Gwinnet Water Authority issues new bonds

Lawrenceville, Ga., (July 15, 2008) – Continuing improvements to Gwinnett’s water and sewer system will be financed with $190 million in Water and Sewerage Authority revenue bonds to be issued on Aug. 6, after approval by the Board of Commissioners on Tuesday.

   Among the projects being funded are improvements to the Yellow River and Crooked Creek water reclamation facilities, a new pipeline for drinking water from the Shoal Creek filter plant and construction of a reuse water pipeline to Lake Lanier. The proceeds will also fund upgrades at four pump stations and construction of new force mains to provide sewer service in some southern parts of the county.

   Maria Woods of the County’s Financial Services department said the Series 2008 bonds would bear interest at a rate not exceeding 5.25 percent and maximum debt service would not exceed $17.4 million per year. The Authority approved the bond issue at its meeting on Monday.

   “The improvements being made are part of our master plan to consolidate facilities and improve the efficiency and environmental impact of our operations,” said Lynn Smarr of the Water Resources department. The County is shifting most of its sewage treatment to the state-of-the-art F. Wayne Hill Water Reclamation Facility near the Mall of Georgia. Most reclaimed water will be returned to the Chattahoochee River and Lake Lanier.