Porter Beach Residents Push for Sanitary Sewer Systems

For many years, the 135 households in the Porter Beach neighborhood have sought a sanitary sewer system to replace outdated septic systems. The current dry well septic systems have the potential to leak waste into Lake Michigan. The town of Porter acknowledges the necessity of sanitary sewer connections for Porter Beach and areas north of U.S. 20, identified for possible development.

One potential development site is the former Johnson Inn. Valparaiso businessman Chuck Williams plans new development on this site. Development here hinges on installing sanitary sewers. A recent rule from the state of Indiana, effective January 1, 2027, prohibits repairs to existing septic systems along Lake Michigan, creating concerns for the neighborhood.

Resident Rob Albrecht-Mallinger, a member of the town’s plan commission and zoning board, supports transitioning to a sewer system, especially given environmental sensitivity. The new state rule complicates residents’ ability to address sudden septic system failures. After 2027, the Porter County government cannot permit repairs for failing septic systems in Porter Beach.

“The trouble is, we didn’t have enough warning to make this transition,” Albrecht-Mallinger said. On October 27, the Porter Town Council passed a resolution urging the Indiana General Assembly and the Indiana Department of Health to delay these new rules.

Porter’s resolution points out that full compliance by January 2027 is unlikely due to financial burdens, supply chain issues, and a shortage of qualified specialists. The area’s unique topography also adds challenges. Restricting health departments from issuing repair permits could severely impact residents’ health and welfare.

Councilwoman Laura Madigan, D-Ward 1, explained that the town wants to maintain repair rights. “We agree it is a priority to transition away from septic and make it a priority for sanitary sewer lines,” she said. Madigan hopes for funding from various government levels to establish a sewer system by 2030.

Michael Barry, the town’s development director, noted the community’s need for sewers since 1989. Originally, Porter Beach was a summer cabin area, not a year-round neighborhood. Barry is optimistic about gaining momentum for sewer funding. Once legal processes allow the sale of the Johnson Inn property, developer Chuck Williams plans to acquire the site.

Other lakeside areas like Ogden Dunes, Dune Acres, and Beverly Shores face similar sewage issues. Beverly Shores, ahead of others, secured an EPA grant to study the feasibility of sewers. David Phelps, president of the Beverly Shores Town Council, remarked on preliminary efforts to explore connecting with Michigan City’s sewage system, though finances remain a challenge due to a small tax base.