Dover, DE April 24, 2006 – Just two days following Earth Day, observed around the globe on April 22nd, Delaware officials gathered in Kitts Hummock, in the heart of the waterfront community and within footsteps of the Delaware Bay’s shoreline, to recognize federal funding that Kent County Levy Court will receive to extend central sewer to the area residents.

"This is a pristine area that is surrounded by the Delaware Bay, marshland, farmland, and the Ted Harvey Wildlife Area," said Congressman Michael Castle. "It is our responsibility to serve the residents living here and to protect the environment with the resources that we have."

USDA Rural Development is providing a loan to Kent County Levy Court in the amount of $2,289,935 and a grant in the amount of $1,250,000 to provide sewer service to residents living in Kitts Hummock and the Willow Tree Mobile Home Park. Homes in the area have aging septic systems or cesspools, some of which are failing; their homes are located on small lots that do not allow them the capability of installing a new septic system. The area is susceptible to flooding and there are health and sanitary concerns that harmful nutrients could be reaching the Bay.

"This is about improving the quality of life for the residents in the area by ensuring there is a means for safe, sanitary disposal of wastewater that at the same time provides protection for their ground water supply and the natural resources around them," said Marlene Elliott USDA Rural Development State Director.

In 2004, the Kitts Hummock Improvement Association approached the County with interest in connecting to central sewer. A majority of the residents signed a petition in favor of connection. "The Levy Court owes it to the residents of Willow Tree and Kitts Hummock to replace these aging septic systems," said David R. Burris, President Kent County Commissioners. "Not only is it a health and safety issue, it’s a quality of life issue."

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