Manatee County redirected $5 million initially allocated for sewer projects in Tallevast to government payroll, according to a WTSP news report.

Residents in the historic community of Tallevast have been waiting over 40 years for the county to connect them to sewer service. Many residents east of the town’s train tracks still rely on septic tanks that frequently overflow, causing property damage. The community also has a history of groundwater contamination, which heightens concerns about the aging septic systems.

Manatee County received $78 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds following the COVID-19 pandemic. Federal guidelines permitted these funds to be used for water and sewer infrastructure, among other purposes.

County records show that $5 million was initially designated for Tallevast sewer projects, but the funds were later redirected elsewhere. In 2023, commissioners unanimously approved a plan allocating nearly $53 million in ARPA funds to government payroll, including funds intended initially for Tallevast and other projects.

The freed-up funds were redirected to a list of Generational Impact Projects, including the “Light Up Manatee” initiative, which was not on the original ARPA project list. Sewer improvements for Tallevast are not included in the Generational Impact Projects list.

Commissioner Mike Rahn, who represents Tallevast, stated that $5 million would be insufficient to complete all necessary sewer work in the area. He noted the cost could reach millions of dollars and questioned whether the investment would be worthwhile if not all residents connected to the system due to tie-in costs.

Long-time resident Alley Hornes expressed frustration with the situation, saying the community feels neglected by the county. Historical records from 1982 show the county previously applied for federal assistance that included funding for water and sewer upgrades in Tallevast.

With the funding redirected and groundwater contamination ongoing, it remains unclear when sewer service will be provided to the community.

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