When we first came to Seeley Lake in the late 1990’s, there was much discussion about the sewer system. We were interested in the future planning for this community and went to the Missoula County Office and obtained a Seeley Lake Comprehensive Plan Amendment. This was adopted by the County Board of Commissioners and the Seeley Lake Community Council on May 10, 1989.
This amendment, “was an effort by the people of the Seeley Lake Area to outline the direction in which they wish their community to go and to set specific goals for accomplishing the short and long-term objectives of the plan.”
On page 7, IV. Sewage Disposal, it reads: “Efficient and effective sewage treatment and disposal are ESSENTIAL for both the HEALTH and ECONOMY of the Seeley Lake Community. Many of the older sewage disposal facilities in the area consist of oil drums, wooden cesspools, old underground car bodies and other makeshift devices. Newer individual on-site sewer systems approved by the Health Department consist of a septic tank and drain field. However, in general, central sewer service provides a better level of treatment, particularly in course soils, than individual systems”. In addition, “a central sewer service is typically more economical for properties close to existing lines and may be the most cost-effective means of providing treatment for large scale commercial facilities requiring main extensions. Rental Housing, retirement homes, etc., can often be more conveniently located if sewage disposal is not a limiting factor.”
The Commissioners recommended that the “Community Council investigate the feasibility of installing a central sewer system….and “to find a better method of sewage disposal to protect the HEALTH of our people, prevent POLLUTION of our lakes and streams, PROTECT the natural beauty and resources, and make possible a more efficient use of our land for both residential and business purposes.”
The amendment also reads, “to help low and moderate-income residents fund solutions to problems that adversely impact the health and welfare of area residents and visitors. Funding should be sought through state and federal grant programs, utilizing available county staff when possible”.
1. The candidates running for the Board presented 3 concerns: “A challenge to make a living here.” True. However, a new sewage system would create jobs, encourage more businesses and more opportunities. As a recreational area and as visitors travel Highway 83 (Parkway to Glacier) we need the system and we need Public Restrooms!
2. “People don’t understand what is going on.” Information has been provided for several years over this subject (flyers, newspaper articles, meetings after meetings). Anyone not informed needs to come forward and speak to the topics of their concern. I too, am a homeowner in Phase I and see the areas eroding and affecting our ground water.
3. “Laying the cost of future development on current residents.” Granted, the cost as well as the undertaking is HUGE! The cost has always been an issue and is still the issue. However, we have access to a large amount of Federal funding, qualify for additional funding and private sponsors will contribute to a necessary cause. The projected cost for homeowners is still to be determined.
Highway 83, as the ‘Parkway to Glacier’ will bring thousands more visitors. An Assisted Living facility will ensure our seniors will remain in the area they call home. Affordable housing cannot be built due to current regulations. Support Robert Skiles, Mike Lindemer and Mark Butcher, who have volunteered their energy for these purposes and let them finish the job! They’re more than qualified to continue with the objectives adopted 29 years ago!
Paid For By Rachelle Harman, PO Box 593, Seeley Lake, MT 59868
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