Cobb & Douglas Public Health (CDPH) has recently rolled out a support program designed to assist low-income homeowners with septic system maintenance, including pumping and necessary repairs. The initiative is backed by American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) grants from the Cobb County and Douglas County governments. The goal is to bolster both environmental health and community welfare by ensuring proper septic system function, which is crucial in preventing system failures and protecting water quality, as detailed by CDPH News.
The project is set to provide a financial lift for primary homeowners who meet the income requirement, defined as a household income at or below 185% of the current year’s Federal Poverty Level. For a household of four in 2025, this equates to an income of $57,720 or less. Those who qualify can expect to receive up to $500 to help defray the cost of pumping their septic tanks. Moreover, should an inspection reveal the need for more extensive work, up to $15,000 is available to either repair the system or hook the residence up to a local sewer. Funding for these subsidies will be issued directly to certified service providers, as per CDPH.
To apply, homeowners should visit the Septic Project web page, complete an application, and await income eligibility confirmation. After this, an Environmental Health Specialist will reach out to schedule a visit and discuss service needs and contractor options. The CDPH emphasizes the importance of keeping septic systems in check to avoid malfunctions which can lead to environmental hazards and excessive costs for the homeowners.
"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," said Dr. Janet Memark, CDPH District Health Director, in a statement detailing the project's objectives. Services covered by the initiative must be performed between March 26 and December 31, in Douglas, and until September 30, 2026, in Cobb—or until the allocated grant funds are depleted, as noted by the CDPH News.
For additional information on this environmental health initiative or to inquire further about the program, potential applicants are encouraged to email the CDPH at [email protected] or to make a call to 770-435-7815.
