Sparta Rules Against Grinder Pumps Citing Concern About TDEC Oversight

Grinder pumps will not be allowed in connection to the Sparta sewer system after the Board of Aldermen passed a second reading of an updated ordinance.

Mayor Jerry Lowery said the city needs to do everything it can to continue its progress with the state in terms of the sewer system. Sparta continues under a sewer moratorium. Using grinder pumps introduced ammonia, Lowery said, something TDEC is trying to limit.

“TDEC has already cut our ammonia levels at our sewer plant in half,” Lowery said. “And if that continues to grow and what’s happening is high ammonia levels released into the aquatic system kills fish, environmental things. And that’s what TDEC and the EPA is concerned about. They don’t like how much ammonia levels we’re putting in, and then they shut our sewer down.”

Public Works Director Dillard Quick said pumps not used everyday can create more ammonia, causing a bigger issue. Lowery said grinder pumps could be used in rare circumstances, but those need to be considered on a case-by-case basis, such as when gravity sewers are not working.

“I just don’t feel it’s in the best interest of the city of Sparta to accept grinder pumps at this time for that reason,” Lowery said. “Because I cannot put my trust in what EPA and TDEC is going to rule on with environmental issues in five to ten years and then put the city of Sparta under some serious issues that we can’t even foresee right now. That’s my opinion.”

A grinder pump works like a garbage disposal, grinding up wastewater. It’s used in areas where gravity service does not work well.

The change in ordinance had been table previously. The ordinance passed Thursday on second and final reading.