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State law limits use of $3M earmark for Cameron Heights sewer, Rep. Pierce tells Raeford council
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Summary
Representative Garland Pierce informed Raeford officials that S.L. 2024-1 restricts a $3 million allocation to the Cameron Heights sewer extension and that any unused funds must be returned to the State Water/Wastewater Reserve; he urged the city to pursue additional DEQ grants for neighboring extensions.
Representative Garland Pierce told Raeford City Council on Nov. 3 that $3 million allocated specifically for the Cameron Heights sewer extension under S.L. 2024-1 can be used only for that project and that any unspent portion must be returned to the State Water/Wastewater Reserve.
Pierce read an email from Kristine E. Leggett, principal fiscal analyst, clarifying the restriction and noting that language in H.B. 260 and S.B. 257 that might have broadened allowable uses has not become law. He said the Cameron Heights project’s estimated cost in the city’s paperwork was substantially less than the $3 million earmark—Pierce cited a project estimate of $560,569—so that the city should expect surplus funds and would need to seek additional grant sources if it wants to extend sewer to neighboring areas.
City Manager Dennis Baxley and community members said they had sought clarification because residents hoped leftover funds could be redirected to serve adjacent neighborhoods. Pierce advised the council that, absent a new statute or approved reallocation mechanism, the city should apply for separate DEQ funding if it wishes to extend sewer service beyond the Cameron Heights project.
Pierce characterized the $3 million as targeted to the Cameron Heights application; he urged the city to pursue other state or federal grant opportunities to expand service to neighboring communities.