Alternative Technology Advisory Committee (ATAC) Meeting December 6, 2018

Public Meeting
Meeting agenda and meeting minutes from the December 6, 2018 Alternative Technology Advisory Committee meeting.
9:30 am

Room 5A, 9:30 a.m. Agenda:

  1.  Welcome/Introductions 
  2. Continuing discussion of Application 12-01, Composting Toilet and Urine Diversion System

City of Portland Development Services Alternative Technology Advisory Committee Meeting Notes
December 6, 2018

Attendees: Joshua Klyber, Bob Sweeney, Jeff Cordial, Terry Whitehill, Nancy Thorington, David Posada, Aron Faegre, Ole Ersson, Donna Ruark (notes)

  1. Welcome/Introductions Joshua welcomed everyone and asked if the group was finished with the previous application. Terry replied that, yes, it had gone through appeals and was approved.
  2. Continuing discussion of Application 12-01, Composting Toilet and Urine Diversion System

Joshua began the discussion by thanking Ole for submitting his application, and for submitting such specific information.

Joshua pointed out, and the group agreed, that the ATAC application should be more general, not necessarily site-specific. The appeal application should be specific.

Joshua stated that the calculations were great. It should be specified how many composting toilet facilities and urine diversions are used. The specific size per person should be stated—use detailed information as an example.

Joshua wondered about tying 2 properties together. Ole asked if they could go through the joining process. Terry said the easiest thing would be to create a “not to sell separately” document. It can be removed eventually, but it is the easiest way is to join 2 properties.

Ole said that he wants to install the composting toilet adjacent to the existing toilet – it’s not changing existing fixtures. Terry stated that the main issue would be clearances. The administrative appeal board would want to see clearances and a site plan.

There was a question regarding accessibility. Ole said the building dates to 1959, so accessibility guidelines don’t apply.

Joshua brought up the issue of the box around the bucket. It was suggested that it should be made of a corrosion-resistant material; the plywood top especially should perhaps be rethought.

Joshua reminded Ole that no short-term rentals would be allowed. Short-term is defined as less than 3 months.

Joshua asked about the transfer process for the urine. Ole explained that there are 3 tanks and 1 drum. The urine is transferred by spigot and bucket to the tanks. Joshua then inquired about the cleanup process for urine spills. That should be specified in the application.

There was a discussion regarding the types of plants around which the humanure can be spread. It was agreed that the risk for fruits and vegetables, even tubers, is minimal, but that DEQ allows ornamental plants and fruits only. And again, the appeal should be specific regarding where the waste is being distributed.

Bob asked if there was anything proprietary regarding the application. Ole replied no, it is being designed to be used as an available resource by others.

The group then finalized the discussion by restating that the application should be changed to be more general. They also requested a procedures manual regarding urine.

It was decided that another meeting is not necessary at this time. The applicant will submit a revised application to Donna, who will distribute it to the group via email. Voting can be done electronically, then the recommendation can be written up and distributed via email.

For information about past meeting agendas and minutes, please contact Donna Ruark.