MALIBU : Study Disputes Claims of Septic Tank Hazard
A long-awaited Malibu study disputes claims by Los Angeles County officials that leaking septic tanks pose a health threat and concludes that the community does not need the comprehensive sewer system long promoted by the county.
In a 268-page report based on six months of research, a consultant hired by Malibu calls instead for a “cutting edge” approach to the city’s waste-water needs that relies overwhelmingly on continued use of septic tanks, something the county has asserted is unacceptable.
The report by consultant Peter Warshall, released this week, is expected to serve as a blueprint for Malibu’s leaders as they seek once and for all to rid themselves of the county’s sewer proposal and replace it with a plan of their own.
Opposition to the proposed $43-million sewer system served as the catalyst for Malibu’s successful drive to incorporate last year.
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