After more than two years work Cowlitz County officials believe they can see the finish line on the controversial septic system ordinance.

Commissioners made some minor word changes to the ordinance during their Tuesday meeting and took four comments — a far cry from the 400 protesters who packed the hearing room in September or the 100 who spoke out last month.

Many of Tuesday’s changes were minor, but they don’t address the core objection that the state or county can force homeowners to require inspections annually or every three years.

After public outcry, the rules were changed to allow homeowners to conduct the inspections themselves.

“Most of the comments were primarily to let the state know we think the state has gone too far,” Commissioner Axel Swanson said. That said, Swanson said the thinks the ordinance created by two committees and public comments is as flexible as possible while still following state law.

Commissioner Kathleen Johnson added that most septic system owners are responsible but the regulations are needed for those who are not.

“Sometimes we just have to have rules for rascals,” she said.

The ordinance was first proposed in 2007 to provide more consistent rules for septic systems. In the past vague rules and definitions meant one inspector might approve a system while another would deny the same design, Swanson said.

Engineer Lloyd Inman testified that the regulations are needed to end that confusion.

“We do need something in writing so we’re all working from the same level,” he said.

Commissioners are expected to review the changes and possibly adopt the ordinance after a 10 a.m. hearing on Sept. 8.

Related articles:

County commissioners postpone septic vote as opponents pack Tuesday meeting  (Aug. 18)

County ready to unveil new septic system rules  (Aug. 11)

Public turns up nose at septic tank law  (Sept. 17, 2008)