Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Utilities topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Utilities update: new plant commissioning, large pump station bid and a proposed 5% rate increase
Summary
Public utilities outlined near‑term capital work including Dedmon Road pump station (bid opening Feb. 19, est. $1.3M), Coolme water treatment plant commissioning, and recommended a 5% across‑the‑board rate increase to help cover rising O&M and capital costs.
Davie County's utilities director updated commissioners on several major water and sewer capital matters and proposed modest rate adjustments.
Capital projects highlighted included a scheduled bid opening for the Dedmon Road water pump station rehabilitation (projects engineer estimate ~ $1.3 million), Dutchman Creek lift station activity (grant funded, near completion), and internal system rehabilitation needs such as a raw‑water backwash line (~$25k estimate) and aerobic digester interior coating/rehab. The Coolme water treatment plant construction is in its final phases; staff reported electrical and delivery delays and discussed testing and commissioning steps with contractors and vendors.
Rates and revenue: Utilities staff recommended a 5% rate increase across the utility systems this year, citing rising operation and maintenance costs, chemicals and parts and industry pressures. Utilities also expects additional revenue from interlocal water/sewer service: Moxville plans to add about 350,000 gallons/day of sewer to Coolme, and the county will begin selling bulk water at a quoted bulk rate of roughly $4.20 per thousand gallons, which will help with debt service tied to the new plant.
Detention center and modular housing: staff also discussed a proposed 21‑bed modular housing unit (mod‑core) as a stopgap; the sheriff and general services emphasized state approval for modular units may be required and that modulars are not a long‑term replacement for new construction.
Why it matters: The Coolme plant and major pump‑station work drive near‑term capital spending and directly influence utility rates and debt/operating cost coverage. Commissioners accepted the update and asked follow‑up questions on timelines and demolition plans for the old Coolme plant.
Next steps: Utilities will return with finalized bid information, continue oversight of Coolme commissioning and return additional detail on potential demolition timing and rate implementation.
