Bethel orders sewage repair at Akiak Drive home, with a lien if it is not done

Bethel shut off water to 251 Akiak Drive on Aug. 12 to stop the household generating more wastewater after a failed private system discharged untreated sewage onto the ground. The resident turned the water back on the next day, the city reported. An initial notice of nuisance had gone out July 31. The record does not establish the property's current water-service status.

At an Aug. 21 quasi-judicial hearing, the council acting as a court, City Manager Lori Strickler presented evidence that the property was a public health and environmental hazard. Owner Larry Little attended and gave evidence.

The council ordered a cleanup plan by noon Aug. 24 and repair of the discharge source by Aug. 25. Both deadlines have passed. The city's September report says enforcement continues. The order lets the city do the work and charge the cost as a lien, subject to foreclosure. The owner may seek a rehearing or appeal to Superior Court.

The Planning Commission meets Sept. 10 at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall on nuisance properties. The planning director has asked commissioners to rank eight properties for a future abatement hearing. 251 Akiak Drive is not among them.