Sewer seen as key to unlocking housing in Malaga

MALAGA — A long-discussed sewer system in Malaga is moving closer to reality, as local agencies align around infrastructure seen as essential to unlocking new housing in one of the county’s last remaining growth areas.

Chelan-Douglas Regional Port Authority staff told commissioners on April 28 that a recent multi-agency meeting brought the county, the Malaga Water District and other partners into agreement on the need to begin formal planning for a sewer system.

The push comes as development in Malaga continues to run up against the limits of septic systems, which can restrict density and complicate permitting.

“Malaga has been identified as the last place in the county for affordable housing,” staff said during the meeting, noting that increasing density will require sewer service.

The Malaga Water District has already taken a key step, voting to transition into a sewer district. That move allows it to play a larger role in future infrastructure, though questions remain about which agency will ultimately lead the effort.

The next step under discussion is a sewer comprehensive plan, a 12- to 18-month process that would evaluate system options, outline permitting pathways and analyze long-term financial sustainability. The planning effort is expected to cost about $500,000.

While grant funding may be available to help build a system, staff noted that state agencies place heavy emphasis on whether a local entity can operate and maintain it over time, making rate structure and long-term viability central to the conversation.

The issue is also tied to the ongoing update of Malaga’s urban growth area. State review of that process will require a clear plan for providing sewer service, with early feedback from the Department of Commerce expected by October and final adoption anticipated by the end of the year.

In the near term, officials are also exploring interim solutions that could allow limited development to move forward ahead of a full system buildout. One concept discussed would allow developers to construct temporary connections to holding systems that could later tie into a permanent treatment facility.

A follow-up meeting is scheduled for May 13, when participating agencies are expected to begin identifying a lead entity to coordinate the planning effort.

Andrew Simpson: 509-433-7626 or andrew@ward.media