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Candidates call for qualified appointments and oversight of wastewater authority after step-system issues
Summary
Candidates said wastewater authority and utility appointments should prioritize engineering and accountability after problems with STEP systems and a recent school that required temporary pump-and-haul service. The mayor described appointment processes and referenced statutory constraints for board composition.
Candidates discussed the county's wastewater challenges and the qualifications they would prioritize for appointments to the wastewater authority and related boards.
Gail Hellum said nominees "need to have an understanding of engineering, infrastructure, finance" and be held accountable. Christina Puza Smith urged baseline studies and adherence to state guidelines, noting the Tennessee utilities process and saying "there are best practices out there" that must be followed. Mayor Hutto explained statutory appointment rules for utility districts and the water authority and recounted the recent school sewer episode: staffing changes at a utility partner and permitting delays led to an interim "pump and haul" arrangement while a bioclear system and drip-field plans were finalized.
All candidates endorsed clearer oversight, better coordination with TDEC and documented standards for how wastewater projects are reviewed and monitored.
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