City Council approves $11.5M Clean Water Fund application for wastewater plant upgrades

Crockett City Council has taken a significant step towards improving its aging wastewater infrastructure by approving the submission of an application for $11.54 million in funding from the Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF). During the meeting on December 4, 2023, city officials emphasized the urgent need for upgrades to the North wastewater treatment plant, which has been operating since the 1970s and is currently struggling to meet capacity demands.

The council's decision comes in response to ongoing issues with the plant, including a non-functioning digester and a single operational clarifier, which have led to violations of Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) mandates. City leaders highlighted that failure to address these problems could result in costly penalties, making the funding application critical for both compliance and community growth.

Mayor and council members expressed confidence in the project, noting that Crockett ranks fifth out of 380 applicants for this funding, indicating a strong chance of receiving financial support. The proposed overhaul aims not only to rectify existing violations but also to increase the plant's capacity to handle stormwater events, which currently exceed its maximum daily capacity of 6 million gallons.

In addition to the funding application, the council approved the procurement of engineering, legal, and financial advisory services to ensure the project moves forward efficiently. With the potential for 70% loan forgiveness on the funding, city officials are optimistic about maximizing available resources to enhance the community's wastewater management capabilities. The council's proactive approach signals a commitment to sustainable growth and environmental responsibility in Crockett.