08/31/2026
💧 SMITHLAND–LEDBETTER WASTEWATER PROJECT
I want to provide some information about a POSSIBLE Smithland–Ledbetter Wastewater Project that is currently being evaluated.
I emphasize POSSIBLE because no final decision has been made. We are still examining the data, costs, engineering, and long-term benefits. At face value, however, this appears to have the potential to be a very good move for both Smithland and Ledbetter.
âť“ QUESTION: If I live between Smithland and Ledbetter, will I be forced to connect to city sewer?
NO!
Depending on how the project is ultimately designed and which route is selected, connecting to the sewer system may not even be an option for residents along the route.
So, why are we looking at this?
Smithland has serious wastewater infrastructure issues, involving both aging sewer lines and wastewater treatment. Some of the existing system includes older clay sewer pipe. As these pipes crack, break, and deteriorate, groundwater can seep into the sewer system.
That means clean groundwater enters the sewer lines and must then be pumped and treated just like wastewater. This puts additional strain on the system and increases operating costs.
Ledbetter has a different need. Its wastewater system could benefit from additional customers and revenue to help support the long-term operation of the system.
That is why this concept is worth examining.
Instead of looking at the needs of Smithland and Ledbetter separately, we have an opportunity to determine whether a regional approach could benefit BOTH communities.
For Smithland, it could provide a long-term solution to significant wastewater infrastructure and treatment issues.
For Ledbetter, additional customers could provide additional revenue and help strengthen the financial sustainability of its existing wastewater system.
We also have an incredible opportunity to explore this because $6.7 MILLION in state funding has been secured for the project.
That is a significant investment in Livingston County and gives us an opportunity to consider a solution that otherwise may simply not be financially possible.
However, having funding available does not mean we move forward simply because the money is there. The project still has to make sense.
Projects of this size do not happen overnight. They require engineering, planning, cooperation, and a lot of people working toward the same goal. There are still questions to answer, numbers to review, and details to work through before any final decisions are made.
I am extremely appreciative of everyone who has helped us get to this point and especially grateful for the cooperation between Smithland and Ledbetter.
If the numbers, engineering, and long-term benefits make sense, this could be a generational investment in Livingston County's infrastructure and a solution that benefits both communities for decades to come.
We will continue doing our homework, asking questions, and keeping the public informed as we learn more.
If you have questions or concerns about the possible project, please feel free to contact me at my office.
Michael Williams
Livingston County Judge/Executive
