By JEFFERSON WEAVER
Staff Writer

Work will begin soon on a state-ordered cleanup of Chadbourn’s sewer system rights-of-way.

The Town Council Tuesday approved a spending limit of $10,000 to mow, bush-hog and clear sewer rights-of-way the State Department of Natural Resources says are in violation.

Town Manager Dottie Thomas explained that the state is cracking down on overgrown rights-of-way, which can make it difficult to test lines or make repairs. Tree roots can also extend down into sewer lines, causing breaks that result in spills. Overgrown entrances to storm sewers can prevent storm runoff from draining, resulting in standing water and even flooding.

According to state law, failure to correct right-of-way clearing violations can cost thousands of dollars per day in fines.

“We have some places that need some serious work,” Thomas said.

Public Works Director Mike Foss explained that at least one timber company has expressed interest in removing larger trees from the easements at no cost, in exchange for the trees. The town will contract with a mulching and clearing firm to remove and break down the remaining vegetation. Heavy brush-cutters capable of removing and mulching medium-size trees generally cost $125 per hour to operate.

The nature of the project prohibits determining an actual cost before the work is begun, Thomas said.

“The contractor won’t know what he’s facing until he gets in there and gets to work,” she said.
Thomas explained that while the expense wasn’t budgeted, the board could put a spending cap on the project, and closely monitor the actual hours equipment is used.

“We won’t have the machine sitting idle for four hours and us paying for it,” Foss explained. “We’ll be paying for runtime, not downtime.”

Much of the clearing work can be handled using town workers, chainsaw and hand tools, Thomas said.

Councilman Larry Williamson said he would be glad to see the project.

“There’s a place on Blake Street that especially concerns me,” he said.

Thomas said work could begin immediately.

“We have to take advantage of the cold weather,” she said. Come spring, the cost would rise dramatically.”

The request passed unanimously on a motion by Councilman Fax Rector, with a second by Brian Edwards.

Mayor Kenneth Waddell admonished Foss and Thomas.

“This emphasizes how important mowing and clearing is,” he said. “I hope we don’t have this happen again.”