Streamlining Onsite Septic System Approval for a Growing County

Overview

The client, renowned for its growing communities, faced significant challenges in the approval and placement of individual, onsite septic systems. These challenges caused delays and frustration among residents and builders. To address these issues, the client’s Department of Sewage Disposal Management sought the expertise of Thrivence, a consulting firm specializing in innovative process improvements.

The Ask

The client’s Department of Sewage Disposal Management aimed to develop a more efficient and streamlined process for approving the use and placement of onsite septic systems. This initiative was crucial to meet the needs of county residents while ensuring the protection of public health and environmental resources. Thrivence proposed a comprehensive, multi-phase plan consisting of three key stages: Explore, Develop, and Act. The plan was designed to understand the current operational strengths and areas for growth, develop actionable recommendations, and implement the necessary changes to achieve the desired outcomes.

Solutions

Thrivence leveraged the extensive technical expertise of its parent company, Barge Design Solutions, and their team of wastewater engineers. This collaboration ensured that the process improvement was not only innovative but also grounded in solid engineering principles. The integration of a regulation review with process improvement work yielded the best and most efficient outcome for the Department.

• Regulation Review: Conducting a thorough review of regulations to determine changes necessary for a more streamlined approval process.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring that all proposed changes complied with local, state, and federal regulations.
• Process Improvement: Facilitating problem solving sessions with department leaders.
• Implementation Support: Providing tactical support during the implementation phase to ensure seamless integration of new processes.

Results

• Improved Efficiency: The streamlined process significantly reduced the time required to approve onsite septic systems, enhancing overall efficiency.
• Enhanced Stakeholder Satisfaction: Stakeholders, including homeowners and builders, reported higher satisfaction levels due to the more transparent and efficient approval process.
• Public Health Protection: The improved processes ensured protection of public health and the county’s groundwater resources.
• Sustainable Change: The Department adopted a culture of continuous innovation and improvement, guided by the actionable recommendations and the implementation plan developed by Thrivence.