Trezevant Approves Wastewater System Improvements

TREZEVANT (August 12) — City officials in Trezevant approved two bids to enhance the city’s wastewater systems during the mayor and council meeting on August 12.

David Smith from A2H Engineering presented proposals to improve the wastewater lagoon and to reduce rainwater infiltration into the city’s sewer system. The city has unused grant funds from the federal government through the American Rescue Plan, which will cover the entire cost of the two projects.

Grinder Taber and Grinder of Memphis will install aerators at the wastewater lagoon to decrease the discharge of nitrogen and phosphorus, costing $511,114. Meanwhile, Sun Coast Infrastructure from Florence, Mississippi, will provide cured-in-place lining for 1,800 feet of sewer line and replace two manholes for a total price of $168,177. Both projects are expected to be completed in the first half of 2026.

Erik Grimes, the city’s water superintendent, reported that the city experiences approximately 41 percent “water loss,” which is the difference between the amount of water pumped and the amount recorded at the customer’s water meter. The city’s aging water meters could be replaced with newer, more accurate, electronic models through a grant. Grimes noted that Smith informed him about a possible grant for replacing more than 200 meters in the city. If awarded, the new meters will report customers’ usage electronically, reducing the need for manual readings.

For months, residents have expressed concerns about the condition of city sidewalks. City employees are currently repairing sidewalks along East Main Street and will then move on to Broad Street for further repairs.

Councilman Leon Lyell reported that the fire department’s van is inoperable and needs to be replaced. Councilman Don Barger mentioned that the police department now employs three part-time officers who work different shifts; all three also serve as full-time officers in McKenzie.