8 Million Dollar Project On The Ballot

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Created on Tuesday, 06 November 2012 15:19
Written by Jessica Walsh

st. j sewerST. JOHNSBURY- As voters head out the the polls this morning in St. Johnsbury, they will be voting for more than just candidates. An 8 million dollar project is on the table that will upgrade the towns current sewer system under it's streets that is in need of dire repair due to its negative effect on the surrounding environment.

The ballot states, "Shall a general obligation bond of no more than 8 million dollars be issues for the purpose of financing the cost of improvements to the sewage systems of Western Avenue, Eastern Avenue and Main Street." The project, if approved, would not only help the sanitary sewer system but the water supply system as well.

The town also is eligible for state funding, so the cost of this project could be lower. The price to upgrade this system has a hefty price tag, but one St. Johnsbury resident says that he sees no other option. "Well something has to be done, the town is growing and that's just the way it is," said Ron Cobb.

Putting off these upgrades however is not an option for the town, as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has ordered to separate all of the combined sewer overflow systems. Right now, the current sewer system is creating a overflow which is affecting rivers and the environment especially when it rains. The untreated sewage leaks into the streets as well through manholes. The St. Johnsbury Selectboard, who put this on the ballot, also says that the pipes will need updating as well, not because they pose an environmental threat, but that the gunk that clogs them might cause blockage. hopes it passes because until it does, the town will not be eligible for federal funding.