Tarpon seeks grant for new sewers

The city would use the federal money to expand the sewer and reclaimed water systems, and to improve the stormwater system.

By KATHERINE GAZELLA
© St. Petersburg Times,
published November 24, 2001

TARPON SPRINGS -- With the help of U.S. Rep. Mike Bilirakis, Tarpon Springs officials are trying to secure up to $1-million in federal money to install new sewers and repair the city's aging infrastructure.

The funding was not included in a recent Veteran's Affairs and Housing and Urban Development bill as the city initially had hoped, Bilirakis said. But he said it could be included in other appropriations bills, possibly including an upcoming transportation spending bill.

He said the city might not get the entire $1-million all at once, but he will try to secure some of the money during the current fiscal year so the city can get started on some projects.

"I'm confident that by the time they reach the point where they're going to distribute the money, they will have that portion of the money," said Bilirakis, R-Tarpon Springs.

The money would be used for expansion of the city sewer and reclaimed water systems, and for improvements to the stormwater system and water treatment plant, said Paul Smith, the city's public services administrator.

The city has identified more than $4-million it needs for capital projects and another $10-million to install and repair sewer systems. Nearly 30 percent of the city still is not hooked up to the city sewer system, he said.

"This is our first year of trying for this, and we're hoping that they'll see we have a real need," Smith said.

A letter from County Commissioner Karen Seel to Bilirakis pointed out that the city is faced with "unique challenges," particularly because it is the oldest city in Pinellas County.

Tarpon Springs Mayor Frank DiDonato said the city needs to replace old clay pipes and make other improvements soon.

"We have to do it before it becomes a problem," he said.

He said the city is looking at several funding sources, including the state, county and federal governments. He also said he understands the difficulty of getting funding in belt-tightening times.

"Unfortunately for us right now, everybody is cutting back on their budgets," DiDonato said.

Given the tight economy and the needs for war spending, Bilirakis said, this is a hard time to secure money for anything. But he said he is hopeful that the city will get at least a portion of the funding it wants this year.

"It is harder, there's no question about it," he said. "They may not get all the $1-million in a chunk ... but we're going to make every effort."

- Staff writer Katherine Gazella can be reached at (727) 445-4182 or gazella@sptimes.com.

© 2006 • All Rights Reserved • Tampa Bay Times
490 First Avenue South • St. Petersburg, FL 33701 • 727-893-8111

Contact the Times | Privacy Policy
Standard of Accuracy | Terms, Conditions & Copyright