Spalding County Water Authority Addresses Highway 16 Water Main Break and ARPA Funding

The Spalding County Water Authority's regular meeting on June 18, 2025, highlighted significant progress in reducing the number of unknown water issues, with the total dropping from over 8,000 to 6,500. This improvement reflects the dedicated efforts of the field team, showcasing their commitment to enhancing water service reliability.

A key discussion point was the recent water main break on Highway 16, which caused concerns about road safety. Officials clarified that while the break did not collapse the highway, it did undermine part of a travel lane, necessitating repairs that will involve cutting out a section of the road and backfilling it with gravel before applying a concrete cap. The water authority anticipates that costs associated with these repairs will likely be passed on to the city of Griffin, as part of their operational agreements.

Financial updates were also a focal point, revealing a healthy cash balance of over $17 million as of May. Revenues have increased by nearly 11% year-over-year, while expenditures have decreased by approximately 6%. However, confusion arose regarding the accounting of ARPA funds, which were not initially reflected in revenue reports, leading to concerns about perceived overspending.

The meeting concluded with a call for clearer communication and understanding of financial matters, emphasizing the importance of transparency in the authority's operations. As the water authority continues to address infrastructure challenges and financial management, stakeholders remain focused on ensuring reliable water services for the community.