WAYNE COUNTY, N.C. — Local leaders across Wayne County are taking a major step toward improving sewer infrastructure, controlling rising costs, and preparing for future growth through a proposed regional approach.
Wayne County, along with the towns of Goldsboro, Fremont, Pikeville, and Eureka, recently completed a comprehensive sewer system study with assistance from the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality. The $360,000 study, conducted by CDM Smith, examined infrastructure conditions, long-term costs, needed upgrades, and opportunities for collaboration.
The findings highlighted growing challenges facing local governments, particularly smaller municipalities. Aging sewer systems, stricter environmental regulations, and increasing maintenance costs are placing significant strain on budgets. In some areas, limited sewer capacity is already hindering new housing developments, business expansion, and economic growth.
After reviewing more than ten governance models, leaders narrowed their focus to two primary options. The first would create a regional sewer authority, allowing participating communities to share oversight, combine resources, and distribute costs more evenly. Supporters say this model would improve efficiency, expand system capacity, and increase access to state and federal funding.
The second option would place full control of the county’s sewer system under the City of Goldsboro, requiring surrounding towns to connect to its system and operate under the city’s governance structure, including decisions on rates, expansion, and financing.
A regional committee representing each community ultimately voted 3-1 in favor of establishing a regional sewer authority, with Goldsboro casting the lone dissenting vote.
“The majority of the committee supported a regional authority because it gives every participating community a seat at the table and a voice for the future,” said Committee Chair and Commissioner Chris Gurley. “Unfortunately, Goldsboro continues to push for complete control of a countywide sewer system rather than supporting a partnership model that shares governance and responsibility.”
County leaders say the decision is about long-term planning and sustainability, ensuring residents have reliable sewer services while keeping costs manageable and supporting future development.
County Manager Chip Crumpler emphasized the urgency of action. “We cannot afford to keep kicking this can down the road while costs continue to rise,” Crumpler said. “A regional authority is the responsible path forward for our residents, our towns, and the future growth of Wayne County.”
Wayne County Board Chairman Joe Daughtery echoed that sentiment, thanking municipalities, commissioners, and staff for their collaboration through the Greater Wayne Regional Wastewater Committee.
“We believe a true regional approach, where no single city controls the future of wastewater for the entire county, is the best path to create fairness, stability, and long-term opportunity for all residents,” Daughtery said.
Leaders say the effort builds on ongoing cooperation among local governments since 2023 and represents a critical step toward building a stronger, more resilient infrastructure system for the county’s future.
