Santa Claus council hears residents’ reports of sewage backups after Hurricane Helena; inspections and temporary fixes planned

The Santa Claus City Council met Oct. 15 to address damage from Hurricane Helena and a related sewage crisis that left at least one residence flooded for an extended period.

Kathy Joyner told the council that when the generator at the sump pump stopped, her home “had suffered sewage running thru the house for 17 hours following the hurricane.” Councilmember John Fulmer said a broken backflow device allowed sewage to enter homes. Mayor Donita Bowen said she would have Darel Corley inspect the line and oversee repairs.

Darel Corley reported that his crew corrected areas identified in a recent smoke test that were allowing excess surface water into the sewer system. He recommended contacting the city of Vidalia to vacuum the sump pump before winter and noted there would be additional expenses related to generator work because of storm damage.

Council discussed measures to reduce future outages and backups, including obtaining a backup generator for the well and repairing or replacing damaged backflow protections and sump equipment. Eddie Wright emphasized safety concerns after storm damage to park and trail infrastructure; he reported about 15 broken lights on the walking trail that need prompt replacement.

Mayor Bowen said the council will continue discussions with regional water officials and pursue inspection and repair work with appropriate contractors. No formal ordinance or funding allocation for the sewer repairs was recorded at the meeting; council directed inspections and follow-up with Lyons and Vidalia utilities.