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| Last updated at 9:36 AM on 03/11/09 |
Kippens council grants Brennan's septic permit 
CHRISTOPHER VAUGHAN
After several years of feuding with town officials, Kippens residents Pat and Delores Brennan have received approval to install a septic in their home at 448A Kippens Rd.
The Brennans had initially been denied permission to install a septic system, as their house was built without a permit. The matter was tied up in legal matters over the next few years and ensuing councils refused to waver on the issue.
The current council, which was sworn-in on Sept. 30, had a change of mind. An olive branch was first extended at council's Oct. 13 regular meeting, at which the Brennans were in attendance.
"[Mayor Cator Best] came over and talked to me and said, 'We're going to arrange a meeting with you and Delores,'" said Mr. Brennan.
The following Monday, the Brennans met with Mayor Best, and Councillors John Dawson, Wayne Simon and Debbie Brake Patton.
"They said they'd let us hook up a sewer, let us put a sewer system in," said Mr. Brennan of the meeting.
On the same day, the town sent a letter to the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation, notifying them of the approval.
"Council met with Mr. and Mrs. Brennan today and it was agreed that council will approve their septic system pending Department of Health certification," stated Debbie Cormer, acting town clerk, in the letter.
Mr. Brennan, who receives government assistance, said he and his wife have been given the go-ahead by the Department of Health and are now waiting on funding from the housing authority for the installation.
In addition to the septic system, council also agreed to let the Brennans hook up to the town water supply. The couple was informed they would be charged a fine for building their house without a permit.
"And then we have to pay property tax just like everybody else," said Mr. Brennan.
Up until now, the Brennans had been charged minimum property tax for vacant land and not a residence tax.
When contacted, Mayor Best said the septic permit would officially be approved at the council's Nov. 12 meeting.
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03/11/09
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