Athens County presents $9.93 million New Marshfield sewer plan; construction expected March 2026–April 2027

County staff and DLZ presented an updated scope, funding package and schedule for the New Marshfield sanitary sewer project at a public meeting held Feb. 17. The updated total project cost is $9,926,405, with the recorded funding mix including an OEPA Package A contract ($5,459,985), an OEPA Package B contract ($2,391,420), an ODOD grant ($550,000, including $200,000 for on‑lot connections), an ACoE grant ($900,000), and an ARC/FORCEMAN grant ($625,000).

The presentation described a proposed construction start date of March 30, 2026, with construction completion targeted April 30, 2027, and service connections beginning May 2027. The materials indicated proposed monthly user rates of $55 to $65 with a $40–$50 tap fee option (materials described “no tap fee” scenarios and alternatives). Contractor DV Weber and DLZ construction observer Gary Silcott were listed as points of contact for residents; staff noted a future bid process to complete Contract B funding and to finalize connection assistance details for owner‑occupied homes.

Commissioners and water‑and‑sewer staff discussed hydrant shut‑offs identified during a leak investigation and coordination with the fire department when hydrants are taken out of service. The board also asked staff to verify how tax liens or property tax‑buyer activity might affect decisions on installing sewer taps to properties where liens exist.

Project funding and the planned bid schedule were presented as subject to finalization for Contract B and the board did not take a formal vote on project adoption during the meeting; materials and the public meeting provide the latest schedule and funding breakdown.