Saltville council approves $520 refund to homeowner for town sewer blockage, tables proposal to require homeowners call Public Works first

The Saltville Town Council voted on Sept. 9 to reimburse a homeowner who paid $520.54 to a private contractor that located a sewer blockage in the town’s main line.

Homeowner Corey Phillips provided a letter and an invoice from Stateline Services documenting a camera inspection, electric-snake attempts, and a dispatch fee. Stateline’s report, included in the council packet, concluded the blockage was approximately 50 feet into the street beyond the property line and therefore on the town’s side of the system.

On a motion by Councilman Ryan Comer and seconded by Councilman R.B. Henderson, the council approved the homeowner refund; roll-call votes were recorded as unanimous in favor. During discussion, Councilman David Buchanan suggested the town adopt a policy requiring homeowners to contact Public Works first before hiring private contractors for sewer problems so the town can assess whether the issue is municipal. Buchanan argued that an early Public Works inspection could avoid unnecessary contractor costs for residents when the problem lies in the town’s line.

Councilman Comer and others said they sympathized with homeowners who face sewage in their homes and might call a contractor rather than wait for town staff. Comer moved to table Buchanan’s proposed policy to allow more discussion; the motion to table carried (Henderson voted Nay; all other members voted Aye), leaving no immediate policy change in effect.

What this means: The council approved the single reimbursement request in the meeting packet. Staff and councilors discussed but did not adopt a standing policy requiring resident notification of Public Works before hiring private contractors; the idea will be revisited later.

The council’s packet includes the homeowner’s letter (dated Aug. 20, 2025) and Stateline’s invoice and service report documenting attempts to reach and image the blockage.