CEDAR BLUFF, Ala.– The Cedar Bluff Utilities Board held a special called meeting Thursday, February 12th, to take action on a major water infrastructure project.
During the meeting, board members voted unanimously to move forward with financing for a new water tower through the Alabama Department of Environmental Management State Revolving Fund Participating Match program.
Although often referred to as a grant, the funding structure includes 40 percent principal forgiveness, with the remaining 60 percent to be financed. Board members discussed the importance of using the correct terminology in the official minutes.
Board member and Cedar Bluff Mayor Bill Warren outlined repayment estimates, explaining that in a worst-case scenario, payments would total approximately $10,301 per month over 20 years at a 2.75 percent interest rate. Warren said the utility system could handle that obligation if necessary, though the board is confident additional matching funds will reduce the town’s share.
Treasurer Linda Pickelsimer confirmed the financial figures and noted the interest rate itself is favorable, even as board members continue working to lower the overall cost through additional funding.
Officials plan to seek further assistance through Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs, along with outreach to Mike Rogers and U.S. Senators Katie Britt and Tommy Tuberville. The board’s goal is to potentially secure up to an 80 percent match, leaving the utility responsible for just 20 percent of the project cost.
The approved project includes construction of a new water tower and a pump station. Replacement of certain water mains was removed from this funding request and may be pursued later through a separate application.
Board members described the project as a once-in-a-lifetime investment in Cedar Bluff’s future, citing improved water pressure, increased capacity, and long-term reliability. They also credited Wagner Engineering for revising the application and helping the town qualify for funding consideration.
The motion to proceed passed unanimously.
If approved at the state level and completed as planned, officials say the new water tower will serve Cedar Bluff residents for generations to come.
