The Town of Hartford says it is not interested in Norwich joining the Hartford sewer system. That news is a setback to the Norwich School District. It was seriously looking at a hookup to the Hartford sewer system as a possible solution to the Marion Cross School septic problem. The news may also be a setback for further economic development in Norwich.The 2020 Town Plan cites the absence of wastewater infrastructure as a limit to growth in in the Village and along Route 5 South.
The email from Hartford Town Manager Tracy Yarlott‐Davis said: “Based on our current town plan, sewer study, current waste water capacity, and current significant capital improvement projects, we cannot entertain future discussions regarding [a sewer connection].” Dan Fraser, Chair of the Hartford Selectboard also signed the email. A reply email made clear that Hartford’s position extended to the sewer study contemplated by the Norwich Planning Commission.
The Norwich School Board discussed this topic at its May 5 meeting. Board member Neil Odell expressed disappointment with the decision. However, he also thanked both Town Managers and the Hartford Selectboard “for their time in reviewing and working with the [School] Board up to this point,” say the draft meeting minutes on BoardDocs.
The School Board continues to explore other sites for off-site septic. The 67-acre Dresden Athletic Fields on Route 5 South are high on that list. Results of soil tests are expected in late May. If Marion Cross School were to use a small portion of those fields for septic, the Dresden School District might resurrect the concept of building a pavilion with bathrooms for participants and spectators attending games and practices there.