The Norwich School Board continues to explore options to repair or replace the failing septic system serving Marion Cross School, whose problematic leach field is beneath the Green. The Board is gathering information and hopes to receive recommendations from its engineering firm at the October meeting, indicated School Board Chair Tom Candon at the September 4 meeting, as seen on CATV. The goal is to make a decision in December, but no later than January, so that voters can weigh in at Town Meeting in March.
One option under consideration is connecting the school to the Town of Hartford’s sewer system, by running a line down Route 5. Grants may be available to defray costs. In addition, the Family Place, King Arthur Flour, and Norwich Commerce Park are interested in joining the project. The Norwich School Board will make a presentation to the Hartford Selectboard later this month.
Another option, overhauling the leach field in place may be a cheaper monetary option in the short term. However, that option carries what SAU 70 Business Administrator Jamie Teague termed a “cultural cost” as the leach field will need to be fenced. That area is a significant part of the Green. Ms. Teague also indicated at the Board meeting that grant funds are probably not available.
A status report from the engineering firm is in the School Board packet for the August 22 meeting and here.
Originally published on HereCast on September 15, 2019