Information on the New Cyber Worm ConflickerPersonal computers and laptops already infected with Conficker could automatically be linked to the servers operated by the hackers.
By Mc Nelly Torres | South Florida Sun-sentinel
9:35 PM EDT, March 30, 2009
Cyber security experts are warning that a new variation of Conficker, a fast-spreading computer worm also known as Downadup, could attack millions of computers on Wednesday -- April Fool's Day.
Personal computers and laptops already infected with Conficker could automatically be linked to the servers operated by the hackers.
Esteban O. Farao, a consultant with Enterprise Risk Management, a Miami security consulting company, said the worm is not destroying files or stealing data, but it has the capability to do so.
"The main concern about this worm is that it is capable of downloading additional code from the hacker's Web site or through a peer-to-peer connection," Farao said. "Consequently it can bring more functionalities or receive instructions."
Experts say it's unknown whether the worm will cause havoc or merely turn out to be an April's Fool prank. But people can protect their computers by using security software.
Howard Schmidt, a former White House cyber security adviser, said computer users need to download an application of Microsoft software to detect and disable the worm. http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyId=AD724AE0-E72D-4F54-9AB3-75B8EB148356&displaylang=en
Experts also advise keeping your security applications and operating systems updated.
"The most interesting thing about this worm is that every time someone finds out a way to get rid of the worm, it reinvents itself with more rigor and better technology," Schmidt said.
Authorities have not identified the culprits behind the worm or their intentions. Microsoft has offered a $250,000 reward to bring the Conficker creator to justice.
The Conficker worm, which has infected 10 million computers outside the United States, is a program that exploits weaknesses in Microsoft's Windows operating system including Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows Server 2003 and Windows Server 2008.
The worm surfaced last November in computers on weak networks such as those in coffee shops, airport or offices. The second variation can spread via shared networks, including removable drives such as USB devices.
This worm also blocks infected systems from downloading new security software or receiving updates for security software. After attacking, it connects to a server where it receives instructions to propagate and gather personal information. Conficker creates a back door in the system where the worm can download and install additional programs.
Albert Whale, owner of ABS Computer Technology Inc., a Pittsburgh company that offers computer consulting services, said experts think the hackers are making money by getting information to send spam or attack people they don't like.
"Hackers spend 24 hours a day perfecting their craft," Whale said. "People don't even spend an hour a week securing their computers."
Staff researcher Barbara Hijek contributed to this report.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Friday, March 27, 2009
A letter on cost!!!!!
So many misleading pieces of information on cost prompted me to call for an estimate based on my home. I just received a call with the estimate.
Equipment/Labor depending on which brand I select $12,000 to $18,000
Servicing from $800 - $1200 per year
Removal of current septic if required $2000 - $3000
Additional expenses that may like be incurred
Mound (fill) to keep lines 2’ above wet season water table. (I assume this is a distinct possibility as we are in the Wekiva Study area which coincides with the flood plain map and wetlands)
With or without the mound I need 54” of sand is required under the system. Determined before installation and would require excavation and fill.
I do know I will have to then use 1one ply toilet paper, stay very health as antibiotics are treacherous to the delicate systems, plan my showering, dishwashing and laundry carefully, pray the electric does not go out and lightening does not strike my pump, etc. I do know I do not have St. Augustine grass, do not water 2 X a week, plant trees to maintain my mature tree canopy to reduce evaporation and increase the cleansing of the air and I do not fertilize. The subdivision across from my house on sewer does all of this. I venture to say my nitrogen input is no where near the input from their lots. I resent the fact that I will be hand picked and penalized as an environmental threat more so than another taxpayer across the street.
I have read the final 2007 study and the other documents. I find them inconclusive as to the impact of these systems. The factual information they do generate points a much larger finger at fertilizers input of nitrogen than septic systems. I guess if I sold these systems I might be a proponent…even with the unrealistic cost of $7700 x 57,000 it is close to ½ a billion dollars. And yea! I get to hold the whole bag.
Thank you,
Deborah Wetter
Equipment/Labor depending on which brand I select $12,000 to $18,000
Servicing from $800 - $1200 per year
Removal of current septic if required $2000 - $3000
Additional expenses that may like be incurred
Mound (fill) to keep lines 2’ above wet season water table. (I assume this is a distinct possibility as we are in the Wekiva Study area which coincides with the flood plain map and wetlands)
With or without the mound I need 54” of sand is required under the system. Determined before installation and would require excavation and fill.
I do know I will have to then use 1one ply toilet paper, stay very health as antibiotics are treacherous to the delicate systems, plan my showering, dishwashing and laundry carefully, pray the electric does not go out and lightening does not strike my pump, etc. I do know I do not have St. Augustine grass, do not water 2 X a week, plant trees to maintain my mature tree canopy to reduce evaporation and increase the cleansing of the air and I do not fertilize. The subdivision across from my house on sewer does all of this. I venture to say my nitrogen input is no where near the input from their lots. I resent the fact that I will be hand picked and penalized as an environmental threat more so than another taxpayer across the street.
I have read the final 2007 study and the other documents. I find them inconclusive as to the impact of these systems. The factual information they do generate points a much larger finger at fertilizers input of nitrogen than septic systems. I guess if I sold these systems I might be a proponent…even with the unrealistic cost of $7700 x 57,000 it is close to ½ a billion dollars. And yea! I get to hold the whole bag.
Thank you,
Deborah Wetter
Dear Friends and Neighbors,
Lots of support coming our way. Check out the OCINS web site below. Thanks to all of you who are writing to legislators, contributing to blogs, and in general putting muscle into this campaign to stop the DOH rule. Also, check out the attachment – a real world quotation on a PBTS system installation one of our neighbors obtained. Also includes a rebuttal from a septic system contractor. Slams DOH claims about the cost of installation. Deborah, you rock! Thanks Dominique!
Mike Thomas has received lots of feedback about his column, quite a bit of it from credible and authoritative sources that totally disagree with his “facts.” Don’t know if it will make a difference, but he is certainly aware there is another side different from that espoused by the Orlando Sentinel. Journalism rule 1, do not filter out opposing facts so your opinion is supported, or present personal conclusions as anything other than opinion.
John Byrd, Fred Brummer’s assistant continues to monitor the progress of the DOH activity on rule-making and is keeping everyone posted on this. I will pass information along as I get it.
Note to all – Outreach to other HOA’s. Jim Kohlmann (Bent Oak) has put some time into identifying the zip codes that are impacted. We have obtained from Orange County Neighborhood Services a listing of all HOA’s in the county. I need a couple of volunteers to meet with me and pull together a call list. Jim has volunteered to make the calls once we have identified the targets. Please e-mail me asap if you can help with this Saturday (after 2:00 p.m.), Sunday (after 2:00 p.m), or Monday (after 11:00 a.m.).
Information I received and passed to you about Lake County passing a resolution of protest needs correction – I found out yesterday the commissioners voted to TABLE the resolution. If any of you have contacts in Lake County, please reach out to them and urge them to contact those commissioners and ask them to pass the resolution of protest against implementing the DOH rule.
Please pass along to your e-mail circles. Andrea
Lots of support coming our way. Check out the OCINS web site below. Thanks to all of you who are writing to legislators, contributing to blogs, and in general putting muscle into this campaign to stop the DOH rule. Also, check out the attachment – a real world quotation on a PBTS system installation one of our neighbors obtained. Also includes a rebuttal from a septic system contractor. Slams DOH claims about the cost of installation. Deborah, you rock! Thanks Dominique!
Mike Thomas has received lots of feedback about his column, quite a bit of it from credible and authoritative sources that totally disagree with his “facts.” Don’t know if it will make a difference, but he is certainly aware there is another side different from that espoused by the Orlando Sentinel. Journalism rule 1, do not filter out opposing facts so your opinion is supported, or present personal conclusions as anything other than opinion.
John Byrd, Fred Brummer’s assistant continues to monitor the progress of the DOH activity on rule-making and is keeping everyone posted on this. I will pass information along as I get it.
Note to all – Outreach to other HOA’s. Jim Kohlmann (Bent Oak) has put some time into identifying the zip codes that are impacted. We have obtained from Orange County Neighborhood Services a listing of all HOA’s in the county. I need a couple of volunteers to meet with me and pull together a call list. Jim has volunteered to make the calls once we have identified the targets. Please e-mail me asap if you can help with this Saturday (after 2:00 p.m.), Sunday (after 2:00 p.m), or Monday (after 11:00 a.m.).
Information I received and passed to you about Lake County passing a resolution of protest needs correction – I found out yesterday the commissioners voted to TABLE the resolution. If any of you have contacts in Lake County, please reach out to them and urge them to contact those commissioners and ask them to pass the resolution of protest against implementing the DOH rule.
Please pass along to your e-mail circles. Andrea
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Septic Tank Letters
Two letters that are very interesting, thank you Andrea.... Dave
26 March 2009
Greetings:
In today’s Central Florida Daily Newspaper Mike Thomas has a “column” on the bottom of the front page with his opinion on the issue of potentially new onsite systems that may be required by the Florida Department of Health for the Wekiva Study Area.
In Mr. Thomas column he states, “So a $5,000 system could cost about $8,000.” Below is the Charlotte County Florida Department of Health Environmental Administrator’s stating, “These systems can cost from $15,000 to $30,000 Dollars.”
The studies have shown that onsite systems have a nitrate input of 6% to the Wekiva River & it’s Contributing Springs while Commercial & Residential Synthetic Fertilizer are 75% of the nitrate input to the Wekiva River & it’s Contributing Springs. This was reported to the Seminole County Board of County Commissioners by the Onsite Systems Bureau Chief for the State of Florida on 24 March 2009. It has been stated that if the same methodology was used for onsite systems that was used for other sources onsite systems would have a ZERO percent nitrate input.
Clearly the source that is the overwhelming cause of pollutant is synthetic fertilizer. Orange County will be addressing this issue with a fertilizer ordinance in the very near future.
Sincerely,
John Byrd, Aide,
Orange County Commissioner Frederick C. Brummer
Dear Ms. Erb,
Here in Charlotte County we have over 42,000 septic systems installed. This has been a nightmare, since some of the same concerns that pertain to Wekiva are present here. In 1993 due to pressure from the Department of Community Affairs, the County passed an ordinance requiring Aerobic Treatment Units for most plotted lots in the County.
That became the biggest nightmare, and an unjust burden on the homeowners. These systems can cost from $15,000 to $ 30,000 Dollars. Along with the higher price comes the mandatory permits and maintenance contracts that can cost up to $ 800.00 per year, not including repairs that are performed. If the systems are not maintained according to the manufacturers specifications, failures are very frequent.
Sincerely,
Herman Velasco
Environmental Health Administrator
Charlotte County Florida Department of Health
Phone: 941-743-1501
Fax: 941-743-1533
26 March 2009
Greetings:
In today’s Central Florida Daily Newspaper Mike Thomas has a “column” on the bottom of the front page with his opinion on the issue of potentially new onsite systems that may be required by the Florida Department of Health for the Wekiva Study Area.
In Mr. Thomas column he states, “So a $5,000 system could cost about $8,000.” Below is the Charlotte County Florida Department of Health Environmental Administrator’s stating, “These systems can cost from $15,000 to $30,000 Dollars.”
The studies have shown that onsite systems have a nitrate input of 6% to the Wekiva River & it’s Contributing Springs while Commercial & Residential Synthetic Fertilizer are 75% of the nitrate input to the Wekiva River & it’s Contributing Springs. This was reported to the Seminole County Board of County Commissioners by the Onsite Systems Bureau Chief for the State of Florida on 24 March 2009. It has been stated that if the same methodology was used for onsite systems that was used for other sources onsite systems would have a ZERO percent nitrate input.
Clearly the source that is the overwhelming cause of pollutant is synthetic fertilizer. Orange County will be addressing this issue with a fertilizer ordinance in the very near future.
Sincerely,
John Byrd, Aide,
Orange County Commissioner Frederick C. Brummer
Dear Ms. Erb,
Here in Charlotte County we have over 42,000 septic systems installed. This has been a nightmare, since some of the same concerns that pertain to Wekiva are present here. In 1993 due to pressure from the Department of Community Affairs, the County passed an ordinance requiring Aerobic Treatment Units for most plotted lots in the County.
That became the biggest nightmare, and an unjust burden on the homeowners. These systems can cost from $15,000 to $ 30,000 Dollars. Along with the higher price comes the mandatory permits and maintenance contracts that can cost up to $ 800.00 per year, not including repairs that are performed. If the systems are not maintained according to the manufacturers specifications, failures are very frequent.
Sincerely,
Herman Velasco
Environmental Health Administrator
Charlotte County Florida Department of Health
Phone: 941-743-1501
Fax: 941-743-1533
Mike Thomas Article
This is not good, we need everybodys help. You may have to sign up in the Topix section to leave a comment, its free. But please do vote on this. His article is missing a lot.Here is the web site for the article. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/columnists/orl-asecmiket26032609mar26,0,5315513.column
Today, Mike Thomas published an article in the Orlando Sentinel that hurts our cause. You can go to the on-line article under columnists and read what starts out to be a fairly rational explanation of the septic tank issue. It then dissolves into an irrational opinion that no matter what the cost, destroying Orange county residents and their home values is worth it. He even made a huge leap into the pit of unprofessional reporting saying the septic system contribution was equal to the fertilizer problem – He knows better, he published it anyway. He is apparently of the opinion that a bad solution is better than waiting for or working at finding good solution.
Go to http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/columnists/orl-mikethomas-septicpoll,0,3348741,post.poll and cast your vote. If we are as strong in numbers as I think we are, #4 – which is the only “no” option - will soar in numbers. As it is this a.m., 41% think it’s okay no matter what the human or economic toll (Question #1. Never mind the questions are all pretty skewed, just vote #4.
Please vote. We cannot let this stand without a challenge.
Today, Mike Thomas published an article in the Orlando Sentinel that hurts our cause. You can go to the on-line article under columnists and read what starts out to be a fairly rational explanation of the septic tank issue. It then dissolves into an irrational opinion that no matter what the cost, destroying Orange county residents and their home values is worth it. He even made a huge leap into the pit of unprofessional reporting saying the septic system contribution was equal to the fertilizer problem – He knows better, he published it anyway. He is apparently of the opinion that a bad solution is better than waiting for or working at finding good solution.
Go to http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/columnists/orl-mikethomas-septicpoll,0,3348741,post.poll and cast your vote. If we are as strong in numbers as I think we are, #4 – which is the only “no” option - will soar in numbers. As it is this a.m., 41% think it’s okay no matter what the human or economic toll (Question #1. Never mind the questions are all pretty skewed, just vote #4.
Please vote. We cannot let this stand without a challenge.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Seminole County Vote
This came out of the newspaper today..... Dave
Seminole wants to hold off on septic-tank decision in Wekiva area
March 25, 2009Seminole County commissioners passed a resolution Tuesday that asks state leaders to hold off on a proposal that eventually would require pricey new septic systems in the sensitive Wekiva River area. The state Health Department is working on a rule that would require more sophisticated septic tanks to reduce nitrogen loads. Opponents say the tanks are expensive and unproven.
RACHAEL JACKSON
Seminole wants to hold off on septic-tank decision in Wekiva area
March 25, 2009Seminole County commissioners passed a resolution Tuesday that asks state leaders to hold off on a proposal that eventually would require pricey new septic systems in the sensitive Wekiva River area. The state Health Department is working on a rule that would require more sophisticated septic tanks to reduce nitrogen loads. Opponents say the tanks are expensive and unproven.
RACHAEL JACKSON
UPDATE ON SEPTIC TANKS
We cannot let our guard down, keep up the good work, this is from Andrea..... Dave
Dear neighbors.
Good news today! The Lake County Commissioners and the Seminole County Commissioners both voted to pass resolutions of protest against the DOH proposed rule. Other endorsements of our position are in the works and hopefully those will come through as well. I’ll let you know. But this combined with the Orange County Commissioners’ Resolution is an enormous endorsement of our position.
It’s time to fuel the fire a little. I am asking you to begin a second round of e-mails to the usual list of legislators and to Governor Crist. Go ahead and copy the Department of Health as well, so they get it from you and from Governor Crist. I would like to suggest that your second round of e-mails be in the form of questions that require answers. Such as:
1)When power conservation is the hot topic and citizens are facing a 25-30% increase in their power bills from Progress Energy, why is the Department of Health asking us to increase our power usage by 50% to run a PBTS system?
2) What possible benefit is it to the Wekiva River to reduce nitrogen from septic systems when as a result of installing a PBTS , Progress Energy will dump more nitrogen into the air by a factor of 3-5 times producing the energy needed to run these systems, than we generate with our conventional septic systems?
3) Why have you not tested, examined and documented the effectiveness of alternative methods of reducing nitrogen in conventional septic systems?
4) Why will you not consider setting standards for septic system inspection and mandatory pumping frequency, and see if proper maintenance of a standard system might produce desirable nitrogen reduction results without the economic impact of PBTS?
5) Where are the field tests that prove the use of PBTS will absolutely achieve the results you want in the WSA area? Are you asking us to spend this money without that assurance?
6) Why is the Department of Health willing to further devastate the economic condition and normal family functioning of so many families. Is the Dept. of Health going to contact our family members and explain why Thanksgiving dinner will not be at our house, because the PBTS cannot accommodate a sudden increase of input?
7) Can we voluntarily reduce our fertilizer usage by one bag, thereby achieving the same percentage of nitrogen reduction as the PBTS will achieve?
8) Is the Department of Health of the opinion that the scarce resources of Florida’s citizens are better directed at 6% nitrogen reduction than adequately funding our children’s education?
Just some suggestions….Copy them, change them….feel free to add your own, and send letters out as soon as you can.
Thanks!
Andrea
E-mail: Charlie.Crist@eog.MyFlorida.com.
Copy to: Bryan.Nelson@myfloridahouse.gov;
Jeff.Cottkamp@MyFlorida.com; Gardiner.andy.web@flsenate.gov;
Fred Brummer: District2@ocfl.net;
State Surgeon General, Ana Viamonte Ros - Secretary@DOH.State.
Dear neighbors.
Good news today! The Lake County Commissioners and the Seminole County Commissioners both voted to pass resolutions of protest against the DOH proposed rule. Other endorsements of our position are in the works and hopefully those will come through as well. I’ll let you know. But this combined with the Orange County Commissioners’ Resolution is an enormous endorsement of our position.
It’s time to fuel the fire a little. I am asking you to begin a second round of e-mails to the usual list of legislators and to Governor Crist. Go ahead and copy the Department of Health as well, so they get it from you and from Governor Crist. I would like to suggest that your second round of e-mails be in the form of questions that require answers. Such as:
1)When power conservation is the hot topic and citizens are facing a 25-30% increase in their power bills from Progress Energy, why is the Department of Health asking us to increase our power usage by 50% to run a PBTS system?
2) What possible benefit is it to the Wekiva River to reduce nitrogen from septic systems when as a result of installing a PBTS , Progress Energy will dump more nitrogen into the air by a factor of 3-5 times producing the energy needed to run these systems, than we generate with our conventional septic systems?
3) Why have you not tested, examined and documented the effectiveness of alternative methods of reducing nitrogen in conventional septic systems?
4) Why will you not consider setting standards for septic system inspection and mandatory pumping frequency, and see if proper maintenance of a standard system might produce desirable nitrogen reduction results without the economic impact of PBTS?
5) Where are the field tests that prove the use of PBTS will absolutely achieve the results you want in the WSA area? Are you asking us to spend this money without that assurance?
6) Why is the Department of Health willing to further devastate the economic condition and normal family functioning of so many families. Is the Dept. of Health going to contact our family members and explain why Thanksgiving dinner will not be at our house, because the PBTS cannot accommodate a sudden increase of input?
7) Can we voluntarily reduce our fertilizer usage by one bag, thereby achieving the same percentage of nitrogen reduction as the PBTS will achieve?
8) Is the Department of Health of the opinion that the scarce resources of Florida’s citizens are better directed at 6% nitrogen reduction than adequately funding our children’s education?
Just some suggestions….Copy them, change them….feel free to add your own, and send letters out as soon as you can.
Thanks!
Andrea
E-mail: Charlie.Crist@eog.MyFlorida.com.
Copy to: Bryan.Nelson@myfloridahouse.gov;
Jeff.Cottkamp@MyFlorida.com; Gardiner.andy.web@flsenate.gov;
Fred Brummer: District2@ocfl.net;
State Surgeon General, Ana Viamonte Ros - Secretary@DOH.State.
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
"Warnings" on the new septic tank system
This is interesting, some of you on Monday evening had a power failue and it was out for about an hour. Well guess what, we would not have had a septic tank!!!!!!
We have been telling you a lot about the cost of a PBTS system that the Department of Health is about to mandate for all homeowners with septic systems in the Wekiva Study Area. That $10K-20K cost per homeowner is enough to bring more than half the population impacted by this to their collective economic knees. But, there is more. The following information is taken directly from the “homeowner’s manual” available on the Hoot Systems website(Google Hoot Systems). Hoot is an DOH approved provider for the PBTS systems that are part of the DOH rule. Is the DOH supposed to endanger us and subject the citizens of Florida to health hazards as serious as infection and death? Is realistic to expect the average Florida citizen to deal with this? The industry experts have said this type of system is not suitable for residential use. This tells you in no uncertain terms why. Will Hoot Systems or the State of Florida, or the DOH be legally responsible for the injury, illness, and deaths of citizens who are unable to follow the instruction manual to the letter, or who will be unable to afford the required maintenance?
The HOOT Aerobic Treatment System
Declaration of Warnings
WARNING! TO PREVENT MALFUNCTION OF YOUR SEWAGE SYSTEM, DO NOT DISCHARGE THE FOLLOWING MATERIALS INTO THE SYSTEM: Plastic Materials ! Cloth ! Cigarette Stubs ! Paper towels ! Large quantities of acids or caustics, soaps or cleaning materials which have a high or low pH factor (Use low suds detergents) ! Throw-away Diapers ! Rubber products ! Kleenex, some toilet tissues which do not decompose readily in water ! Rainwater from Gutters ! Excess grease or fatty materials (Use garbage disposal sparingly) ! Oily materials, motor oils, grease, kerosene, gasoline, Paints, etc. !Backwash water from any type of Water Softner ! Other materials which do not disintegrate in water !A/C Discharge ! Sump pump discharge ! Automatic Toilet Disinfection Products
WARNING! TO FUNCTION PROPERLY, THE HOOT SYSTEM MUST BE MAINTAINED BY A QUALIFIED PROFESSIONAL AT LEAST EVERY SIX (6) MONTHS FOR THE LIFE OF THE SYSTEM. FAILURE TO MAINTAIN THE HOOT SYSTEM VOIDS THE LIMITED WARRANTY AND MAY CAUSE SERIOUS BODILY INJURY OR ILLNESS TO PEOPLE AND PETS AND MAY CAUSE SERIOUS DAMAGE TO THE HOOT SYSTEM OR OTHER PROPERTY.
DANGER! ONLY A QUALIFIED PROFESSIONAL SHOULD ATTEMPT TO REPAIR OR FIX THE HOOT SYSTEM. ATTEMPTED REPAIR BY ANYONE OTHER THAN A QUALIFIED PROFESSIONAL MAY CAUSE SERIOUS BODILY INJURY OR DEATH TO THE HOMEOWNER OR OTHER PERSONS AND MAY CAUSE SERIOUS DAMAGE TO THE HOOT SYSTEM AND OTHER PROPERTY.
DANGER! DO NOT DISCONNECT THE POWER TO THE HOOT SYSTEM. DISCONNECTION OF THE POWER FROM THE SYSTEM MAY CAUSE SERIOUS ILLNESS OR DEATH TO THE HOMEOWNER AND OTHER PERSONS AND MAY CAUSE SERIOUS DAMAGE TO THE HOOT SYSTEM AND OTHER PROPERTY.
WARNING! IN CASE OF IMMINENT FLOOD, IMMEDIATELY TURN OFF THE ELECTRICAL POWER TO THE HOOT SYSTEM AT THE INDEPENDENT BREAKER LOCATED ON THE HOUSE. FAILURE TO TURN OFF THE ELECTRICAL POWER MAY CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH TO THE HOMEOWNER AND OTHER PERSONS AND MAY CAUSE SERIOUS DAMAGE TO THE HOOT SYSTEM AND OTHER PROPERTY.
WARNING! IF THE UNIT FAILS TO FUNCTION PROPERLY, DO NOT USE THE BATHROOM FACILITIES UNTIL QUALIFIED PERSONNEL FIX THE PROBLEM. USE OF THE BATHROOM FACILITIES DURING A SYSTEM FAILURE MAY CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY, ILLNESS, OR DEATH TO PERSONS AND MAY CAUSE SERIOUS DAMAGE TO THE HOOT SYSTEM AND OTHER PROPERTY.
WARNING! DO NOT ALLOW CHILDREN TO PLAY ON OR AROUND THE AEROBIC TREATMENT SYSTEM, THE SPRINKLER SYSTEM, OR OTHER OVER-LAND DISCHARGE AREA. ALLOWING CHILDREN TO PLAY IN THESE AREAS MAY CAUSE SERIOUS BODILY INJURY, ILLNESS, OR DEATH TO THE CHILDREN AND OTHER PERSONS AND MAY CAUSE DAMAGE TO THE HOOT SYSTEM AND OTHER PROPERTY.
DANGER! DO NOT OPEN CONTROL PANEL WITHOUT ELECTRICITY DISCONTENTED AND LOCKED OUT ON THE SYSTEM. FAILURE TO DO SO COULD CAUSE SEVERE INJURY OR DEATH
We have been telling you a lot about the cost of a PBTS system that the Department of Health is about to mandate for all homeowners with septic systems in the Wekiva Study Area. That $10K-20K cost per homeowner is enough to bring more than half the population impacted by this to their collective economic knees. But, there is more. The following information is taken directly from the “homeowner’s manual” available on the Hoot Systems website(Google Hoot Systems). Hoot is an DOH approved provider for the PBTS systems that are part of the DOH rule. Is the DOH supposed to endanger us and subject the citizens of Florida to health hazards as serious as infection and death? Is realistic to expect the average Florida citizen to deal with this? The industry experts have said this type of system is not suitable for residential use. This tells you in no uncertain terms why. Will Hoot Systems or the State of Florida, or the DOH be legally responsible for the injury, illness, and deaths of citizens who are unable to follow the instruction manual to the letter, or who will be unable to afford the required maintenance?
The HOOT Aerobic Treatment System
Declaration of Warnings
WARNING! TO PREVENT MALFUNCTION OF YOUR SEWAGE SYSTEM, DO NOT DISCHARGE THE FOLLOWING MATERIALS INTO THE SYSTEM: Plastic Materials ! Cloth ! Cigarette Stubs ! Paper towels ! Large quantities of acids or caustics, soaps or cleaning materials which have a high or low pH factor (Use low suds detergents) ! Throw-away Diapers ! Rubber products ! Kleenex, some toilet tissues which do not decompose readily in water ! Rainwater from Gutters ! Excess grease or fatty materials (Use garbage disposal sparingly) ! Oily materials, motor oils, grease, kerosene, gasoline, Paints, etc. !Backwash water from any type of Water Softner ! Other materials which do not disintegrate in water !A/C Discharge ! Sump pump discharge ! Automatic Toilet Disinfection Products
WARNING! TO FUNCTION PROPERLY, THE HOOT SYSTEM MUST BE MAINTAINED BY A QUALIFIED PROFESSIONAL AT LEAST EVERY SIX (6) MONTHS FOR THE LIFE OF THE SYSTEM. FAILURE TO MAINTAIN THE HOOT SYSTEM VOIDS THE LIMITED WARRANTY AND MAY CAUSE SERIOUS BODILY INJURY OR ILLNESS TO PEOPLE AND PETS AND MAY CAUSE SERIOUS DAMAGE TO THE HOOT SYSTEM OR OTHER PROPERTY.
DANGER! ONLY A QUALIFIED PROFESSIONAL SHOULD ATTEMPT TO REPAIR OR FIX THE HOOT SYSTEM. ATTEMPTED REPAIR BY ANYONE OTHER THAN A QUALIFIED PROFESSIONAL MAY CAUSE SERIOUS BODILY INJURY OR DEATH TO THE HOMEOWNER OR OTHER PERSONS AND MAY CAUSE SERIOUS DAMAGE TO THE HOOT SYSTEM AND OTHER PROPERTY.
DANGER! DO NOT DISCONNECT THE POWER TO THE HOOT SYSTEM. DISCONNECTION OF THE POWER FROM THE SYSTEM MAY CAUSE SERIOUS ILLNESS OR DEATH TO THE HOMEOWNER AND OTHER PERSONS AND MAY CAUSE SERIOUS DAMAGE TO THE HOOT SYSTEM AND OTHER PROPERTY.
WARNING! IN CASE OF IMMINENT FLOOD, IMMEDIATELY TURN OFF THE ELECTRICAL POWER TO THE HOOT SYSTEM AT THE INDEPENDENT BREAKER LOCATED ON THE HOUSE. FAILURE TO TURN OFF THE ELECTRICAL POWER MAY CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH TO THE HOMEOWNER AND OTHER PERSONS AND MAY CAUSE SERIOUS DAMAGE TO THE HOOT SYSTEM AND OTHER PROPERTY.
WARNING! IF THE UNIT FAILS TO FUNCTION PROPERLY, DO NOT USE THE BATHROOM FACILITIES UNTIL QUALIFIED PERSONNEL FIX THE PROBLEM. USE OF THE BATHROOM FACILITIES DURING A SYSTEM FAILURE MAY CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY, ILLNESS, OR DEATH TO PERSONS AND MAY CAUSE SERIOUS DAMAGE TO THE HOOT SYSTEM AND OTHER PROPERTY.
WARNING! DO NOT ALLOW CHILDREN TO PLAY ON OR AROUND THE AEROBIC TREATMENT SYSTEM, THE SPRINKLER SYSTEM, OR OTHER OVER-LAND DISCHARGE AREA. ALLOWING CHILDREN TO PLAY IN THESE AREAS MAY CAUSE SERIOUS BODILY INJURY, ILLNESS, OR DEATH TO THE CHILDREN AND OTHER PERSONS AND MAY CAUSE DAMAGE TO THE HOOT SYSTEM AND OTHER PROPERTY.
DANGER! DO NOT OPEN CONTROL PANEL WITHOUT ELECTRICITY DISCONTENTED AND LOCKED OUT ON THE SYSTEM. FAILURE TO DO SO COULD CAUSE SEVERE INJURY OR DEATH
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Septic Tanks
Feel free to use this letter. E-mail Andy Gardiner today, please. Copy the document and paste it into your own e-mail using your own name.
Many thanks! Andrea
Attached is an email I sent to District 9 Sen. Andy Gardiner, asking him to amend the Wekiva Parkway and Protection Act to eliminate the need to change Wekiva area septic tanks to the proposed wastewater treatment systems about which I have sent information to you. If you like, you may use any part(s) or all of it to email the 3 addresses listed below.
Everyone needs to email Sen. Gardiner with the same request regarding an amendment. (The Act itself will not be struck down, but the wording regarding these treatment systems can be changed.) Even if you have already emailed Gov. Crist, please do so again. And you should also email the Florida Dept. of Health.
It now appears that we have only until April 1 to stop this ridiculous rule from being enforced.
gardiner.andy.web@flsenate.gov
charlie.crist@eog.myflorida.com
environmentalhealthonsitesewageprogram@doh.st.fl.us
The Seminole County Commission will address this issue in downtown Sanford on Tuesday morning, at 9:30 a.m. Lake County citizens are holding meetings to determine how to fight it. In Tallahassee last night, the Leon County Commission voted to table their resolution supporting the new systems, because so many angry homeowners showed up at the meeting, along with representatives from the Home Builders Assoc., which opposes the change.
Derry Sampey, Member
Deer Lake Run HOA BOD
Dear Senator Gardiner:
If the Wekiva Parkway and Protection Act becomes law in its current form, those of us living in the affected areas will be forced to install an electrically operated septic system based on totally unproven technology. It is our understanding that installation cost is estimated to be $10,000 to $20,000 per home, annual maintenance is projected at $1,200 to $2,500 per year, and additional operating costs will add approximately $50 per month to our electric bills.
If we try to sell, refinance or make any improvement to our homes (including adding a utility shed in the back yard), we will be forced to install the new system, even if our current one is fully operational. And the chances of ever finding buyers for our homes who are willing to pay for and live with this system will likely be zero, resulting in the devaluation of our homes and a sharp drop in the tax base of the cities and counties in which our homes are located.
When our power goes out or a brownout occurs, both of which occur frequently in Florida, we will have no bathroom facilities and raw sewage will back up into our homes. Even after power is restored, these systems will have to be individually restarted by the installer, which could take weeks to complete. Talk about a serious health problem!
Finally, the Wekiva Parkway and Protection Act itself lays 71% of the blame for the Wekiva area's problems squarely upon the use of nitrogen fertilizers, and 6% of the blame on septic tanks currently in the area. So, why are some homeowners (and not golf courses, resorts, tourist attractions, et al) going to be forced to pay the price for a so-called solution that will, at best, merely scratch the surface of the problem?
It is imperative that the Department of Health be prevented from allowing this travesty to continue. Please know that large numbers of your constituents want to see this Act amended and are ready to do whatever it takes to support you in your efforts.
Thank you.
Many thanks! Andrea
Attached is an email I sent to District 9 Sen. Andy Gardiner, asking him to amend the Wekiva Parkway and Protection Act to eliminate the need to change Wekiva area septic tanks to the proposed wastewater treatment systems about which I have sent information to you. If you like, you may use any part(s) or all of it to email the 3 addresses listed below.
Everyone needs to email Sen. Gardiner with the same request regarding an amendment. (The Act itself will not be struck down, but the wording regarding these treatment systems can be changed.) Even if you have already emailed Gov. Crist, please do so again. And you should also email the Florida Dept. of Health.
It now appears that we have only until April 1 to stop this ridiculous rule from being enforced.
gardiner.andy.web@flsenate.gov
charlie.crist@eog.myflorida.com
environmentalhealthonsitesewageprogram@doh.st.fl.us
The Seminole County Commission will address this issue in downtown Sanford on Tuesday morning, at 9:30 a.m. Lake County citizens are holding meetings to determine how to fight it. In Tallahassee last night, the Leon County Commission voted to table their resolution supporting the new systems, because so many angry homeowners showed up at the meeting, along with representatives from the Home Builders Assoc., which opposes the change.
Derry Sampey, Member
Deer Lake Run HOA BOD
Dear Senator Gardiner:
If the Wekiva Parkway and Protection Act becomes law in its current form, those of us living in the affected areas will be forced to install an electrically operated septic system based on totally unproven technology. It is our understanding that installation cost is estimated to be $10,000 to $20,000 per home, annual maintenance is projected at $1,200 to $2,500 per year, and additional operating costs will add approximately $50 per month to our electric bills.
If we try to sell, refinance or make any improvement to our homes (including adding a utility shed in the back yard), we will be forced to install the new system, even if our current one is fully operational. And the chances of ever finding buyers for our homes who are willing to pay for and live with this system will likely be zero, resulting in the devaluation of our homes and a sharp drop in the tax base of the cities and counties in which our homes are located.
When our power goes out or a brownout occurs, both of which occur frequently in Florida, we will have no bathroom facilities and raw sewage will back up into our homes. Even after power is restored, these systems will have to be individually restarted by the installer, which could take weeks to complete. Talk about a serious health problem!
Finally, the Wekiva Parkway and Protection Act itself lays 71% of the blame for the Wekiva area's problems squarely upon the use of nitrogen fertilizers, and 6% of the blame on septic tanks currently in the area. So, why are some homeowners (and not golf courses, resorts, tourist attractions, et al) going to be forced to pay the price for a so-called solution that will, at best, merely scratch the surface of the problem?
It is imperative that the Department of Health be prevented from allowing this travesty to continue. Please know that large numbers of your constituents want to see this Act amended and are ready to do whatever it takes to support you in your efforts.
Thank you.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
New Info On The Septic Tanks
I got this from Andrea, Thank you Andrea on keeping us posted.... Dave
Just in case you thought it was over, it’s not. Please read the entire thread of e-mails. Cursor down to the bottom of this message which is the beginning of the thread. John Byrd’s response to Mr. Higgins which shows here is the last message. (Start at the bottom)
Andrea
From: Byrd, John
Sent: Wednesday, March 11, 2009 8:08 AM
To: 'John J Higgins'; bkcarey@cfl.rr.com; scott@scottplakon.com
Cc: jackhannahs@bellsouth.net; 'Quentin (Bob) Beitel'; fredbrummer@embarqmail.com; Boyd, S. Scott (Commissioner); 'Keith Hetrick'
Subject: RE: Proposed New Septic Rules
Mr. Higgins:
Thanks for sending. It is hard to even respond to the comments below from Mr. Briggs they are so incredibly skewed. The 2007 report Mr. Briggs refers to below found onsite systems contributed 6% of the nitrate inputs to the Wekiva River & it’s Contributing Springs while Commercial & Residential Fertilizer was 75% of the inputs. The loading numbers for onsite systems went from a 6% input to a 22% loading which became and still is point of great debate.
I don’t know if you remember this but back in the day a consultant said at a RRAC meeting that if the same methodology had been used for onsite systems that was used for other sources the nitrate input from onsite systems would be ZERO percent. Of course later that consultant vociferously denied making that statement.
The RRAC membership would not agree that onsite systems were a “significant contributor” of nitrogen to the Wekiva River & it’s Contributing Springs because the RRAC membership did not agree with the methodology used to obtain the 22% loading number.
This was in the original “draft” executive summary of the 2007 report. It was later deleted by FDOH in order for the 2007 report to fit FDOH’s conclusions.
I would also add that by the time a “public hearing” is held in May the rule will already be in effect making that a moot public hearing. Once they file the notice for Rule Adoption in April there is 21 days to act before the rule becomes final.
Sincerely,
John Byrd
From: John J Higgins [mailto:jhiggins1@cfl.rr.com]
Sent: Tuesday, March 10, 2009 4:11 PM
To: Byrd, John; bkcarey@cfl.rr.com; scott@scottplakon.com
Cc: jackhannahs@bellsouth.net; 'Quentin (Bob) Beitel'
Subject: FW: Proposed New Septic Rules
For your information.
John Higgins
From: Gerald_Briggs@doh.state.fl.us [mailto:Gerald_Briggs@doh.state.fl.us]
Sent: Tuesday, March 10, 2009 1:43 PM
To: jhiggins1@cfl.rr.com
Cc: jackhannahs@bellsouth.net; k.r.jones@earthlink.net
Subject: RE: Proposed New Septic Rules
Mr. Higgins:
As has been stated numerous times publicly and in our Wekiva research reports, the department has a legislative mandate to impose nitrogen reduction standards on onsite system within the Wekiva Study Area. Our 2005 report documented the potential nitrogen impact of onsite systems in the WSA and recommended moving to performance based treatment systems. Our 2007 report confirmed those results. At no time has the Legislature acted to change the mandate in the 2004 Wekiva Parkway and Protection Act. As such, our executive staff has made the decision that we should move forward with rule making. Your comments on the draft rule are welcome at any point in the process. We still, at this time, intend to file a notice of rulemaking in the April timeframe with a public hearing or hearings in the Wekiva area in May.
Gerald R. Briggs, Chief
Bureau of Onsite Sewage Programs
Florida Department of Health
Environmental Health is Core Public Health at your service!
Please tell us how we are doing http://www.doh.state.fl.us/environment/ostds/survey.htm
Please note: Florida has a very broad public records law. Most written communications to or from state officials regarding state business are public records available to the public and media upon request. Therefore, your e-mail communications may be subject to public disclosure.
Please consider our environment before printing this e-mail.
From: John J Higgins [mailto:jhiggins1@cfl.rr.com]
Sent: Tuesday, March 10, 2009 1:14 PM
To: Briggs, Gerald R
Cc: jackhannahs@bellsouth.net; 'Kenny R. Jones'
Subject: Proposed New Septic Rules
Mr. Briggs:
As you know the Markham Woods Association believes the DOH’s new proposed rules regarding onsite septic systems appear unfair and unwarranted. Your decision to move forward now despite advice from TRAP to the contrary is disheartening to us. Also, Sen. Lee Constantine assured those attending the last Wekiva Parkway and Protection Commission meeting that no new rules would move forward at least until the next of their meetings.
As part of the public whom you serve, we would very much appreciate a logical explanation of your current actions besides your agency being the only Department that still has not met your perceived obligation under the Wekiva Act. The Act clearly says you need only institute new rules “if appropriate.” You, the DEP, the Audubon Society, and the advanced systems manufacturers appear to be the only groups believing your proposed rules are appropriate. Is there some other explanation with which we can work with you on this important question? We would like to do that if possible.
If you do form a Rule Development Workshop on these new rules, please consider appointing myself or one of my associates a member of it. I am a retired SunTrust executive and have time to devote to this effort. We believe whatever actions are finally taken on this question are extremely important to us and the 2,800 residents we represent. Currently we are at a loss to explain any reasonable logic for these new rules. We would like very much to be able to understand your position better.
In any event, please inform us in detail of the procedures available to us as part of your civil process. Thank you, sir.
Regards,
John J. Higgins
Just in case you thought it was over, it’s not. Please read the entire thread of e-mails. Cursor down to the bottom of this message which is the beginning of the thread. John Byrd’s response to Mr. Higgins which shows here is the last message. (Start at the bottom)
Andrea
From: Byrd, John
Sent: Wednesday, March 11, 2009 8:08 AM
To: 'John J Higgins'; bkcarey@cfl.rr.com; scott@scottplakon.com
Cc: jackhannahs@bellsouth.net; 'Quentin (Bob) Beitel'; fredbrummer@embarqmail.com; Boyd, S. Scott (Commissioner); 'Keith Hetrick'
Subject: RE: Proposed New Septic Rules
Mr. Higgins:
Thanks for sending. It is hard to even respond to the comments below from Mr. Briggs they are so incredibly skewed. The 2007 report Mr. Briggs refers to below found onsite systems contributed 6% of the nitrate inputs to the Wekiva River & it’s Contributing Springs while Commercial & Residential Fertilizer was 75% of the inputs. The loading numbers for onsite systems went from a 6% input to a 22% loading which became and still is point of great debate.
I don’t know if you remember this but back in the day a consultant said at a RRAC meeting that if the same methodology had been used for onsite systems that was used for other sources the nitrate input from onsite systems would be ZERO percent. Of course later that consultant vociferously denied making that statement.
The RRAC membership would not agree that onsite systems were a “significant contributor” of nitrogen to the Wekiva River & it’s Contributing Springs because the RRAC membership did not agree with the methodology used to obtain the 22% loading number.
This was in the original “draft” executive summary of the 2007 report. It was later deleted by FDOH in order for the 2007 report to fit FDOH’s conclusions.
I would also add that by the time a “public hearing” is held in May the rule will already be in effect making that a moot public hearing. Once they file the notice for Rule Adoption in April there is 21 days to act before the rule becomes final.
Sincerely,
John Byrd
From: John J Higgins [mailto:jhiggins1@cfl.rr.com]
Sent: Tuesday, March 10, 2009 4:11 PM
To: Byrd, John; bkcarey@cfl.rr.com; scott@scottplakon.com
Cc: jackhannahs@bellsouth.net; 'Quentin (Bob) Beitel'
Subject: FW: Proposed New Septic Rules
For your information.
John Higgins
From: Gerald_Briggs@doh.state.fl.us [mailto:Gerald_Briggs@doh.state.fl.us]
Sent: Tuesday, March 10, 2009 1:43 PM
To: jhiggins1@cfl.rr.com
Cc: jackhannahs@bellsouth.net; k.r.jones@earthlink.net
Subject: RE: Proposed New Septic Rules
Mr. Higgins:
As has been stated numerous times publicly and in our Wekiva research reports, the department has a legislative mandate to impose nitrogen reduction standards on onsite system within the Wekiva Study Area. Our 2005 report documented the potential nitrogen impact of onsite systems in the WSA and recommended moving to performance based treatment systems. Our 2007 report confirmed those results. At no time has the Legislature acted to change the mandate in the 2004 Wekiva Parkway and Protection Act. As such, our executive staff has made the decision that we should move forward with rule making. Your comments on the draft rule are welcome at any point in the process. We still, at this time, intend to file a notice of rulemaking in the April timeframe with a public hearing or hearings in the Wekiva area in May.
Gerald R. Briggs, Chief
Bureau of Onsite Sewage Programs
Florida Department of Health
Environmental Health is Core Public Health at your service!
Please tell us how we are doing http://www.doh.state.fl.us/environment/ostds/survey.htm
Please note: Florida has a very broad public records law. Most written communications to or from state officials regarding state business are public records available to the public and media upon request. Therefore, your e-mail communications may be subject to public disclosure.
Please consider our environment before printing this e-mail.
From: John J Higgins [mailto:jhiggins1@cfl.rr.com]
Sent: Tuesday, March 10, 2009 1:14 PM
To: Briggs, Gerald R
Cc: jackhannahs@bellsouth.net; 'Kenny R. Jones'
Subject: Proposed New Septic Rules
Mr. Briggs:
As you know the Markham Woods Association believes the DOH’s new proposed rules regarding onsite septic systems appear unfair and unwarranted. Your decision to move forward now despite advice from TRAP to the contrary is disheartening to us. Also, Sen. Lee Constantine assured those attending the last Wekiva Parkway and Protection Commission meeting that no new rules would move forward at least until the next of their meetings.
As part of the public whom you serve, we would very much appreciate a logical explanation of your current actions besides your agency being the only Department that still has not met your perceived obligation under the Wekiva Act. The Act clearly says you need only institute new rules “if appropriate.” You, the DEP, the Audubon Society, and the advanced systems manufacturers appear to be the only groups believing your proposed rules are appropriate. Is there some other explanation with which we can work with you on this important question? We would like to do that if possible.
If you do form a Rule Development Workshop on these new rules, please consider appointing myself or one of my associates a member of it. I am a retired SunTrust executive and have time to devote to this effort. We believe whatever actions are finally taken on this question are extremely important to us and the 2,800 residents we represent. Currently we are at a loss to explain any reasonable logic for these new rules. We would like very much to be able to understand your position better.
In any event, please inform us in detail of the procedures available to us as part of your civil process. Thank you, sir.
Regards,
John J. Higgins
Friday, March 13, 2009
Septic Tanks
I just got this from Andrea, the time is running out..... Dave
This is the kind of information we are getting as a result of our meeting Tuesday. This is an immediate mess for the entire state. I have a petition form available for our neighborhood. Can some of you volunteer to take a street and get these signed this weekend. I would like to take signed petitions to the County Commission meeting on Tuesday. Ultimate destination for the originals is Crist’s desk. Thanks to Jim Kohlman and Bill Thompson who have agreed to attend that meeting with me. If there are others who will be going, e-mail me and we will get car pools going. Call me at 407.886.1011 and let me know if you can help with the petitions. Every voter in the home should sign.
Andrea
This is the kind of information we are getting as a result of our meeting Tuesday. This is an immediate mess for the entire state. I have a petition form available for our neighborhood. Can some of you volunteer to take a street and get these signed this weekend. I would like to take signed petitions to the County Commission meeting on Tuesday. Ultimate destination for the originals is Crist’s desk. Thanks to Jim Kohlman and Bill Thompson who have agreed to attend that meeting with me. If there are others who will be going, e-mail me and we will get car pools going. Call me at 407.886.1011 and let me know if you can help with the petitions. Every voter in the home should sign.
Andrea
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Please Read on Septic Tanks
Hi Everybody, this is very important, please read, thank you, Dave
Dear Neighbors,
As I promised, I am sending to you the list of legislative contacts. In addition, you will find a map of the entire Wekiva Study Area impacted by the Department of Health proposed rule to force replacements of passive systems such as we have with “performance-based systems.” I have also included a copy of the flyer that was delivered to your home about two weeks ago. Feel free to reproduce it and pass it to others you may know outside the Bent Oak subdivision that may be impacted by this DOH action.
We only have about two to three weeks to stop this rule before it crashes down on us, so please use this information to quickly send off your letters, make your phone calls, etc. Be aware, that most of the e-mails sent to Gov. Crist are being forwarded to the Department of Health for a response (very insulting!). However, send them anyhow! Numbers matter. Call if you can. Make sure you contact all the legislators listed and the Surgeon General.
If you have friends in other subdivisions, please contact them and ask for the name of the President of their associations so we can contact them and increase our representation and influence. Pass along any contact information to me and I will make sure they get plugged in.
We will be working with the Orlando Area Realtors Association, the Markham Woods Homeowners Assoc., Coalition for Property Rights, and several other civic, homeowner, and professional assoc. opposed to this rule. On Tuesday, I will be attending the Orange County Commission Meeting (1:30 p.m. County Commission Chambers, Orange Ave.) and providing testimonial input about the serious economic and quality of life ramifications of this rule to the Bent Oak homeowners. You are welcome to attend. Fred Brummer is proposing the Orange County Government send a letter of concern and protest to the Gov. The citizen input is to move them to do so. If you need more information on this, let me know.
One of our neighbor’s has described this rule’s impact as an “economic black hole.” And, that it is.
I have much more information that has been forwarded to me. I am going to try to get a summary statement together and will get it to you asap.
Thank you all for your involvement! Remember, if there are two or more voters in your home, get e-mails out from each one. Every voice counts and the more the better!
Andrea
407.886.1011
Dear Neighbors,
As I promised, I am sending to you the list of legislative contacts. In addition, you will find a map of the entire Wekiva Study Area impacted by the Department of Health proposed rule to force replacements of passive systems such as we have with “performance-based systems.” I have also included a copy of the flyer that was delivered to your home about two weeks ago. Feel free to reproduce it and pass it to others you may know outside the Bent Oak subdivision that may be impacted by this DOH action.
We only have about two to three weeks to stop this rule before it crashes down on us, so please use this information to quickly send off your letters, make your phone calls, etc. Be aware, that most of the e-mails sent to Gov. Crist are being forwarded to the Department of Health for a response (very insulting!). However, send them anyhow! Numbers matter. Call if you can. Make sure you contact all the legislators listed and the Surgeon General.
If you have friends in other subdivisions, please contact them and ask for the name of the President of their associations so we can contact them and increase our representation and influence. Pass along any contact information to me and I will make sure they get plugged in.
We will be working with the Orlando Area Realtors Association, the Markham Woods Homeowners Assoc., Coalition for Property Rights, and several other civic, homeowner, and professional assoc. opposed to this rule. On Tuesday, I will be attending the Orange County Commission Meeting (1:30 p.m. County Commission Chambers, Orange Ave.) and providing testimonial input about the serious economic and quality of life ramifications of this rule to the Bent Oak homeowners. You are welcome to attend. Fred Brummer is proposing the Orange County Government send a letter of concern and protest to the Gov. The citizen input is to move them to do so. If you need more information on this, let me know.
One of our neighbor’s has described this rule’s impact as an “economic black hole.” And, that it is.
I have much more information that has been forwarded to me. I am going to try to get a summary statement together and will get it to you asap.
Thank you all for your involvement! Remember, if there are two or more voters in your home, get e-mails out from each one. Every voice counts and the more the better!
Andrea
407.886.1011
Addresses to use for septic tanks
Bryan Nelson
407-880-4414 (District Office)
850-488-2023 (Tallahassee Office)
Bryan.nelson@myfloridahouse.gov
Andy Gardiner
407-897-2064 (District Office)
850-487-5047 (Tallahassee Office)
Gardiner.andy.web@flsenate..gov
State Surgeon General Secretary, Dept. of Health-Ana M. Viamonte Ros, M.D., M.P.H.
Office of the Secretary
2585 Merchants Row Boulevard
Tallahassee , FL
Phone: 850 -245-4321
Fax: 850 - 922-9453
Telephone: Govenor Charlie Crist
Citizen Services Hotline: (850) 488-4441
Executive Office of the Governor Switchboard: (850) 488-7146
[Office hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time]
Charlie.Crist@MyFlorida.com
Contact the Governor or Lt. Governor
Jeff.Kottkamp@MyFlorida.com
Telephone:
Citizen Services Hotline: * (850) 488-4441*
Executive Office of the Governor Switchboard: * (850) 488-7146* [Office hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time]
Dept. of Health website http://www.doh.state.fl.us/environment/ostds/index.html
The following standards shall apply in the Wekiva Study Area as defined in 369.316, F.S.
(a) In areas not scheduled, by an adopted local wastewater facility plan, to be served by a central sewer system by July 1, 2012, performance based treatment systems with a total nitrogen discharge limit of 10 milligrams per liter at the outlet of the treatment receptacle shall be required for new systems, modifications, and repairs. No increase in the authorized sewage flow allowances of 381.0065(4)(a), (b), and (g) shall allowed for use of these systems.
(b) In areas not scheduled, by an adopted local wastewater facility plan, to be served by a central sewer system by July 1, 2012, prior to completion of any real estate transaction for property with an onsite sewage treatment and disposal system that does not meet the above referenced standard, the seller must apply for and receive a construction permit to upgrade the system to a performance based treatment system with a total nitrogen discharge limit of 10 milligrams per liter at the outlet of the treatment receptacle. The system must be installed and receive final approval from the department within 18 months of the issue date of the permit.
(c) Land application of septage shall not be allowed.
407-880-4414 (District Office)
850-488-2023 (Tallahassee Office)
Bryan.nelson@myfloridahouse.gov
Andy Gardiner
407-897-2064 (District Office)
850-487-5047 (Tallahassee Office)
Gardiner.andy.web@flsenate..gov
State Surgeon General Secretary, Dept. of Health-Ana M. Viamonte Ros, M.D., M.P.H.
Office of the Secretary
2585 Merchants Row Boulevard
Tallahassee , FL
Phone: 850 -245-4321
Fax: 850 - 922-9453
Telephone: Govenor Charlie Crist
Citizen Services Hotline: (850) 488-4441
Executive Office of the Governor Switchboard: (850) 488-7146
[Office hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time]
Charlie.Crist@MyFlorida.com
Contact the Governor or Lt. Governor
Jeff.Kottkamp@MyFlorida.com
Telephone:
Citizen Services Hotline: * (850) 488-4441*
Executive Office of the Governor Switchboard: * (850) 488-7146* [Office hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time]
Dept. of Health website http://www.doh.state.fl.us/environment/ostds/index.html
The following standards shall apply in the Wekiva Study Area as defined in 369.316, F.S.
(a) In areas not scheduled, by an adopted local wastewater facility plan, to be served by a central sewer system by July 1, 2012, performance based treatment systems with a total nitrogen discharge limit of 10 milligrams per liter at the outlet of the treatment receptacle shall be required for new systems, modifications, and repairs. No increase in the authorized sewage flow allowances of 381.0065(4)(a), (b), and (g) shall allowed for use of these systems.
(b) In areas not scheduled, by an adopted local wastewater facility plan, to be served by a central sewer system by July 1, 2012, prior to completion of any real estate transaction for property with an onsite sewage treatment and disposal system that does not meet the above referenced standard, the seller must apply for and receive a construction permit to upgrade the system to a performance based treatment system with a total nitrogen discharge limit of 10 milligrams per liter at the outlet of the treatment receptacle. The system must be installed and receive final approval from the department within 18 months of the issue date of the permit.
(c) Land application of septage shall not be allowed.
E-MAIL TO GOV. CRIST
E-MAIL GOVERNOR CRIST TODAY!!!!!
The value of your home is at stake. Florida Department of Health is forcing a new rule regarding septic systems. If this rule is passed, you will be forced to install a new type of electrically-operated septic system.
Cost to install $10-20 thousand dollars
Cost to maintain $1200-1500 per year
Cost to operate add up to $50/month to your electric bill
If you try to sell your home, you will be forced to install the new system before closing….even if your current system is fully operational…that's if you can even find a buyer willing to live with this insane system.
If you try to add onto your home, you will be forced to install this new system.
If you lose power, you will have NO SEWAGE SYSTEM and raw sewage will back up into your house! When power is restored, you will have to pay the system installer to re-start your sewage treatment system.
Governor Crist is the only one who can stop this insanity. E-mail him today ! Charlie.Crist@myflorida.com. Do not wait. Tell him he must stop the Department of Health from passing this rule.
For more information on this urgent issue, go to OCINS on the web. (Orange County Information News Service). You may also contact Fred Brummer, Orange County Commissioner. He is asking everyone to contact Governor Crist about the DOH rule change. DO NOT WAIT.
The value of your home is at stake. Florida Department of Health is forcing a new rule regarding septic systems. If this rule is passed, you will be forced to install a new type of electrically-operated septic system.
Cost to install $10-20 thousand dollars
Cost to maintain $1200-1500 per year
Cost to operate add up to $50/month to your electric bill
If you try to sell your home, you will be forced to install the new system before closing….even if your current system is fully operational…that's if you can even find a buyer willing to live with this insane system.
If you try to add onto your home, you will be forced to install this new system.
If you lose power, you will have NO SEWAGE SYSTEM and raw sewage will back up into your house! When power is restored, you will have to pay the system installer to re-start your sewage treatment system.
Governor Crist is the only one who can stop this insanity. E-mail him today ! Charlie.Crist@myflorida.com. Do not wait. Tell him he must stop the Department of Health from passing this rule.
For more information on this urgent issue, go to OCINS on the web. (Orange County Information News Service). You may also contact Fred Brummer, Orange County Commissioner. He is asking everyone to contact Governor Crist about the DOH rule change. DO NOT WAIT.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
MARK YOUR CALENDER MARCH 10
Important Date March 10Th. Don't forget to attend the annual Bent Oak Home Owners Meeting at Clay Springs School! It is very important that you either attend or send in your proxy so we have a quorum so we won't have to reschedule the meeting again.
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