‘Why has this become such a money pit?’: Commissioner questions costs as Three Rivers approves additional funds for wastewater treatment repairs
Superintendent Taylor Davis said the latest funding request covers standard operational costs.
The Three Rivers City Commission on Tuesday approved an additional $40,000 to fund repairs at the city’s wastewater treatment plant, prompting concerns over ongoing maintenance costs.
“Why has this become such a money pit?” First District Commissioner Pat Dane asked during the meeting.
Superintendent Taylor Davis explained that while previous expenditures focused on specific projects — such as installing pump stations and pre-screening infrastructure — this latest funding request covers standard operational costs.
“I’m trying to do my best to avoid quick fixes and instead make lasting repairs,” Davis said. “It might cost more upfront, but the goal is to extend the lifespan of equipment and reduce ongoing expenses.”
Mayor Tom Lowry acknowledged that the wastewater treatment plant is one of the city’s largest expenditures but emphasized that the costs remain within budget. “It’s an expensive system to run,” he said.
The commission also authorized the city’s grant writer to apply for multiple grants to fund projects benefiting residents and downtown infrastructure.
The city is seeking a $400,000 Community Development Block Grant to support energy efficiency upgrades for homeowners. Another $50,000 grant would fund infrastructure improvements downtown, including staging and sound system enhancements to promote live music events. Additionally, Three Rivers will apply for a $1.79 million grant to help fund the development of a downtown amphitheater.
“The idea is to create opportunities for local businesses and residents,” said city grant writer Jean Thompson-Sheltrown. “Even if we don’t receive the grant, we’re still committed to moving forward with these initiatives.”
In other business, the commission approved a $14,375 repair for a water main break at the base of the city’s water tower, approved a new dentistry on Spring Street, and appointed Andy Goldberg to the zoning board of appeals.
Najifa Farhat is a staff reporter for Watershed Voice.
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