In a recent meeting of the Michigan Legislature's Appropriations Committee, Rep. Roth brought urgent attention to the dire situation facing the village of Beulah, where a failing sewer system threatens the health and safety of its 380 residents. The committee gathered under the bright lights of the state capitol, ready to discuss critical funding needs, and the conversation quickly turned to the pressing issue of infrastructure.

Rep. Roth outlined the gravity of the situation: the village's sewer system is on the brink of collapse, and without immediate intervention, residents could face monthly costs of $750 for sewer services or be forced to rely on porta potties indefinitely. The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) has issued multiple citations against the village, highlighting the urgency of the repairs needed.

The former village council's negligence in maintaining the system has compounded the problem, but Roth expressed optimism about the new leadership. The incoming village board is actively seeking loans from the USDA to cover half of the estimated $12 million project cost. Roth emphasized the importance of establishing a rigorous maintenance fund to prevent future failures, indicating a willingness to support the village's request for state assistance, contingent on their commitment to responsible management.

"This is one of my top three asks," Roth stated, underscoring the environmental implications of the failing sewer system. He warned that if the situation is not addressed swiftly, it could lead to pollution of the nearby Crystal Lake and its rivers, affecting not just the village but the broader ecosystem.

The committee members engaged with Roth, expressing concern over the village's financial planning and the potential impact of state funding on loan repayments. Roth reassured them that the village is not seeking state funds for administrative costs, as they have already secured a $1.7 million grant from EGLE for engineering and studies related to the project.

As the meeting concluded, the urgency of the situation was palpable. The new village council's proactive approach has garnered confidence from state officials, but the path forward remains fraught with challenges. The fate of Beulah's sewer system hangs in the balance, with the community's health and environmental integrity at stake. The committee's next steps will be crucial in determining whether this small village can secure the necessary funding to restore its vital infrastructure.