by Leslie Lytle, Messenger Staff Writer

At the Oct. 12 meeting, Sewanee Utility District manager Ben Beavers updated the board of commissioners on the TDOT project to narrow Highway 41A. During discussion about the pro forma data analysis underway, the board raised several long-range planning questions.

Asked about the current lack of activity on the TDOT project, Beavers said the retaining wall and 60-70 percent of the storm drain was completed. The decision to replace less sewer lines than initially planned for “saved them a month and a half,” Beavers observed. “They are so far ahead, they have extra time, so they pulled up and went to another project,” he speculated. “They have until May of next year to complete this.” The project is ready for sidewalks on the Cowan side going toward Taylor’s. The south side sidewalk will be part of the Mountain Goat Trail. On the north side, there will be a 6-foot green space between the sidewalk and the curb. The highway center line will remain the same.

Taking up the Pro Forma analysis prepared by SUD accountant Don Mills, SUD commissioners posed several questions. The analysis looks 10 years back and 10 years into the future. SUD President Charlie Smith questioned whether the 10-year projection considered future inflation or based inflation on the past 10 years. Commissioner Doug Cameron said the projected $150,000 increase in sewer revenue seemed “extravagant.” Beavers concurred. He questioned whether the figure was based on increased rates or increased customers. Beavers noted the University planned to release 10 more residential lots, which would need sewer service, but other than the Wiggins Creek and Parson’s Green developments, SUD had seen no substantial increase in sewer customers in the past 20 years. He also pointed out Wiggins Creek Phase Three would likely be a smaller development of less than 20 homesites.

Mills had asked Beavers to provide information on long-range capital projects. Beavers said SUD should have an engineer evaluate the wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) lagoons. He speculated draining the lagoons and installing a liner to prevent seepage might be necessary, but he could not budget for the cost without advice. Looking further ahead, Beavers said the WWTP spray fields would likely be converted to a drip system eventually. When preparing the 2022 budget, Beavers plans to collect data on long-range operating plant and capital equipment expenses.

In his manager’s report, Beavers said SUD experienced no sewer overflows during the recent heavy rainfall and praised SUD employees who worked in the downpour until 1 a.m. one night searching for waterline leaks caused by lightning strikes. Financially, Beavers said revenue was normal for this time of year, up 6 percent from last year. Although a 20 percent increase in chemical costs will increase expenses beyond the budgeted amount, Beavers said he hoped to finish the year in a positive net position by minimizing other expenses. In 2020, SUD finished the year in a negative net position due to reduced water sales because students were absent for long periods and summer programs were cancelled.

SUD customers will elect two commissioners in January. Commissioner Paul Evans will seek reelection. Commissioner Randall Henley is term limited and cannot run again. The board hopes to identify six candidates for the two open seats. SUD customers interested in serving as commissioner should contact Beavers at the SUD office.