Frequently Asked Questions
Why is this project needed?
The project is being completed to protect and support the restoration of Hood Canal. The sewer system will provide the backbone of infrastructure required for the Urban Growth Area by the Growth Management Act.
How is this project being funded?
Mason County has secured $28.3 million in funding for the project through federal and state grants, and loans. Operation of the system will be funded through monthly utility bills. See costs for more information.
What will the sewer rate be?
Once the system is operational, the average household can expect to pay $86-$100 per month for sewer service.
What will I have to pay for?
Connecting to the system does have associated fees that you as a property owner are responsible for:
- There will be a fee to connect to the public sewer. The connection fee is being developed and will likely be approximately $3,200-$5,000.
- In addition, it will cost an average of $2,500-$3,000 to re-plumb your sewer to connect to the main system and disconnect from your septic tank. Sometimes this is referred to as "building a side sewer." These individual costs are property-dependent and will vary.
- Once the system is operational, the average household can expect to pay $86-$100 per month for sewer service.
By what date will we need to have septic systems decommissioned and be ready for waste to be handled by the treatment plant?
The exact timeline for septic decommissioning and tying into the system has not yet been determined. A transition plan is being developed by Mason County. At this time, the system is expected to be operational by December 2010.
Will there be county-subsidized side sewer construction or loan programs available?
Mason County is currently working to identify a low-interest loan provider. The most up-to-date information is available on our Side Sewers Page.
When will sewer system construction begin and when will it be operational?
The system is currently in design and construction is scheduled for late summer/early fall of 2008. According to our schedule the system should be operational by the end of 2010.
Will construction be obvious to me? What methods will be used?
To construct the sewer pipes for the conveyance system, contractors will use both "cut-and-cover" methods, as well as some “trenchless” technologies. You will see activities around Belfair throughout construction, and traffic may be impacted during some phases. Our public outreach team will be letting you know when construction activities will be in your neighborhood and what to expect.
Construction of pump stations and the treatment plant will be site specific, requiring excavation of sites to create the foundation.
Where will the wastewater treatment plant be located?
Geotechnical and design teams are still determining the best location for the wastewater treatment plant. The team has identified an area on the east side of the railroad tracks for the wastewater treatment plant, above Romance Hill Road. See Map.
Where will treated water go?
Water will be treated to Class A standards to use for irrigation. See our Facilities Page for more information.