Nantucket Current | Board of Health Passes Temporary Moratorium On…

In a recent meeting, Nantucket’s Board of Health made headlines by unanimously passing a temporary moratorium on septic variance requests in nitrogen-sensitive areas. This decision comes amid ongoing concerns about environmental impact, particularly relating to nitrogen levels, and highlights the delicate balance between development and ecological sustainability on the island.

The primary focus of this moratorium is to limit homeowners’ ability to add additional bedrooms to their properties in certain areas known for their sensitivity to nitrogen. Board of Health chair Malcolm MacNab emphasized the need for this temporary measure, stating, “Although we are obligated to consider each variance application on its own individual merits, I believe that it is in the public interest to impose a temporary moratorium.” This will allow the Board to collect and review the necessary information and scientific advancements to make informed decisions moving forward.

The board’s regulations limit the number of bedrooms allowed in homes based on square footage, primarily to control nitrogen emissions into the environment. Nitrogen, abundant in human waste, is a critical nutrient for plant growth; however, excessive concentrations can lead to severe environmental damage. This is particularly true in delicate ecosystems such as wetlands and aquatic environments, where increased nitrogen can lead to invasive species flourishing at the expense of native plants and animals.

Historically, homeowners have been able to apply for variances allowing them to increase the number of bedrooms by switching from traditional septic systems to more advanced innovative or alternative (IA) systems. These IA systems are designed to treat sewage more effectively, resulting in reduced nitrogen release into the environment. However, concerns have surfaced among board members about whether these systems sufficiently mitigate the risks associated with adding more bedrooms to a property.

At the recent meeting, MacNab pointed out, “Recently, it has been suggested that increasing the number of bedrooms on a property can be more detrimental to the health and environment of the island and that the benefits of an IA system do not sufficiently offset that harm.” He noted that since the adoption of IA regulations, new developments in technology and scientific research have emerged, raising questions about their effectiveness in practical applications.

Board member Merideth Lepore echoed these concerns, emphasizing the broader implications of increasing the number of bedrooms in terms of community resources. “That’s two more people for every bedroom. The pressure on our hospital, on our fire department, on our roads, on our water,” she cautioned. Her insights highlight the interconnectedness of environmental policies and community health services, underscoring that careful deliberation is necessary to safeguard both the ecosystem and the quality of life for Nantucket residents.

The moratorium is set to remain in effect until the next Board of Health meeting on September 18, allowing the board ample time to consult with experts and evaluate existing scientific data. During this period, existing variance applications submitted before the moratorium must be heard, but the board retains the option to reject them without prejudice. This provision enables homeowners to reapply once the moratorium expires.

It’s crucial to note that the moratorium does not extend to applications aimed at replacing or upgrading failed septic systems, provided there is no increase in sewage flow, nor does it apply to systems that do not require a variance. This clarification demonstrates the board’s commitment to maintaining public health while still addressing the urgent need for infrastructure improvements.

At the same meeting, the Board of Health voted 3-1 to approve three septic variance requests, despite the newly instituted moratorium. With Lepore as the lone dissenting voice, this outcome further emphasizes the complexities surrounding septic regulations and environmental stewardship on the island.

The decision to implement a moratorium aligns with a growing trend among municipalities grappling with similar challenges worldwide. As urban areas face development pressures that threaten ecological balance, local governments are increasingly prioritizing sustainability alongside growth. Nantucket’s proactive stance on this matter reflects the island’s commitment to safeguarding its unique environment while continuing to serve the community’s needs.

In conclusion, while Nantucket grapples with the implications of increasing bedroom counts in nitrogen-sensitive areas, the recent moratorium provides a critical pause. This allows for thorough analysis of scientific data and community resource considerations, thereby enabling the Board of Health to uphold both environmental integrity and the wellbeing of island residents. As this dialogue progresses, it’s clear that balancing development with ecological responsibility will remain a pressing issue on Nantucket and beyond.

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