Tippecanoe-Chapman Sewer District board members Kim Hathaway, left, and Jacob Yahne discuss work on the East Webster sewer expansion project. Photo by Maksym Hart.

By Maksym Hart
InkFreeNews

NORTH WEBSTER — The Tippecanoe and Chapman Regional Sewer District Board continued to make headway on the East Webster sewer expansion during its Monday, Nov. 10 meeting at the North Webster Community Center, with final design, financing, and contractor negotiations advancing toward early 2026 construction.

Engineering firm, Jones Petrie Rafinski, reported that design work on this is now approximately 25% complete, with topographic surveys at 95% and preliminary engineering and design finalized.

Project engineer, Steve Henschen, said the district and its build-operate-transfer contractor, Selge Construction, are in the midst of pricing negotiations and expect to review Selge’s preliminary cost proposal by Tuesday, Nov. 18.

“Their initial pricing will give us a chance to see how we’re tracking against budget,” Henschen said. “From there, we’ll refine the numbers and prepare for a public hearing on the B.O.T. contract around January.”

That hearing would coincide with the district’s January meeting, allowing time for final approval of contract terms and a rate introduction before spring. The board’s goal is to reach a financing close by March, enabling construction to begin in April 2026.

SRF, BAN Funding Progress

Financial consultant, Jeff Rowe of Baker Tilly, confirmed the district’s 2023-24 audit has been officially accepted, clearing the way for State Revolving Fund loan approval.

He reported that the district successfully closed on its bond anticipation note the previous Friday, Nov. 7, ensuring interim funding for upcoming design and legal costs tied to East Webster.

“We’re in good shape now that the BAN has closed,” Rowe said. “Our next step is to coordinate with SRF and finalize their bond closing timeline. The goal is still a March closing to keep the project on schedule.”

The SRF will serve as the district’s primary funding source for East Webster’s construction. Rowe noted that communication with SRF and legal counsel Ice Miller is ongoing to finalize the closing timeline and ensure compliance with federal and state financing requirements.

Knapp Lake Agreement Nearing Approval

In preparation for the East Webster expansion, the district has also been working with the Knapp Lake Regional Sewer District to establish an interlocal agreement, which would secure treatment capacity and clarify financial obligations.

Board member Jacob Yahne said the agreement is nearing completion, with a $20,000 contribution proposed to offset Knapp Lake’s administrative and legal costs.

“They’re voting on it this week,” Yahne said. “If it’s approved, we should be ready to finalize the interlocal by next month.”

Public Engagement, Timeline

The district announced a public information meeting for East Webster residents at 9 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 15, at NWCC providing updates on easement packets, design details, and the upcoming construction schedule.

As of the November meeting, JPR anticipates the district will finalize contract pricing in December, introduce the financing ordinance in January, and issue the “notice to proceed” in April 2026. Customer connections are still projected for mid-2027.

“Our main focus is keeping East Webster on track without needing special meetings or delays,” Henschen said. “Everything is aligning well for the January public hearing and March financial close.”

The board’s next meeting will be held at 6:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 8 in the NWCC.