By Danielle Skinner
FALLS COUNTY--From damaged sewer systems, to leaking pipes, the city of Marlin, 30 miles Southeast of Waco, faces a wide array of water system issues.
On Tuesday city officials voted on a $5.9 million loan that will help solve some of their water woes.
The Mayor of Marlin, Elizabeth Nelson told says their water isn't contaminated. It's their pipes that's giving them problems. Council members unanimously approved that loan.
The city has several leaks in their sewer system due to their outdated pipes. They date back to the 1800's, and they're not only causing leaks, the water is discolored and has an odor.
"We loose 47 percent of our water, and we don't know where it's going," said Mayor Nelson. "This is really necessary to provide the right service for our citizens. It's not going to replace all our water or sewer lines but it will help us identify where the need is the most. "
The $5.9 million loan is divided up. $3 million of it will fund drinking water system improvements. The rest will go towards sewer system improvements. The city will not have to pay back $1.2 million of the loan because of a forgiveness agreement that was reached.
Marlin City officials are very concerned about how to pay back the loan. The city's financial advisor assured the council that a bond and scheduled payments will kick-in when the money is due.
