Lower-income Wake County residents who have septic problems they can't afford to mix might be eligible for government aid to resolve the problem. | Stock Photo
Lower-income Wake County residents who have septic problems they can't afford to mix might be eligible for government aid to resolve the problem. | Stock Photo
A $200,000 two-year pilot program to provide support and needed septic system repairs for older, disabled or low-income residents has gotten the green light in Wake County.
“This program will allow us to help the most vulnerable residents and will help us evaluate just how big the need is so we can develop future programs,” Evan Kane, groundwater manager of Wake County, said in a CBS 17 report.
The county will partner with the Department of Environmental Services and Division of Housing Affordability and Community Revitalization to participate in the program.
Kane said the county frequently sees malfunctioning septic systems that go unfixed due to cost, even after the homeowners have been notified of “their legal responsibility to fix them.”
Residents will need to qualify, with the county having stipulations that applicants must have an income that is less than 50% of the county’s median ($53,500 for a family of four), and “should have a well or septic problem that is a health or safety hazard” in order to take part in the program.
“The health of residents is at risk if their well water quality changes or their septic system is failing,” Wake County Chair Commissioner Sig Hutchinson said. “Every family deserves clean, reliable drinking water and sanitary sewage disposal, regardless of their income.”
To apply, or for more information, residents can visit the Well and Septic Pilot Assistance Fund webpage or call 919-856-7400 for more information.
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