City officials outline $20M sewer and water projects funding strategy

La Vergne city officials are grappling with significant infrastructure needs as they prepare for the upcoming budget cycle, with a focus on essential water and sewer projects. During the recent budget workshop, city leaders highlighted the urgent requirement for funding to address critical sewer and water system upgrades, estimating that projects could total around $10 million annually, with some years reaching as high as $16 million.

A key discussion point was the necessity of issuing bonds to finance these projects, with officials considering options for a bond ranging from $10 million to $20 million. The city’s current revenue is insufficient to cover the projected expenses, prompting the need for a strategic financial plan to avoid going into the negative.

Several ongoing projects were mentioned, including the Cheney Woods and 2019 interceptor projects, which are already in progress. Additionally, the water and sewer assessment zone is set to commence construction soon, addressing immediate infrastructure needs. The Fergus Road interceptor, currently under design, is critical due to recent overflows during rain events, highlighting the urgency of repairs.

The meeting also touched on the Waldron Road sewer assessment zone, where a developer has contributed to sewer costs, and discussions are ongoing about how to legally structure future assessments. The city is exploring the possibility of implementing impact fees to ensure that new homeowners contribute to necessary improvements.

Officials emphasized the importance of updating the sewer system master plan to identify areas at capacity and ensure compliance with contractual obligations to Metro regarding sewer flow rates. This proactive approach aims to mitigate overages and maintain efficient service.

In addition to sewer projects, water infrastructure improvements were discussed, including the completion of a 24-inch water line and plans for a new storage tank at Sanford Knob to accommodate growth in the area. The city is also considering emergency connections with neighboring Smyrna and Metro to enhance reliability during incidents.

As La Vergne moves forward, the decisions made in this budget workshop will play a crucial role in shaping the city’s infrastructure capabilities and ensuring that essential services meet the needs of its growing population.