Etowah Sewer System Customers
Henderson County recently purchased the Etowah Sewer System.
The Henderson County Board of Commissioners are asking residents to serve on the Etowah Sewer Advisory Committee. Please review the Committee Bylaws. If interested, fill out a committee application.
Customers might have questions about how this transition will affect their service, billing, and other aspects. Here’s some frequently asked questions that could address common concerns:
Etowah Sewer System Customer FAQ
1. Why did Henderson County purchase the Etowah Sewer System?
Henderson County purchased the Etowah Sewer System to improve and expand the county's infrastructure, ensuring reliable and cost-effective wastewater services for current and future residents and have a positive impact on the area’s water quality.
2. Will my sewer service be interrupted during the transition?
No, there should be no interruption in your sewer service during the transition. Henderson County is committed to maintaining seamless service throughout the process.
3. Will my sewer rates change?
Initially, your sewer rates will remain the same. Any future changes to rates will be communicated well in advance, with opportunities for public input, and will be based on the system's operational costs and required investments into the sewer system.
4. How will billing be handled?
We are working with the City of Hendersonville to continue providing billing services so there are no changes from the customers point of view. Any changes in billing procedures or contact information will be communicated to you with clear instructions.
5. Who do I contact for customer services issues, like line issues or problems?
Customers should continue to contact the City of Hendersonville’s Customer Service department at 828-697-3052 or visit www.hvlnc.gov.
6. Will there be any changes to the terms of service?
There may be updates to the terms of service to align with Henderson County's policies and regulations. You will be notified of any changes well in advance.
7. What improvements can I expect with Henderson County's management?
Henderson County plans to invest in in the system to address compliance deficits with our permit to operate from the State as well as any deferred maintenance projects. Note, the sewer system will be financially separate from the County’s general fund; the sewer rates pay for the system expenses not property tax revenue. The County will conduct a system analysis to map and assess the system to develop any needed project for compliance and system operations. Then perform a rate analysis to determine appropriate rates to pay for the operation and projects. As with any public sewer system, the system rate will not pay to expand the system. Expansion costs fall on the entity that is applying for sewer service or existing customers rates pay for the operation of the system. New customers will pay for the expansion of the system and then pay for operations once they are customers.
8. How will this affect new service connections or expansions?
New service connections and expansions will follow guidelines set by the Henderson County Board of Commissioners. The county will streamline the process and provide information on any changes to procedures or fees.
