‘Gang cesspool’ conversion could be late

Kaua‘i County officials could have more money available to aid their efforts to convert large-capacity cesspools to septic or sewage systems, but it won’t stop the hands of time.

Agents of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recently awarded a $10.2-million grant to officials at the Department of Health, and some of that money could be used to help Kaua‘i convert so-called “gang cesspools” before the April 2005 deadline set by EPA leaders.

“We’ve already got a $200,000 grant, and have applied for a $1.1-million loan from the state’s sewer revolving fund,” said Doug Haigh, chief of the Building Division in the county Department of Public Works.

But with 40 major facilities needing conversion, such as resorts and large businesses, Haigh said he’s not sure Kaua‘i can convert in time.

“I can’t guarantee it,” he said. “Once we get the projects out to bid, I’ll know more.”

The EPA could theoretically fine counties more than $20,000 per day for late compliance.

However, EPA leaders have been pleased with Kaua‘i’s commitment to the conversion process, and will probably “be very kind to us,” Haigh said.

Any money coming to Kaua‘i from the latest grant award will probably be deposited and distributed through the state’s revolving fund, from which counties can borrow money through low-interest loans. The problem is that those loans have to be paid back, Haigh said.

“We’re responding to an un-funded mandate,” Haigh said. “I wish it were an out-right grant.”

The revolving fund program was created in 1987 to replace the federal construction grants program.

The current state program has $334 million available to fund a wide variety of water-quality projects, including non-point source pollution abatement, watershed protection or restoration, and traditional municipal wastewater treatment projects.

There are $78.5 million in projects planned for the next fiscal year.

Business Editor Phil Hayworth may be reached at 245-3681 (ext. 251) or mailto:phayworth@pulitzer.net.