Bill > HB1957

This bill authorizes the Bolivar County Board of Supervisors to create a utility district in the Choctaw community to address ongoing issues with the local sewer system. The bill defines key terms, including the "system" which encompasses the existing sewer facilities like lift stations, treatment lagoons, and pipes. The county board is empowered to use general funds and apply for grants to repair and improve the sewer system, either through county employees or by contracting with third parties. Upon determining that the system needs significant improvements, the board can create a utility district with 3-5 commissioners appointed for initial two-year terms, followed by five-year terms. The new utility district will have exclusive authority to operate, maintain, and improve the sewer system, with powers including contracting for services and collecting delinquent sewer fees by potentially coordinating with water associations to shut off water service for customers who are 60 days or more behind on sewer payments. The board of supervisors can transfer relevant assets, lands, and properties to the new utility district, and the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) will be requested to remove the county from any existing environmental permits related to the system. The bill is designed to create a more formal and efficient management structure for the Choctaw community's sewer infrastructure.

Government Affairs

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2025/pdf/history/HB/HB1957.xml