump Station 3 and the WRF this week. Also this week, crews will begin clearing and grubbing, and will mobilize equipment for the storage pond.

Please note: Contractor schedules are dependent upon weather conditions and delivery of materials.

Additional public hearings and opportunities to provide input

Thanks to those of you who attended the Belfair wastewater Interim Sewer Rate Ordinance Public Meeting on Tuesday, July 12 and the Commissioners Meeting in Shelton on Tuesday, July 19.

An additional meeting will be held to continue to solicit input on the Interim Rate Ordinance:

• August 2, 2011 Commissioners Meeting, 9:00 a.m.
  Commissioners Chambers, 411 N 5th Street, Mason County Building 1, Shelton, WA 98584

Have comments, but can’t attend a meeting?
Please send us your comments via email and we’ll pass them on to the Commissioners for consideration: info@masoncountywastewater.com

A final Sewer Rate Ordinance will be developed later in 2011 that establishes policies and guidance for how the system will develop over time, including fees, types of connections, etc. The final ordinance will have a separate notification and public input process that will be sent to all property owners in the urban growth area later this year.

Upcoming construction activities beginning week of July 18

• Roadway Work: Crews will be inspecting manholes in the turning lanes along State Route 3 and State Route 300 today. Future repair work on Roy Boad Road, Belfair Street, and Old Belfair Highway is currently being planned and will be announced when more information is available. 
• Pump stations: Crews have started installing fencing around all three pump stations. Electrical work continues at pump stations 1 and 3. Crews will replace an electrical conduit at Pump Station 2. At Pump Station 3, crews continue to install pumps and equipment. 
• Water reclamation facility (WRF): HVAC, plumbing, electrical, cabinet and equipment installation continues at the WRF. The PUD has started to install wire and fiber optic cables. Crews will also start instrumentation and control systems work this week.

Please note: Contractor schedules are dependent upon weather conditions and delivery of materials.

Public meeting documents now available in the Project Library

Thanks to those of you who attended the Belfair wastewater Interim Sewer Rate Ordinance Public Meeting on Tuesday, July 12.

Materials from that meeting are now available on the project website. Please visit the Library Page to review the presentation, read the Draft Interim Ordinance, and catch up on the latest Frequently Asked Questions about the project.

The comment portion of the public meeting will be summarized and provided to the County Commissioners for consideration during the public hearing on July 19, 2011. Below are the details on the public hearing date and location:

• July 19, 2011 Public Hearing, 9:00 a.m.
  Commissioners Chambers, 411 N 5th Street, Mason County Building 1, Shelton, WA 98584

Have additional comments that you’d like to share with the commissioners?
Email us: info@masoncountywastewater.com

Public Meeting Notice - Tonight!

Mason County is hosting a public meeting about an Interim Sewer Rate Ordinance that will set the stage for currently-required side sewer connections between July and December 2011.

Tuesday, July 12
6:00-8:00 p.m.
North Mason School District Headquarters (71 E. Campus Drive, Belfair)

A final Sewer Rate Ordinance will be developed later in 2011 that establishes policies and guidance for how the system will develop over time, including fees, types of connections, etc. Additional notification about the final sewer ordinance will be sent to all property owners in the urban growth area later this year.

Upcoming construction activities beginning week of July 11

• Roadway Work: Crews will be inspecting manholes in the turning lanes along State Route 3 and Old Belfair Highway this week. Future repair work on Roy Boad Road and Old Belfair Highway is currently being planned and will be announced when more information is available. 
• Pump stations: Crews have started installing fencing around all three pump stations. Electrical work continues at Pump Stations 1 and 3. At Pump Station 3, crews will also be placing pumps and equipment this week. 
• Water reclamation facility (WRF): HVAC, plumbing work, electrical work, and cabinet and equipment installation continues at the WRF. The PUD has started to install wire and fiber optic cables. Crews will also start instrumentation and control systems work this week. 
• State Route 3: Paving SR 3 north of Clifton Lane is complete. WSDOT is expected to complete repaving south of Clifton Lane along SR 3 in August.

Please note: Contractor schedules are dependent upon weather conditions and delivery of materials.

Upcoming construction activities beginning week of July 6 (no work on July 4th and 5th)

• State Route 3: Paving SR 3 north of Clifton Lane is complete. WSDOT is expected to complete repaving south of Clifton Lane along SR 3 in August.
• Other Roadway Work: The contractor paved a section of Roy Boad Road this past week. Future repair work on Roy Boad Road and Old Belfair Highway is currently being planned and will be announced when more information is available. 
• Pump Stations: Crews continue electrical work at Pump Stations 1 and 3. At Pump Stations 2 and 3, crews are placing pumps and equipment. Electrical work and landscaping at Pump Station 3 also continues this week. 
• Water Reclamation Facility (WRF): HVAC and plumbing work continues at the WRF this week. Crews will also begin to install cabinets and conduits for power and communications, and start to place pumps and piping this week.

Upcoming construction activities beginning week of June 27

• State Route 3: Paving SR 3 north of Clifton Lane is complete. WSDOT is expected to complete repaving south of Clifton Lane along SR 3 in August.
• Other Roadway Work: The contractor is planning to begin paving Roy Boad Road and repair a manhole on Old Belfair Highway, signage will direct drivers in the area. The paving and repair work are weather contingent but could affect traffic through the area. 
• Pump stations: Crews continue electrical work and grading at Pump Station 1. Restoration work is finishing at Pump Station 2. At Pump Station 3 crews are continuing electrical work and have finished installing grass pavers; the grass will be planted in the coming weeks. 
• Water reclamation facility (WRF): On the interior of the building, electrical work continues, as does plumbing and installation of process equipment, and some minor slabs will be poured for stair landing and door aprons. The contractor will be improving underground vault access to allow the PUD to install wire and fiber optic cable in the next month. Exterior painting of the building, including the roof, was recently completed.

Upcoming construction activities beginning week of June 20

• State Route 3: Paving SR 3 north of the Clifton intersection is complete. The contractor finish grouting and painting manholes this week, no lane closures are expected.  
• Pump stations: Crews will continue electrical work at Pump Stations 1 and 3 this week. Work also continues on the grading at Pump Station 1. Restoration work is finishing up at Pump Station 2 and crews are continuing to install grass pavers at Pump Station 3. 
• Water reclamation facility (WRF): On the exterior of the building crews continue painting piping and completing the siding installation and the trim and roofing. On the interior of the building, electrical work continues, as does plumbing and installation of process equipment, fabricated metal, and some minor slabs will be poured for stair landing and door aprons.

Please note: Contractor schedules are dependent upon weather conditions and delivery of materials

County-Sponsored Hook Up Program – Last Chance!

It is not too late to sign up for more information about the County Hook-up Program. By expressing interest in the program, you are not obligated to participate; you will have a chance to review the final costs and program details before signing a final agreement.

Mason County is offering a hook-up program where property owners can opt-in to have the County hire a contractor to construct their side sewer and decommission their existing septic tank. This option is available to residential and commercial property owners; priority will be given to single-family residences.

Here’s the program:

• Opportunity to finance half of the connection fee for one equivalent residential unit (ERU), or $1,500, and the entire construction costs for building your side sewer. These costs will be rolled into your monthly sewer bill, lowering your up-front costs, and spreading payment over 10 years.
• No hassle of hiring a contractor, applying for a permit, and getting your system inspected; the County will do this for you.
• The County takes on the liability for the contractor constructing your system.

Construction costs for side sewers will vary based on the type of connection for your property (i.e. gravity system vs. low pressure system) and the distance from the stub to your building. The County will estimate construction costs for your side sewer as a part of this program, and charge an average fee to property owners for this work. Details will be finalized and sent to interested property owners in early July. 

Upcoming construction activities beginning week of June 13

• Night work on SR 3: The contractor will be repaving SR 3 north of Clifton Lane this week. Work is scheduled for Wednesday and possibly Thursday nights starting around 7 p.m.; during this time lane closures are expected and drivers should expect delays. This work is weather-dependent and will be rescheduled in the case of rain
• Pump stations: Grading work continues at Pump Station 1 this week. At Pump Station 2, crews will finish restoration work this week. At Pump Station 3, crews will continue electrical work and install grass pavers.
• Water reclamation facility (WRF): On the exterior of the building crews continue painting piping and completing the siding installation and the trim and roofing. On the interior of the building, electrical work continues, as does plumbing and installation of process equipment, fabricated metal, and some minor slabs will be poured for stair landing and door aprons.

Please note: Contractor schedules are dependent upon weather conditions and delivery of materials.

Upcoming construction activities beginning week of June 6

• Pump stations: Crews continue electrical work at Pump Station 3. Grading and drainage work at pump stations 2 and 3 continue in preparation for the final paving of the roadways later this week. Crews are also preparing to paint interior manholes this week. 
• Water reclamation facility (WRF): On the exterior of the building crews will be painting piping and completing the siding installation and the trim and roofing. On the interior of the building, crews continue interior painting and installing fire pump piping and covers for the odor control system. Also inside, crews are preparing to pour concrete in the stair landings, installing ductwork and electrical conduits.

Please note: Contractor schedules are dependent upon weather conditions and delivery of materials.

Businesses! Wondering about your ERU?

Businesses who submitted partial or complete water data should have received an estimated ERU.

Please note: If you did not submit water data for your business or commercial property, you still can. We are requesting twelve months of water data for all of the businesses on your property in order to calculate an ERU estimate based on your actual water usage. If you do not submit water data, your ERU will be based on industry engineering standards. Please contact us on the project hotline at 360-801-2482 if you have questions about your ERU.

Upcoming construction activities beginning week of May 30

• Pump stations: Crews continue electrical work at all three pump stations. Grading and drainage work at pump stations 2 and 3 continues in preparation for the final paving of the roadways. Soon, crews will begin installing the pumps and final equipment at each pump station.
• Water reclamation facility (WRF): The water, sprinkler and plumbing systems in the control building are nearly finished. Electrical work and installation of transformers and vaults for the main power supply continues. Installing sheet rock and painting the interior of the building also continues. Crews will begin to install vaults for the treatment supply next week.

Please note: Contractor schedules are dependent upon weather conditions and delivery of materials.

Upcoming construction activities beginning week of May 23

• Pump stations: Crews continue electrical work at all three pump stations. Grading and drainage work at pump stations 2 and 3 continues to prepare for the final paving of the roadways. Soon, crews will begin installing the pumps and final equipment at each pump station.
• Water reclamation facility (WRF): The water, sprinkler and plumbing systems in the control building are nearly finished. Electrical work and installation of transformers and vaults for the main power supply also continues to progress. Sheet rock on the interior of the building continues, and painting will begin once the sheet rock is installed.

Please note: Contractor schedules are dependent upon weather conditions and delivery of materials.

Upcoming construction activities beginning week of May 16

• Pump stations: Crews continue electrical work and final grading at all three pump stations. Soon, crews will begin installing the pumps and final equipment at each pump station.
• Water reclamation facility (WRF): The water, sprinkler and plumbing systems in the control building are nearly finished. Electrical work and the placement of machinery also continues to progress. Sheet rock on the interior of the building is underway, and painting will begin once the sheet rock is installed.
• New construction photos: Interested in what progress is being made on the pump stations and WRF? Photos of recent construction activities are added regularly to the project website.

Upcoming construction activities beginning week of May 9

• Electrical work: Crews will continue working (weather permitting) to push electrical wires under SR 3 just south of Romance Hill Road. This work will not affect traffic but trucks will be present on either side of the highway.
• Pump stations: Crews continue electrical work at all three pump stations. At Pump Station 1, grading will be completed after the underground conduit is installed. The pumps at Station 1 will also begin to be installed.
• Water reclamation facility (WRF): The water, sprinkler and plumbing systems in the control building are nearly finished. Installation of sheet rock, electrical work, and the placement of machinery also continues to progress.

Upcoming construction activities beginning week of May 2

• Electrical work: Crews will continue working (weather permitting) to push electrical wires under SR 3 just south of Romance Hill Road. This work will not affect traffic but trucks will be present on either side of the highway.
• Pump stations: Crews continue electrical work at all three pump stations. The pump stations are at various stages of completion, from 60-90 percent complete. The work this week should not affect general traffic but trucks may still be present.
• Water reclamation facility (WRF): Crews will install fire sprinklers and HVAC systems inside the WRF this week. Interior framing and sheetrock work will also continue this week at the operations building. Crews will also continue installing metal roofing.
  

Upcoming construction activities beginning week of April 25

• Electrical work: Crews will be working to push electrical wires under SR 3 just south of Romance Hill Road. This work will not affect traffic but trucks will be present on either side of the highway.
• Pump stations: Crews continue to install utilities at Pump Station 3. Electrical work continues at all three stations. This work should not affect general traffic but trucks may still be present.
• Water reclamation facility (WRF): Crews completed the last concrete pour at the headworks building and work will continue primarily inside the WRF this week. Interior framing and electrical work will continue this week at the operations building. Some grading will occur on the grounds around the WRF.

Upcoming construction activities beginning week of April 18

• Pump stations: Work continues at all Pump Stations. At Pump Station 3, crews are installing utilities and at Pump Stations 1 & 2, electrical work continues. This work should not affect traffic but truck traffic may still be present.
• Water reclamation facility (WRF): Crews will be completing the last concrete pour at the headworks this week, as well as installing materials and equipment inside the buildings. The roof is complete; interior framing and electrical work is underway in the operations building.

Upcoming construction activities beginning week of April 11

• Pump stations: Work continues at all Pump Stations. At Pump Station 3, crews will be painting interior walls and doing work on the reclaimed water lines. At Pump Stations 1 and 2, crews will be completing final grading, which includes stabilizing the bank between PS 2 and the mobile home park, and preparing for pervious pavement. None of this work should affect traffic on adjacent roadways but there is always a possibility that truck traffic may be present in these areas.
• Water reclamation facility (WRF): Crews will be wrapping up the last pour at the headworks this week, as well as installing materials and equipment inside the buildings. They will be adding the final pieces to the metal roof on the operations building, and begin framing walls inside the building. Crews will also be starting preparation for the rain gardens on the site.

Upcoming construction activities beginning week of April 4

• Pump stations: Work continues at Pump Stations 1 and 3. At Pump Station 3, crews will be completing a concrete pour and working on installing insulation at the main building, and crews will be pouring concrete pads for the generator. At Pump Station 1, crews will be working on the electrical system, as well as doing some minor underground pipe work. None of this work should affect traffic on adjacent roadways but there is always a possibility that truck traffic may be present in these areas.
• Water reclamation facility (WRF): Crews will continue to set trusses and adding the metal roof of the operations building, and work will begin inside the building as soon as the roof is complete. Crews will also be installing reclaimed water pipes for the fire protection system.
  

Property Owner Side Sewer Construction - Get Ready!

Questions about your side sewer?

Upcoming construction activities beginning week of March 28

• Side sewer installation: A side sewer stub will be installed near the Sheriff’s Annex on Monday or Tuesday of this week. This work will require a lane shift and flaggers will be present to direct traffic.
• Pump stations: Work continues at all three pump stations this week. Most work will be done at Pump Station 3, where crews will be working on the wet well, HVAC work and framing for a concrete pour. Other work will primarily include electrical work, which should not affect traffic on adjacent roadways. There is always a possibility that truck traffic may be present in these areas.
• Water reclamation facility (WRF): Crews are framing for a concrete pour for the odor chamber and the final pour at the headworks building this week. Crews will continue to set trusses for the roof of the operations building, and work will begin inside the building as soon as the roof is complete. Electrical work will continue. See the Treatment Facilities page for more information about the WRF site plan.
• Project progress: Crews made the final pipe connection at the WRF last week, which means that the WRF is now connected, by conveyance line pipes, to all three pump stations!

Watch your mailbox!

Properties required to hook up to the sewer should be receiving detailed information in the coming days about their type of hook-up, construction options, the permit process, ERU estimate and more.  Questions can be directed to the project hotline at 360-801-2482 or by email at info@masoncountywastewater.com.   

Upcoming construction activities beginning week of March 21

• Project Team in the community: Members of the project team will be in the community this week gathering data to facilitate finalization of ERU calculations. Businesses may receive a call or visit.  Please call (360-801-2482) or email the project if you have any questions.
• Pump stations: Work continues at all three pump stations this week and will primarily include electrical work, which should not affect traffic on adjacent roadways. There is always a possibility that truck traffic may be present in these areas.
• Water reclamation facility (WRF): Crews are framing for another pour at the headworks building this week, which will complete the second floor of the building. The headworks building is the first place influent sewage enters the WRF (see the Treatment Facilities page for more information). Crews will continue to set trusses for the roof of the operations building this week, and electrical work will continue throughout the WRF.
• Side sewer installation: A side sewer stub still needs to be installed near the Sheriff’s Annex. This work is scheduled to be completed in the next two or three weeks; we will keep you posted as this work gets scheduled.

Upcoming construction activities beginning week of March 14

• Temporary water shut-off near the Sheriff's Annex: This Wednesday from approximately 4 to 6 a.m., crews will be relocating a water line near the bore pit, which will require a temporary water shut off.  The work will affect businesses in the area; we will notify affected businesses in advance. 
• Expected lane shift on SR 3 Monday and Tuesday: On Monday and Tuesday, crews will be installing a side sewer stub for the building south of the Sheriff’s Annex. This work will require a lane shift on SR 3 - two lanes will remain open and flaggers will direct traffic.
• Pump stations: The pump stations have taken shape. Work this week will primarily include electrical work at all three pump stations, which should not affect traffic on adjacent roadways. There is always a possibility that truck traffic may be present in these areas.
• Water reclamation facility (WRF): Crews poured concrete for walls of the grit chamber in the headworks building last week. The headworks building is where the sewage first enters the WRF and the grit chamber is where any large garbage is filtered out before the water is sent to the basins for treatment (see the Treatment Facilities page for more information). Large equipment has been placed in the WRF basins. Work this week will be focused on completing the roof of the structure of the entire facility.

Upcoming construction activities – beginning week of March 7

• Work on Old Belfair Highway: This Thursday crews will be doing work in a man hole on Old Belfair Highway. The work will affect traffic; one lane will be closed and flaggers will direct traffic around the work.
• Pump stations: The pump stations continue to take shape and work will continue this week. Work should not affect traffic on SR 3 or Romance Hill Road, however truck traffic may be present in these areas. The majority of pump station work will be done at Pump Station 3 (off Sunlit Canyon at Romance Hill Road), where carpenters are finishing the building siding and connecting pipes that will link PS 3 to the WRF. At Pump Station 1 (across from the Thrift Store on SR 3), crews will be pouring the concrete pad for the generator. Electrical work continues at all three pump stations.