Newbern, an Alabama town 50 miles south of Tuscaloosa, will receive a $1 million federal grant to improve its septic systems, multiple media outlets reported. Faulty septic systems in Newbern have been a public health hazard for years.
Governor Kay Ivey’s office reported that the grant will cover septic system upgrades for more than 100 households and nine community institutions including the local post office. The project includes septic tanks and pumps, new sewer connections, sewer collection lines, and expanded treatment facilities.
The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs will administer the grant, with funding provided by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
In a news release from the Governor’s office, Gov. Ivey said, “This is a monumental project for Newbern, involving multiple partners, which will certainly mean better living conditions for people in the town and the surrounding area. I am pleased to support this local effort to improve the quality of life for so many.”
Iowa legislature delays new septic rule
Iowa legislature’s Administrative Rules Review Committee temporarily blocked a proposal to change septic guidelines for aerobic treatment units, KDSN Radio reported. After more than 40 minutes of testimony from the public, the committee voted 8-2 to delay a change proposed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. Current state law requires that the discharged water from aerobic treatment units be sent through soil or sand filters as a final step to treat sewage. The DNR proposed eliminating that final filtering step.
The DNR water quality bureau chief said the proposed septic guideline would reduce regulatory burdens, something the governor requested of state agencies, and “creates a level playing field for all types of [septic] systems.”
With the vote, the committee delayed the rule from taking effect at least until the end of the 2026 legislative sessions.
5 North Carolina counties receive EPA funding for water infrastructure projects
Five counties in western North Carolina received more than $86 million for wastewater infrastructure and drinking water projects, multiple media outlets reported. The funding was made available through the Environmental Protection Agency to areas affected by Hurricane Helene. The EPA program aims to ensure that water systems are more resilient to storms and flooding in the future.
Governor Josh Stein said, “Too many people lost access to water when Hurricane Helene struck, and in some places, it took months to be able to guarantee potable water. These grants will help towns across western North Carolina strengthen their water infrastructure so that it can better withstand future storms.”
Virginia provides subsidies via Septic Pump Out Assistance Program
Low-income homeowners in south-central Virginia may be eligible for subsidies for septic pumpouts through the Septic Pump Out Assistance Program, reported The Altavista Journal. The Southeast Rural Community Assistance Project of Roanoke and Virginia Environmental Endowment Grant Program offered well and septic training sessions for homeowners in Franklin and Pittsylvania counties. Homeowners who attended the sessions and met income guidelines could qualify for up to $450 towards septic pumpouts. Additional perks were free well assessments and free drinking water quality testing.
Southern Nevada residents oppose septic regulation changes
A Southern Nevada Health District proposal to change septic regulations met with opposition from Nevada residents, multiple media outlets reported. Hundreds of homeowners attended public meetings and sent hundreds of emails opposing the proposed regulations, calling them unnecessary and financially burdensome.
The proposed regulations would require five-year inspections and operating permits for Clark County residents at a cost of $226 per permit. If a septic system didn’t meet state standards, the homeowners could be required to connect to the municipal system at an estimated cost of $30,000-$80,000.
Currently, septic systems are inspected for loan certifications, tenant improvement applications, and complaints. The SNHD proposed a recurring schedule of septic maintenance to proactively address any issues. However, due to public feedback, the SNHD postponed acting on the proposed updates.
Georgia county’s Water Resources Assistance Program grants now available
Low-income homeowners in Gwinnett County, Georgia, may be eligible for grants to maintain or pump septic systems, fix plumbing leaks, and replace old water fixtures, Your Local News reported. Homeowners who earn 65% or less of the Area Median Income are eligible to apply for the Water Resources Assistance Program. More information is available at the Gwinnett County website.
