The Town of Orleans, under the authority of Chapter 239 of the
Acts of 1992, may financially assist property owners through a program
to comply with the town's requirements to repair and/or upgrade
private septic disposal systems. Where an existing septic disposal
system constitutes a present or potential threat to human health,
safety, welfare or to the environment, the town is authorized to use
public funds to assist property owners to fund improvements or upgrades
of such system. The use of this authority is subject to appropriation
of funds by a Town Meeting.
The Board of Health is hereby authorized to adopt regulations
and establish guidelines governing the Septic Betterment Program not
inconsistent with this chapter.
The Board of Selectmen shall bill the property owner on the
next real estate tax bill and may accept settlement in cash for the
full amount within thirty (30) days, or shall bill the property owner
for the total cost to be divided over a period of years, not to exceed
ten (10), with interest to be computed at the rate as set forth in
Chapter 80 of the Massachusetts General Laws, and the town shall have
a lien to secure payment in the same manner as it acquires a lien
for a betterment assessment under Chapter 80.