Malibu, an area of Los Angeles that contains some of the most expensive real estate in Los Angeles County and is home to countless movie stars, is about to lose the bulk of its septic tank systems after years of fierce debate.
The septic tank system has been popular in the area because it hindered growth in a neighborhood coveted for its wide open spaces and beautiful views. But detractors fought against the ocean and beach pollution caused as a result.
The switch to a sewer system will come at great expense to residents in the areas affected, around $500 a month. Businesses will pay $20,000 a month. There is a compromise which would shrink the affected areas and allow owners in commercial areas to comply by 2015 and residents in Malibu Knolls, Serra Retreat, and Malibu Colony by 2019.
Septic tanks were a major consideration in Malibu becoming an incorporated city in 1991 to stop Los Angeles County installing a sewer system in the area. Residents were afraid of over-development.
The stench in the area, especially after a rainstorm is famous and called the "Malibu smell". Not what one would imagine in such an upscale neighborhood.
In an area full of beachgoers and famous for its surfer, getting rid of this polluting factor can only be a good thing.
Jane Peters, connecting you to the L.A. real estate scene
Buying or selling real estate in Los Angeles can be an overwhelming process. Contact Jane Peters, Los Angeles realtor specializing in absentee owners, out of town buyers, and those who need that extra attention, in order to make the transaction a smooth, trouble-free, and fun experience.
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That's interesting, Jane...I had no idea about the "Malibu smell" before reading this post. :)
Leilani
Maybe you could come and sample some of it, Leilani.
P. U. Jane!!! This is interesting, and quite expensive! Still when the pollution becomes that bad, it is time to take care of the situation, I think your right -- it sounds like a good thing!
I have never heard of the "Malibu Smell" either - eewww! There was a community here that switched a few years back and the residents were happy on one hand but upset on the other due to the cost! Pick your battles!
Mary, selling homes in that area is always a challenge with the septic tanks.
Leesa, right. However, the people in the hills, who are not really affected by the pollution don't have a lot of motivation to do this.
Jane, maybe someone will bottle the smell as a souvenir of how Malibu once smelled! :)
Leilani
If they do, Leilani, I will be sure to send it to you as a gift :). No, you don't have to thank me.