by Leslie Lytle, Messenger Staff Writer

At the Nov. 19 meeting, the Sewanee Utility District Board of Commissioners approved a 2025 budget calling for a rate increase and a monthly fee for grinder pump customers. The board also discussed the upcoming commissioner election, a Deep Woods resident’s request for water service, and approved purchasing a new pump for the main lift station on Bob Stewman Road.

Commenting on the grinder pump fee, SUD manager Ben Beavers said, “Anybody served by a grinder pump pays $8 per month. We spent over $30,000 this past year on grinder pumps. Other customers don’t benefit.” SUD has 195 customers serviced by grinder pumps. The $8 per month fee will only pay half of SUD’s projected grinder pump expenses.

The 3 percent increase in the water, sewer, and base rate charges will increase a customer’s monthly bill by less than $3 if the customer has both water and sewer service and by approximately $1.50 if the customer has only water service.

“Chemical costs continue to outpace inflation,” Beavers said, citing reasons for the rate increase. Other cost increases include health insurance, which rose 8.5 percent last year, and a 2.5 percent cost of living raise for employees.

One seat comes open on the SUD Board of Commissioners in 2025. Commissioners serve a four-year term, must participate in commissioner training seminars, and receive a $50 monthly stipend. Prospective candidates should contact a commissioner or the SUD office. No nominating petition is required.

Deep Woods resident John Clark’s request for water service would require a three-mile pipe, Beavers said. Based on current and possible future residents, Beavers estimated the three-mile water line would serve less than 60 homes. “In the past we have never run a line for so few customers,” he said. “I want to avoid a Jump Off situation.” Extending water service to the Jump Off community did not pay for itself, Beavers stressed. “It nearly bankrupt the district.” Beavers investigated Clark’s suggestion SUD apply for a USDA grant. SUD does not qualify because the median income in the district is too high. Board President Charlie Smith concurred with Beavers assessment of the request to extend the water line. “It violates our growth pays for growth policy,” Smith insisted.

Taking up the issue of the main pump at the Bob Stewman Road lift station, Beavers said the pump was operating at only one-fifth capacity. Beavers researched options: repair cost, $29,795; replacement with the same brand pump (Crown), $35,495; replacement with a Gorman Rupp brand pump, $23,750. “In my opinion, the Gorman Rupp is a better pump, and it’s significantly cheaper,” Beavers said. “It’s a quality pump. We have Gorman Rupps in our system.” The board approved the purchase. Delivery may take four to six weeks, Beavers noted.

The board meets next on Tuesday, Dec. 17.