Paulding County moves to limit wastewater liabilities, approves water tank rehab

Paulding County moves to limit wastewater liabilities, approves water tank rehabThe Board of Commissioners approved a development agreement to avoid taking ownership of a private pump station, alongside contracts for water tank maintenance and PFAS litigation.

Commissioners approved an agreement ensuring the county will not assume responsibility for an existing private pump station tied to Gradle Pharmacy LLC.

Utility Service Group Water Solutions, LLC secured a $161,894 contract for the exterior painting of the Ship Road Water Tank.

The board engaged Arnold & Itkin LLP for potential PFAS litigation concerning county landfills.

Paulding County, Georgia, is taking steps to limit its exposure to long-term wastewater infrastructure liabilities while advancing routine maintenance of its drinking water assets. During the April 14, 2026, Board of Commissioners meeting, officials unanimously approved a development agreement with Gradle Pharmacy LLC. The agreement explicitly ensures that the county will not receive or assume maintenance responsibilities for an existing private pump station located in Post 1. The move highlights the county's strategy of avoiding the long-term operational and financial burdens associated with adopting private wastewater collection assets. In addition to limiting new wastewater liabilities, the board authorized capital expenditures to preserve existing drinking water infrastructure. Commissioners awarded a construction services contract to Utility Service Group Water Solutions, LLC for the exterior painting of the Ship Road Water Tank. The contract, capped at $161,894, will be financed through the county's Renewal and Extension Fund. Furthermore, the county is preparing to address emerging environmental liabilities related to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). The board authorized the chairman to execute an attorney engagement agreement with Arnold & Itkin LLP. The legal team will represent Paulding County in potential PFAS litigation concerning the county's landfills, a proactive measure as local governments nationwide grapple with the financial impacts of PFAS contamination. All water and environmental items were approved without opposition during the meeting's regular business segments.