Martin County ushers in 2024 with major water infrastructure developments

Saltwell sewer lift station is operating properly. (Citizen photo by Roger Smith)

BY ROGER SMITH
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN

INEZ — Martin County starts 2024 with the operational success of the Saltwell sewer lift station and a major announcement that Gov. Andy Beshear’s proposed state budget includes a substantial allocation for water projects in Martin County.

During a Martin County Water District meeting Thursday, Alliance Water Resources manager Craig Miller revealed that Beshear’s proposed budget included $12 million specifically for Martin County water initiatives.

“That’s not grant funding,” Miller said. “That’s in the budget for Martin County to do water projects.”

Miller revealed the potential of Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet Deputy Secretary John Lyons being the administrator for Martin County.

“I’ve worked with him closely, know him very well, and he will be good to work with,” remarked Miller. “We’ll be able to complete some projects.”

Alliance Water Resources manager Craig Miller (right) reports to the Martin County Water District board in a meeting Thursday. Pictured left to right: Board member Greg Crum, board chairman Jimmy Don Kerr, board member John Paul Hensley and Miller. (Citizen photo)

The manager was informed about the budget funding through direct communication with EEC Secretary Rebecca Goodman’s office.

“I have also had confirmation from other sources who have viewed the budget that the money is a line item,” he stated. 

While final approval of the budget funding rests with the Legislature, Miller remains optimistic.

“I feel pretty confident. We have a lot of people going to bat for us right now,” he said, citing support from State Representative Bobby McCool, Martin County Judge/Executive Lon Lafferty and State Senator Phillip Wheeler. “A lot of people are going to bat for this county and this district.”

Miller also mentioned he spoke with representatives from the Farm Bureau “who want to use their lobbyists to try to help us.”

Saltwell sewer lift

After nearly two years of difficulty with the Saltwell sewer lift station leaking raw sewage into the stream next to State Route 645, Miller confirmed Tuesday, “Saltwell is operating as it should as of Friday.”

The Martin County Fiscal Court played a crucial role by providing the necessary $21,500 for repairs.

Other business

During last week’s meeting, Miller told board members that the water district put its new generator at the water treatment plant to use for the first time during a power outage Nov. 26.

He also reported Boca’s $1.3 million bid on the Collins Creek line replacement project was accepted.

“Collins Creek will have new lines, service lines and meters,” he said.

In a strategic move, Miller recommended the board talk to additional engineering firms.

“Having all your eggs in one basket can lead to a little bit of trouble,” he said.

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