Marion County Utility Department expands water system and sewage upgrades through grants

Marion County officials are gearing up for significant improvements in the region's water infrastructure, with a focus on enhancing water quality and expanding access to public utilities. During a recent workshop, the Board of County Commissioners discussed the Utilities Capital Improvement Program, highlighting the importance of securing high-quality water sources and the ongoing efforts to transition from septic systems to sewer services.

Assistant County Administrator Tracy Straub emphasized the county's commitment to finding the right water sources, stating, "We hope to look for those that have great water quality, and if it doesn't, then we'll just keep searching." This proactive approach aims to ensure that residents have access to safe and reliable water.

The workshop also addressed the ongoing Silver Spring Shores project, which is converting septic systems to sewer services. Phases 1 and 2 are funded and progressing, while the county continues to seek external funding for Phases 3 and 4. Straub reported that approximately 5.25 miles of septic-to-sewer conversions have been completed, benefiting around 500 residents.

In addition to sewer improvements, the county has made strides in expanding its water distribution system. Over the past year, officials reported extending nearly 23 miles of water mains, providing access to over 1,300 additional residents. This expansion is part of a broader strategy to enhance utility services while managing costs effectively.

The discussion also touched on the challenges faced in project delivery, particularly due to workforce shortages in engineering. Despite these hurdles, the county remains optimistic about its capital improvement plans, with no rate increases anticipated for the upcoming fiscal year.

As Marion County continues to prioritize its water infrastructure, residents can expect ongoing updates and improvements aimed at enhancing the quality and accessibility of essential utility services.