By Bob Ball
The South County Sewer and Water Authority has launched a major repair and replacement project for its sewer system, authorizing a $825,000 revenue bond issue to pay for it.
Heavy summer rainfall caused flooding in the authority’s sewer service area, from pump failures and a pressurized sewer break. The system is 20 years old. “It’s normal to have to go in and make repairs to the system,” LaPierre said.
Without repairs, the authority faces higher costs. “If we have another 100-year flood, we’ll have potential pollution into lake systems.“
The project will include rebuilding lift stations, relining manholes and some lift stations, and replacing valves, LaPierre said. “The bond financing provides the opportunity for lower, more steady annual rate increases.”
The authority’s members, supervisors of Pavilion and Brady charter townships and Schoolcraft Township, approved the bond issue preparations.
LaPierre also told the three supervisors and non-voting representatives from Schoolcraft and Vicksburg villages that Lockport’s water system in St. Joseph County is taking steps to acquire property for a new well and possibly a wastewater treatment plant aimed at providing service to Lockport and Park Townships. It could be capable of serving Schoolcraft Township and Village.
A representative of the water system signed a right of first refusal for each property, LaPierre said.
County planners report increasing interest in developing properties along the US-131 corridor for industrial and other uses. Developers are expected to require sewer and water before they invest.
