To serve you better, we've assembled a list of our customers' most frequently asked questions. If you don't find your answer here, feel free to contact us.
Why do I need to start paying sewer bills if I’m already on a septic system?
Due to the human waste leakage from failing septic systems in Wells County, existing septic infrastructure must be updated. Homes that have failed septic systems pose a health threat to homeowners and are grounds for condemning by the Indiana Department of Health. A sanitary sewer system installed in parts of Wells County would require residents to pay a sewer bill, but would save them each from paying over $15,000 to replace their septic systems while eliminating the health and environmental risk of leaked sewage.
What is the scope of the sewage problem in Wells County?
The Health Department discovered that only 4 of the 87 properties in Murray and only 5 of the 122 properties in Liberty Center project had septic permits on file. Most unincorporated areas within Wells County like Craigville, Kingsland and Tocsin have a similar lack of approvals. As a result of aging and improperly maintained septic systems, dangerous levels of e. Coli and leaked sewage have been detected in Liberty Center, Murray, public ditches and drains.
What is the alternative solution to the sewage management issues in Wells County?
Replacing individual septic systems is the only other option. However, this solution would be short-lived and expensive to homeowners for the following reasons:
- Minimum lot size must be met and most homeowners do not have the space required for on-site septic
- Appropriate soil types required
- Installation cost per homeowner $13,000 – $20,000+ and maintenance costs
Why is a sanitary sewer system the best solution to failing septic systems?
- Sewer systems can withstand heavy loads and storm surges that overwhelm individual home systems
- Increased property value and reduced maintenance costs
- Removes challenges in obtaining building permits
- Greatly reduces risk of the spread of diseases and pathogens into nearby drinking water wells
- Does not rely on soil filtration for wastewater treatment
Where can I find more information on private sewer installation specifications?
You can view and download our private lateral specifications here.
*NOTICE* Private lateral installations must follow this specification. All private lateral connections to the WCRSD sewer system must be inspected by the WCRSD superintendent or delegate prior to covering.
Why do I have a previous balance when I know I sent in my payment?
We may have received it after the due date or we may not have received it at all. Call our office and we will help you solve the problem.
Why do I need to pay an interim rate bill when I'm not connected to the sewer?
As part of the rate ordinance, the WCRSD has agreed to financing terms with the Indiana State Revolving Fund (SRF) that requires the sewer district to charge the debt service portion ($35/month) of the utility rate from project inception through completion when a notice to connect is sent out to homeowners. This debt service fee covers funding obligations during project construction. Once the notice to connect is sent out, homeowners will then be charged the full monthly rate ($95/month). Full details of the active rate ordinance can be found here.
