Progress continues on Warren Twp. sanitary sewer line project

Progress continues on replacing a failing septic system in Warren Township. It's a project that comes with a hefty price tag. Before commissioners vote to pass a resolution that gives the project the green light, a public hearing welcomed community members concerned about the cost.  

But public health concerns have led the county to move full steam ahead, if the commissioners approve.

County officials have been working to replace old septic lines in Warren Township's Meadowbrook area since 1999, an effort that is easier said than done with a price tag of $17.6 million.

"This project's been a long time coming," said Gary Newbrough, Trumbull County Sanitary Engineer. "The Trumbull County Board of Commissioners and the Sanitary Engineers have put 100% maximum effort into putting this project where it is today."

The project is in response to a 2007 consent decree between the Ohio EPA and Trumbull County. The new sanitary sewer lines would service over 100 homes plus a few surrounding businesses.

"Over the next few years, it will be built out to service over 700 structures," Newbrough added. "We are glad to share the expected costs to homeowners and the reasons that we are having to build it."

The project consists of 3,600 linear feet of 18" PVC sanitary sewer pipe and 7,300 linear feet of 8" PVS sanitary sewer pipe.

The county using ARP dollars and a handful of grants to partially pay for the project. A hefty chunk of $11 million is coming from the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency's Water Pollution Control Loan Fund. As of now, 57% of the project is paid for.

Residents must pay a $1,850 required tap-in fee, $125 plumbing inspection, and a $46.88 average monthly sewer bill.

"If you know someone who is a licensed plumber, could you lay the lines to your house?" one woman in the crowd asked. 

One resident asked if she could opt out of the new system. The Sanitary Engineer's officer stated it's required.

"I'm happy with what I have," said Drusilla Vesey of Flora Road. "I can afford it. I can't afford another $35 a month."

Newbrough explained the county is still seeking funding for the subsequent phases. 

Commissioners will now vote in the coming weeks before construction begins.

If the project passes, the replacement is set to begin in January and construction will last 18 months.