Lafferty announces concrete plan for repair

BY ROGER SMITH
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN

INEZ — After enduring more than a year of sewer odor and environmental concerns, residents can look forward to a resolution to the beleaguered Saltwell sewer lift station. Martin County Judge/Executive Lon Lafferty has announced a concrete plan to repair the station responsible for leakage into the creek and distress in the community.

In a statement Tuesday, Lafferty revealed that a partnership between the Fiscal Court and the sewer district had been forged to mend the failing infrastructure at the corner of State Route 645 and Saltwell Road.

“We’ve pushed and pushed and finally got a plan,” Lafferty expressed with evident relief.

The collaboration has produced a written agreement solidifying the commitment to tackle the problem head-on.

The county will pay the $21,000 cost for the project, which covers the new pump, its installation and the accompanying warranty. Lafferty showed confidence in the Fiscal Court’s support, anticipating unanimous approval of the funding.

Sewer district officials, according to Judge Lafferty, expect the repair work to be completed within the coming four weeks. This timeline presents a light at the end of the tunnel for those affected by the year-long ordeal.

“It’s a great thing,” Lafferty said, reflecting on the efforts to address the persistent issue. “Everyone is eager to see the end of this issue.”

The community has been rallying for a solution since the leak began.

“I could not be more tickled,” added the judge.