After approving a sewer line extension for the construction of a single-family residence on Edlin Street just over the state line, the Guthrie City Council voted Tuesday evening to approve a 9-month ban on any additional extensions in Tennessee.
The council has approved as many as 10 new extensions on a case-by-case basis in the last several months, adding strain to the city’s already over-capacity sewer system.
Council Member Russ Longhurst told the council that the 9-month ban is necessary for the city.
The ban can be lifted once the city’s interim wastewater treatment plant is in place and operational.
Julie Florez, Vice President of McGhee Engineering, told the council that the Kentucky Division of Water has approved the city’s interim wastewater plant.
The interim plant will expand sewer capacity to 403,000 gallons daily and get the city in compliance with the state.
Florez added that the interim plant will allow for the council to approve any additional sewer line extensions.
Police Chief Dean Blumel told the council that the city’s police department will soon undergo its state audit.
The audit is conducted every three years by the Kentucky League of Cities and looks at the department’s policies, equipment, and training requirements.
The department’s proficiency rating three years ago was 86.49%, resulting in a 12% discount on the city’s insurance.
Blumel said he expects this year’s rating to be over 90%.
