City proposes low-pressure sewer extension on South Street to serve existing lots and failing septic systems

City utilities staff proposed design and construction of a low-pressure sewer extension on South Street at the Aug. 5 work session to serve properties that currently lack gravity sewer and for some lots that are too small for septic systems. Interim Utilities Director John Bain said the low-pressure system would use individual grinder pumps at properties to feed a small force main that city crews would operate and maintain, avoiding the deep trenches and manholes of a gravity sewer extension.

Why it matters: The project would convert properties on septic — including several vacant lots unsuitable for septic — to municipal sewer service, resolving failing septic fields and enabling development for lots that cannot support septic systems. It also supports the city's Water First goals and regional environmental standards to reduce septic discharges.

Scope and approach: Bain said the project would run from the south end of South Street north toward the fire-station access road near the Chick-fil-A area. Preliminary design work and cost estimates were complete and staff requested approval to design and bid the project; Bain said design would take roughly 30 to 60 days and bid and construction likely to follow, with the city seeking contractor approval after bids and subject to the city's purchasing rules.

Technical points and costs: The system is a low-pressure force main rather than a gravity sewer; each property would install a grinder pump or a STEP-type system to lift wastewater into the force main, at which point the city would accept maintenance responsibility at the property line. Bain said the city currently has capacity reserved at the wastewater plant for septic-to-sewer conversions and staff has identified potential funding and loan/grant programs that could help homeowners with tap and pump costs. Councilmembers asked staff to present options for equitable cost-sharing, payment plans or grant assistance for homeowners who face the upfront cost of hook-up and grinder pumps.

Council questions and next steps: Council asked how residents would pay for connections and whether the city would require mandatory hookups; staff said mandatory connection language and a program for phased hookups were options to consider but are not currently in place and would require council policy direction. Staff recommended design approval and a return to council with the construction bid award for approval.