Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Laurinburg public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
5 issues in water utilities
Potential electric rate impacts from NCEMPA wholesale rate change
Wholesale electricity costs jumped this year, and the city is moving $300,000 in unused fiber money to cover the power bill so the audit doesn't flag another overage.
Water and sewer capital projects
The city is chasing state money for a ~$9 million sewer rehab of its historic core, where most sewer lines are over 40 years old, plus $9.9 million in water treatment plant work. Contracts were also awarded for the College Park sewer lining and North Main pump station.
City vs. County water system friction
The city manager set the record straight after last week's county commissioners meeting: the county owns and runs its own water system and sets its own rates; the city just sells, bills, and repairs under an interlocal agreement. He also disputed claims that last-minute information caused the county to pull the joint fueling facility from its budget.
After-Hours Utility Reporting Line Complaint
A resident told the council she couldn't reach the city's after-hours utility number during a power outage and found the photo requirement confusing. Staff explained the pictures help crews respond faster and promised to look into her complaint.
Bridge Creek & College Park Sewer Rehabilitation
The council moved $250,000 into the water/sewer capital fund to keep the gravity sewer replacement project on South Main Street moving.