Council Authorizes Lease-Purchase in Newberry

By Elyssa Haven | August 20, 2024

Newberry’s Latest Approval: A Vacuum Truck for Wastewater Management

In an effort to enhance wastewater management, the Newberry City Council authorized the **second and final reading of an important ordinance** last Thursday. This move paves the way for the **lease-purchase of a vacuum truck** that will significantly aid the city’s wastewater operations. According to Mayor Foster Senn, this truck is a necessary addition for maintaining the wastewater infrastructure.

The principal amount for this lease-purchase agreement is set not to exceed **$550,000**. Financing will occur at an interest rate of **4.59%** over a term not exceeding four years. Councilperson Lemont Glasgow made the motion to approve the first reading, which was then seconded by Councilperson Jackie Holmes.

Authorization to Transfer Funds for a Sewer Line Upgrade

In addition to the vacuum truck authorization, the council also approved a request to transfer up to **$3,500,000** from the city’s rate stabilization fund account to the gross revenue checking account. City Manager Jason Taylor explained this request was driven by the need to provide matching funds for a **South Carolina Rural Infrastructure Authority grant** through the South Carolina Infrastructure Investment Program (**SCIIP**).

The city has successfully secured **$10 million**, which is the maximum grant amount available, requiring a **$2.5 million match** from the city. Although these funds were previously authorized in the budget, an official transfer needed the council’s green light due to the timelines connected with the grant.

The allocated funds will be used to upgrade two sewer line intersections within city limits. “We have to have the project bid out by December of this year, with the project completed by December 31, 2026,” Taylor explained. He also mentioned that some of these sewer lines, dating back to 1977, have surpassed their lifespan and require immediate attention.

To make the situation more pressing, a portion of the sewer line near Belfast Road recently failed, costing the city **$750,000**, with another **$200,000** yet to be paid. These expenditures contribute to the **$3,500,000** needed for the overall upgrade.

Next Steps and Upcoming Meetings

The motion to approve the transfer request was made by Councilperson Carlton Kinard and seconded by Councilperson Edwin Wicker. City Council will reconvene for their next meeting on **Tuesday, September 10 at 7 p.m.**

Stay tuned for more updates on Newberry’s ongoing projects and initiatives!

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Posted under: **City Council, Infrastructure, Local Government**