Elizabethtown Water Utility announces $54M regional transmission line project and customer service upgrades

The Hardin County Fiscal Court meeting on March 11, 2025, focused on significant updates regarding local water utility operations and infrastructure projects. Key discussions included recent rate adjustments, ongoing projects, and future plans aimed at improving water service delivery in the region.

During the meeting, officials reported a recent increase in water rates, which saw a minimum bill for 2,000 gallons rise by $2.95, and an average bill for 4,000 gallons increase by $4.55. Overall, this adjustment resulted in an approximate 16% increase in rates, although some non-recurring fees were decreased by the Public Service Commission. The current outstanding debt for the water utility stands at nearly $12 million, with a customer base of just under 31,000 connections, serving about 83,000 residents—approximately 70% of Hardin County's population.

The meeting highlighted the utility's performance in managing leaks, with 220 service line leaks and 111 water main leaks reported last year. This performance is considered excellent, as it falls below the American Water Works Association's standard of 15 breaks per 100 miles of water line. The utility operates around 1,100 miles of water main, indicating effective maintenance and management.

Several infrastructure projects were discussed, including the construction of a new hydration tank and a downtown water tank, both of which are expected to enhance service capacity. The hydration tank project is estimated to cost over $9 million, while the downtown tank will feature a logo requested by the local school board. Additionally, plans to extend water lines to unserved areas were outlined, aiming to increase service coverage from 96.9% to 97.7%.

The meeting concluded with a call for funding assistance for a significant regional transmission main project, which aims to improve water supply reliability and capacity. The project is projected to cost around $54 million, and officials expressed a need for support in securing the necessary funding.

Overall, the meeting underscored the ongoing efforts of Hardin County's water utility to enhance service delivery, manage infrastructure effectively, and address the needs of a growing population.