Politics & Government
Septic Tank Law Raises Stink at 'Patriots' Meeting: VIDEO
Members of the Pinecrest Patriots chapter of the Tampa 912 Project meet monthly to discuss political issues. The group includes members from throughout Eastern Hillborough County.
Some eastern Hillsborough County residents are turning up their noses at state law that requires septic tank inspections every five years, an issue raised May 7 at the monthly meeting of a conservative grassroots activist group.
The bill, passed by the Florida Legislature last year, became effective Jan. 1. Inspections would be phased in over the next five years.
A bill repealing the septic tank law was approved by the Florida House in April, 110-3. The Senate version of the bill was still in the rules committee when the legislative session ended May 6 .
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“The intent at first was to inspect septic tanks that are close to springs," said Shirley Wood, speaking at the meeting of the Pincrest Patriots chapter of the Tampa 912 Project in Lithia. Her concern, she added, is that now it's been "expanded to cover all the tanks in the state.”
The conservative grassroots activist group meets every Saturday at Country Corner, 7013 Lithia Pinecrest Road. The group’s name was selected to recall the mood of the nation the day after the 9/11 terrorist attacks. The Lithia branch, draws members from throughout eastern Hillsborough; organizers say the group has 50-60 members.
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There are more than 2.6 million septic tanks in Florida, many more than 30 years old.
Supporters of the new law say it will help protect the environment.
Opponents say the inspections, costing $100-$150, put an unfair burden on homeowners using septic tanks. They fear state inspections will put many homeowners in the position to replace their septic tanks at a cost of anywhere from $8,000 to $15,000.
The septic tank issue is illustrative of those raised and discussed by the Lithia branch members.
“Our goal is educate the public and keep voters informed so hopefully they can hold our representative’s feet to the fire,” Wood said. “As a result, we invite people from both sides when we hold meetings.”
Added Kim Kelley, a longtime member of the Lithia chapter: “We try to be fair to everyone and just push people to get involved."
