Developers seek Memphis sewer access amid city policy dispute

In a recent meeting of the Tennessee Board of Utility Regulation, a significant discussion unfolded regarding a property owner's request for sewer access in Memphis. Joe Jarrett, representing a group of developers, presented a case for connecting their commercially zoned property at Walnut Grove and Houston Levy to the city's gravity sewer system. This request has been met with resistance from the City of Memphis, which has denied access citing various reasons, including the property's classification within the Marys Creek Basin.

Jarrett argued that the sewer line in question runs through their property and that they have already connected one phase of their development to this line. He emphasized that the city had previously allowed other nearby developments to access the same sewer infrastructure, raising concerns about fairness and equity in the city's decision-making process. He noted that the denial of access has significant economic implications for their property, which is situated in a rapidly developing area of Shelby County.

The city, represented by Cece Drayton and Scott Morgan, countered Jarrett's claims by stating that the property is indeed located in the Marys Creek Basin, which does not have the necessary sewer infrastructure to support new connections. They highlighted that the city is not obligated to extend sewer services beyond its municipal boundaries and that the existing infrastructure is at capacity. Drayton pointed out that Jarrett's property lacks a formal contract with the city for sewer access, which complicates the situation further.

The board members engaged in a thorough discussion, questioning the city's policies and the rationale behind denying the connection. They explored the possibility of allowing a connection to the Grays Creek interceptor, which could potentially serve the property if certain conditions were met. However, the city's representatives maintained that extending services to unincorporated areas could undermine the city's growth strategy.

As the meeting concluded, the board acknowledged the complexities of the situation and the need for further deliberation. The outcome of this discussion could have lasting implications for the developers and the broader community, particularly as Memphis continues to navigate its growth and infrastructure challenges. The board's decision will be crucial in determining whether Jarrett and his partners can move forward with their development plans, which are vital for the economic vitality of the area.