County approves $18,000 feasibility study for septic and septage options after public reports of pumpers out of service

Bulloch County commissioners approved a task release May 20 authorizing Hofstadler and Associates to prepare a feasibility report and analysis of options for septic and sewage services in the county, with a not‑to‑exceed lump sum budget of $18,000.

Planning Director James Pope said the study follows public comments and a small working group that met April 24 to evaluate potential solutions. Pope said the analysis will consider three options identified by staff and will also review the county's eligibility for approximately $4 million in EPA funding that could support sewer infrastructure; staff noted those funds have a timeline and could be lost if not addressed.

During public comment earlier in the meeting, contractor Keith Hamilton reported that commercial septic pumpers serving the county (Porter's and Metter services referenced) were not operational after heavy rains on May 11–12, leaving at least 25 households without local disposal. He said primary pump stations were out and that operator availability and equipment failures meant stations would be closed "until further notice," forcing some haulers to take septage out of county at substantially higher disposal costs.

Pope and staff said the feasibility report will help identify potential infrastructure options and funding strategies and recommended approval of the task release. The board approved the $18,000 task release unanimously.

County staff said they will form a small steering group to work with the consultant, and that the study is intended to inform choices ahead of deadlines for available grant or EPA funds.