BY MARK SCHUMANN
Mounting scientific evidence is pointing to septic tank runoff as a major source of pollution in the Indian River Lagoon. In response to public pressure to act, City Councilman Richard Winger plans to ask the Council to direct City Manager Jim O’Connor to develop a proposal for expanding sewer service to homes located on streets adjacent to the Lagoon, as well as to properties abutting canals that drain into the Lagoon.
As background information for an agenda item to be considered at the June 4 Council meeting, Winger outlined a possible five-year plan to expand sanitary sewer and re-use water service to homes along streets such as Live Oak Road and Indian River Drive.
Within the city there are some 900 septic tanks. Many of them were installed before stricter standerds were adopted in the early 1980s requiring more separation from the Lagoon and from the water table.
Based on the assumption that the septic tanks closest to the Lagoon are causing the most pollution, Winger proposes to make it possible for all properties adjacent to canals and the Lagoon to connect to sanitary sewer service within five years. Winger said he hopes work could begin some time during the 2013-2014 fiscal year.
If state and federal money cannot be secured to help pay for the project, Winger’s proposal would have the city fund the expansion of its sewer service using revenue bonds and projected electric savings for the water and sewer department.
Winger said the city might also consider waving impact fees and possibly even offering a connection rebate.
The Cities of Stuart and Sarasota have both begun similar programs to expand their sewer service to reduce septic tank pollution of their fragile waters. Stuart officials chose to offer an optional plan, while Sarasota is implementing a mandatory program.
Winger said that among the questions to be answered are how many new sewer lines the city will need to install, and how much the project will cost.
While some have argued for eliminating all septic tanks within the city, Winger is proposing the city consider an incremental approach.
Winger said he believes it is time to begin a measured approach to converting existing septic tanks to sanitary sewer. “To keep our Vero Vero, nothing is more important than saving the lagoon.”
Indian River Guardian 
Refresh my memory. What about the rest of Indian River County and septic tanks? I am delighted Mr. Winger has made these proposals for the City of Vero Beach. To bring the lagoon back to life, I imagine Indian River Shores, Orchid, Wabasso, and Sebastian will also be joining in. Won’t they?
Richard Gillmor : The water quality in the Keyes has dramatically improved because of sewer hook ups. Kudos to Vero if they take the first step. Sebastian should follow with a search for some Federal or State grant money to save the Lagoon. I’d look at those residences that have close proximity to the Lagoon first as Vero is doing.