Crisis Hits Old Union Water System: Missing Meters and Outdated Infrastructure Threaten Service

Written with artificial intelligence assistance.

According to the Daily Journal, an aging water system serving parts of Lee, Monroe, Chickasaw, and Pontotoc counties is facing a critical situation, with officials citing insufficient support as a key issue. The Old Union Water System, established in the early 1970s, is grappling with numerous challenges, including missing meters and inadequate infrastructure.

According to State Rep. Rickey Thompson, who also serves as vice president of the utility system’s board, about 300 of the system's roughly 1,450 meters are unaccounted for. The absence of a map detailing meter locations, compounded by the retirement of the system's former manager, has exacerbated the problem. The previous manager took crucial system knowledge and equipment with him, leaving the system without essential documentation.

The missing meters have led to significant water loss and revenue shortfalls. Although the exact financial impact is unclear, Thompson indicated that recovering and mapping the missing meters is a top priority. "We need a lot of things to be up to par as a water system,” Thompson said. “We just want to get the infrastructure in place for the next generation.”

Compounding the issue, homeowners and developers are reportedly connecting multiple dwellings to single meters, further straining the system and raising health and safety concerns. In response, Thompson and Union Water System board member Steve Hersey have sought support from the Lee County Board of Supervisors to impose stricter regulations on meter usage and explore funding options.

water towerPhoto byDaily Journal

While the system remains profitable, it faces operational challenges due to its reliance on contract workers for maintenance and repairs, rather than having in-house staff and equipment. Thompson and Hersey are calling for more support to acquire necessary equipment and improve infrastructure.

Lee County Board of Supervisors attorney Gary Carnathan noted that regulations will be updated to ensure fair billing and compliance, and emphasized that the county is working to address issues related to housing permits and utility connections. However, Carnathan clarified that the county would not purchase equipment for the water system directly, focusing instead on tightening regulations and enforcing unpaid bills.

County Administrator Ronnie Bell highlighted that the county’s remaining $5 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds is largely earmarked for specific projects, leaving about $1.2 million in unobligated funds. Bell acknowledged the challenge of equitably distributing funds among the county's 11 water districts but did not commit to allocating ARPA funds to the Old Union Water System.

As officials continue to address these pressing issues, the Old Union Water System faces an uphill battle in restoring its infrastructure and ensuring reliable service for its residents.