BROADCAST TRANSCRIPT:

“We have been looking forward to the possibility of a wastewater treatment plant in the town for years,” said LaDonna Reyna, a longtime Bruceville-Eddy resident.

After decades of planning, City of Bruceville-Eddy construction crews are beginning work to solve a persistent problem.

Marc Monroy, KXXV

LaDonna is one of our neighbors who has witnessed the negative effects of old septic tanks and the lack of a proper sewage system in our community.

“One of the problems we’ve had in the past due to heavy rains is that our system, especially in this part of the city, gets overwhelmed, which dumps sewage into our streets,” Reyna said.

This project is one of the largest in the city’s history, costing nearly $19 million.

• The entire project, which is expected to last a year, will cost approximately $19 million.
• $9.4 million comes from loans, $8.9 million from a USDA grant and $972,000 from the city.
• This plan has been in the works for decades.

Money to cover these costs comes from grants, loans and the city.

“We really need it, and if we don’t do it, we won’t grow, and Waco and Temple will continue to come to our city,” said Bruceville-Eddy Mayor Linda Owens.

This project has been on the minds of residents for years.

However, several factors have hampered progress, including elections and the wait for funding approvals.

“This was built on the backs of previous councils and all of our citizens since this is something they asked for,” said City Administrator Kent Manton.

“I know there is a lot of shock and disbelief about this,”

Marc Monroy, KXXV

Now that the plan is in action, you can expect more traffic delays and possibly increased water rates.

“I’m OK with raising water rates just because it’s an investment,” Reyna said.

But for LaDonna, it’s all part of a plan for the future.

“There is a short-term downside because it’s inconvenient – ​​it’s dirty and noisy, but ultimately there will be a benefit for years to come,” Reyna said.

Water fee increase in effect:

Minimum monthly fee for sewer service, including 0 gallon

• 3/4″ or 5/8″ meter — $71.44
• 1″ Meter (2.% — $104.41
• 1 1/2″ (5) — $157.57
• Meter 2″ (8) — $256.74
• 3″ meter (15) — $394.42

Fee per 1,000 GALLONS

• 1st 1,000 gallons — $7.00
• 2nd 1,000 gallons — $8.00
• 3rd 1,000 gallons – $9.00
• 4th 1,000 gallons – $10.00
• 5th 1,000 gallons – $11.00
• 6th 1,000 gallons – $12.00
• Remaining — $12.00
• Faucet fee: $3,000