In an effort to support low-income households with essential home maintenance, Cobb & Douglas Public Health (CDPH) has initiated a new project focused on septic system upkeep. This development aims to provide funds to income-qualified residents for the pumping, repairing, or connection to local sewer systems of their septic systems. The project is funded through American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) grants from the governments of Cobb County and Douglas County. As reported by Cobb County's official news release, the initiative will offer subsidies up to $500 for septic tank pumping and potentially up to $15,000 for repairs or sewer connections.
Dr. Janet Memark, CDPH District Health Director, emphasized the project's role in promoting environmental health and protecting water quality. "This project not only provides financial relief for homeowners who may be struggling financially but also emphasizes the importance of maintaining septic systems to prevent environmental contamination," Dr. Memark explained, according to the news release from Cobb County. The program is designed not only to alleviate the immediate financial burden but also to address the broader issue of environmental hazards posed by neglected septic systems – acknowledging that regular maintenance, typically needed every 3-5 years, is a crucial aspect of environmental stewardship that low-income homeowners might struggle with.
Qualification for the project is based on household income, which must be at or below 185% of the Federal Poverty Level, adjusted per household size. For example, in 2025 a family of four should earn no more than $57,720 to be eligible for the program. Rental and commercial properties are excluded from eligibility. CDPH is coordinating with certified service providers to ensure repairs and maintenance meet state and local requirements, securing the best outcome for the community and environment. Homeowners who wish to take advantage of the Low-Income Septic System Pump/Repair Project should visit the program's web page to learn more and complete an application. Once income eligibility is verified, an Environmental Health Specialist is scheduled for a house visit, who will help in determining the necessary service and looking over contractor options.
The time frame for eligible services extends from March 26, 2025, to December 31, 2025, in Douglas County, and until September 30, 2026, in Cobb County, or until the allocated grant funds are spent. For those in need of further information, CDPH has provided contact via email at [email protected], or by phone at 770-435-7815. Ensuring the proper function of septic systems is not only about the individual households but resonates with the communal effort to nurture a healthier and cleaner environment, reducing health risks for everyone involved.
