Sparta Mayor Says Sewer Moratorium Could Be Lifted In About A Year

Sparta Mayor Jerry Lowery said the city’s sewer moratorium could be lifted in about a years time if the city persists in repairing its problem areas.

TDEC issued a consent order that the past administration signed in August that limits new sewer connections. Lowery said he met with state officials to gauge a time frame.

“TDEC has informed us that if the data lines up, they look at what we’re doing and our plan is correct, then they will look to release us from this moratorium,” Lowery said. “So that’s what we are doing. We just have to be aggressive in finding the trouble spots.”

Lowery said TDEC has emphasized that data points of sewage flow will be a large part of proving progress. Lowery said the city is considering contracting with a company to conduct that work. Lowery said it is important to get a control sample now while the groundwater table is low.

As for ongoing efforts, Sparta has already solicited bids to smoke test its sewer system to find problem areas. Lowery said the city is also conducting about $1.8 million worth of man hole improvements.