Hearing in Sunriver Wed. evening on S. county sewers

Deschutes County commissioners will receive public input Wednesday on a proposed exception to state land use requirements that would allow, but not require, sewer systems in rural areas outside of La Pine.

The proposed exception to Goal 11 of state land-use laws is intended to protect groundwater in southern Deschutes County, officials said Monday.

The public hearing will begin at 6 p.m. at the Sunriver Homeowners Aquatic and Recreation Center (SHARC), located at 57250 Overlook Road.

State land use requirements normally prohibit new or expanded sewer systems in rural areas.

However, exceptions are allowed when they help to protect public health. In this instance, allowing property owners the option of connecting to sewer systems will help protect groundwater, county officials said.

For questions about the exception, please contact Peter Russell, Deschutes County Senior Transportation Planner, at (541) 383-6718 or Robert Baggett, DEQ, at (541) 278-4609.