Options for Clean Water Solutions in Chaparral, New Mexico


United States
Environmental Protection
i Agency

USDA

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

Options for Clean Water Solutions

in Chaparral, New Mexico

¦/a

June 2024

EPA-830-R-24-004

Closing America's Wastewater Access Gap Community Initiative

-------
Contents

Closing America's Wastewater Access Gap Community Initiative Pilot: EPA/USDA-RD Partnership 3

Chaparral, New Mexico 5

Wastewater Treatment Options for Chaparral 7

Funding Opportunities 14

Benefits of Investing in Adequate Wastewater and Drinking Water Infrastructure 19

Sustaining the Investment Through Operations and Maintenance 20

Partners and Roles 23

Road Map for Implementation 24

Concluding Thoughts 25

Definitions 26

Options for Clean Water Solutions in Chaparral

Chaparral is a fast-growing, unincorporated community located between
Doha Ana County and Otero County in New Mexico. The growing population
and home density in Chaparral is increasing the stress on existing waste-
water infrastructure. The Closing America's Wastewater Access Gap
Community Initiative identified multiple options for Doha Ana and Otero
counties to address their needs for central sewer and long-term use of septic
systems.

Doha Ana Utilities (DAU) has constructed a wastewater treatment plant
(WWTP) and begun to extend sewer lines to homes and businesses. Figure
1 shows construction along Edna Street, where sewers were recently
constructed. However, Chaparral will continue to rely on septic systems
where appropriate. Educating homeowners on the need for proactive septic ~>9ure ^ Construction
system maintenance is essential to protect property values and prevent activities on Edni Street,

environmental damage. Additionally, proper maintenance is important for Chaparral, New Mexico.
reducing the risk of premature septic system failure and avoiding unnec-
essary financial challenges for homeowners. Collaboration between Doha Ana and Otero counties to holistically
address Chaparral's needs can help maintain rate affordability in this fast-growing community.

Cover: Advanced sequencing batch reactor (bottom). Photo by AWT Technologies, Inc.

2 Options for Clean Water Solutions in Chaparral, New Mexico

-------
Closing America's Wastewater
Access Gap Community Initiative
Pilot: EPA/USDA-RD Partnership

Introduction

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development
(USDA-RD) partnered with six states and three Tribes (two federally recognized and one state-recognized) on the
Closing America's Wastewater Access Gap Community Initiative. As a pilot program, this initiative was the first of
its kind for EPA and USDA-RD. This initiative provides technical assistance to support capacity to improve waste-
water management for the 11 participating communities. EPA and USDA have grant and loan programs to help pay
for wastewater system improvements. Recent increases in federal funding offer an opportunity for communities
to invest in septic upgrades, connect to nearby treatment systems, or build new sewer and wastewater treatment
systems that meet their needs.

EPA offers a range of Water Technical Assistance (WaterTA) for communities to identify water challenges and
solutions, build capacity, and develop application materials to access water infrastructure funding. EPA collabo-
rates with states, Tribes, territories, community partners, and other stakeholders to implement WaterTA efforts. The
result: more communities apply for federal funding to have quality water infrastructure and reliable water services.
Communities can learn more about EPA WaterTA and how to indicate interest in receiving assistance by visiting
EPA's WaterTA website.1

USDA offers a wide range of water and wastewater assistance for rural communities to obtain the technical assis-
tance and financing necessary to develop drinking water and waste disposal systems. USDA's Water and Waste
Disposal Technical Assistance and Training Grants program helps qualified, private nonprofits provide technical
assistance and training to identify and evaluate solutions to water and waste problems. It also helps applicants
prepare applications for water and waste disposal loans and grants, and it helps associations improve the
operation and maintenance (O&M) of water and waste facilities in eligible rural areas with populations of 10,000
or fewer. Communities can learn more about USDA Water and Waste Disposal Technical Assistance and Training
Grants and how to indicate interest in receiving assistance by visiting USDA's website.2

Purpose

EPA and USDA-RD pilot program staff worked with the pilot program team—elected officials and executive
leadership from Doha Ana County, DAU, and Otero County; the New Mexico Environment Department (NMED);
Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) leadership; and a technical assistance provider, Rural Community
Assistance Corporation (RCAC)—to develop solutions for Chaparral's wastewater issues. This document, Options
for Clean Water Solutions in Chaparral, New Mexico, outlines potential solutions to address the need for improved
wastewater treatment approaches in Chaparral. Residents, county leadership, and elected officials can use this
information to evaluate federal and state funding opportunities that can address wastewater infrastructure needs.

1	h ttps ://www.e pa .q ov/wa te rta

2	https://www.rd.usda.qov/proqrams-services/water-environmental-proqrams/water-waste-disposal-technical-assistance-traininq-qrants

Options for Clean Water Solutions in Chaparral, New Mexico

3

-------
Over the past year, the pilot program team has:

1.	Conducted a community wastewater assessment. The pilot program team reviewed existing information
on wastewater systems in Chaparral and found areas that need improvement. This review did not include
collecting site information on soils or existing septic systems.

2.	Identified wastewater solutions. The pilot program team identified wastewater solutions and estimated their
costs. They considered the community's long-term needs and outlined paths to apply for funding,

3.	Helped the community identify funding opportunities. This document outlines federal funding sources and
explains how to apply for funding. It also shows how to pay for construction and long-term operating costs.

4.	Evaluated methods to pay for ongoing costs. To install and operate a wastewater management system,

Otero County will have to develop a plan to pay for construction and ongoing costs. These costs could include
management, operations, maintenance, and any potential construction loan repayments. This document
offers funding strategies and suggestions to consider, such as programs with low-income rate assistance and
non-rate revenue programs that other utilities have used.

4

Options for Clean Water Solutions in Chaparral, New Mexico

-------
Chaparral, New Mexico

Chaparral, a rural community in the U.S.-Mexico border
region,3 is New Mexico's largest colonia.4 This unincorpo-
rated community is located just north of El Paso, Texas,
and straddles the extreme corner of Doha Ana and Otero
counties. Functionally part of the El Paso-Ciudad Juarez
metropolitan area, Chaparral is located 32 miles from the
border between the United States and Mexico.

The population of Chaparral has grown markedly in
recent decades. According to U.S. Census data, the
population of the Chaparral census-designated place
was 16,551 in 2020, up from 14,631 in 2010. Despite
Chaparral's arid environment, groundwater supplies
have been sufficient to support population and housing
growth in the area. Several private water companies
supply groundwater to residents and businesses.

As of 2020, the population was 89.6 percent Hispanic
or Latino, with 21.8 percent of residents self-identifying
as multiracial. Foreign-born residents make up 28.8
percent of the population. The average household size of
3,40 persons as of 2020 is substantially higher than the
average household size in New Mexico (2.59 persons).

The poverty rate remains higher than the statewide Figure 2. Location of Chaparral.

average, with poverty rates at 29.2 percent for Chaparral
and 18.4 percent for New Mexico as of 2020.

As shown in Figure 2, there are two major corridors from El Paso, Texas, through Chaparral: U.S. Highway 54,
which borders Chaparral to the east and travels through Otero County, and New Mexico Highway 213, which
borders Chaparral to the west and travels through Doha Ana County, Lisa Drive traverses Chaparral east to west
and is a local transportation corridor. Two schools, a community center, church, restaurants, and other nonresi-
dential facilities are located along Lisa Drive.

Few commercial or industrial facilities exist along these transportation corridors, partly due to the lack of sewer
service but also due to undersized water distribution lines that do not support adequate fire flow pressures for
commercial or industrial operations. A corrections facility on Highway 54 northeast of Chaparral has its own onsite
system and is a major employer in the community. Adequate water and wastewater infrastructure along these
transportation corridors would drive economic growth in Chaparral.

Current wastewater infrastructure includes a sanitary sewer system and a central WWTP owned and operated
by DAU, which services approximately 600 to 650 homes in Chaparral. The rest of Chaparral is served by septic
systems. DAU has been actively extending the sewer system to homes through loans and grants provided by the
New Mexico Finance Authority (NMFA) Colonias Infrastructure Fund and USDA-RD programs.

3 Usner, D. J. (2022, April 27). At the border of the American dream. Searchlight New Mexico, https://searchliqhtnm.org/
at-the-border-of-the-american-dream/

4 U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. (2014). Colonias History. HUD Exchange, https://www.hudexchanqe.info/proqrams/
cdbq-colonias/colonias-history/

r -1 Chaparral
Boundary

County Border

Mexico

Miles

0 10 20

1 1 1

Options for Clean Water Solutions in Chaparral, New Mexico

-------
Approximately two-thirds of homes that can connect to the sewer are connected. The DAU Chaparral WWTP is
well managed, and approximately two-thirds of its capacity is currently available for additional customers. In Otero
County, the land use pattern is predominately large lots greater than three-quarters of an acre, which meet the
state's requirements for use of septic systems. Promoting proactive maintenance of these septic systems will
extend their useful life.

The Potential of Wastewater Infrastructure Investment

An effective wastewater management approach provides support and oversight of all wastewater infrastructure
in a community—for both onsite (in this case, septic) and offsite (sewer) systems, whether privately or publicly
owned. Through a comprehensive approach, all wastewater treatment infrastructure becomes part of one
well-managed community system. A comprehensive approach typically ensures that:

• All properties are served by safe and effective wastewater treatment, whether onsite or offsite.

• Business and community development goals are not constrained by wastewater treatment availability.

• All systems receive proper, periodic maintenance, which protects property values, public health, and the
environment.

• Technical and financial resources are available to support maintenance, repair, and upgrade of public and
private systems.

• The location, condition, and maintenance histories of all wastewater systems are recorded and updated to
encourage proper maintenance.

Community Engagement

In the spring of 2023, members of the pilot program team presented to Otero County Commissioners and the
community about the Closing America's Wastewater Access Gap Community Initiative. Although Otero County
leadership was not part of the original pilot program team, they were identified as important stakeholders in
Chaparral. As a result of this site visit, the Otero County Commissioners decided to participate in the project by a
formal vote at a County Commission meeting.

In the fall of 2023, the pilot program team made another site visit to work with the two counties to determine
potential pathways forward. At meetings with Doha Ana County, the team discussed the financial status of DAU,
capacity fees associated with the existing treatment plant, and the potential for Otero County to build a sewer
system in their portion of Chaparral and connect to the Doha Ana treatment plant. The team made another
presentation before the Otero County Board of Commissioners about proactive septic management and sewering
options.

In October 2023, the team created septic system brochures for Otero County to use as community engagement
materials and distribute to community members. The brochures provide information in both English and Spanish
on good septic management. They also include information on the management of fats, oils, and grease, as well
as on the importance of septic system maintenance for avoiding costly repairs or replacement.

Otero County Commissioners asked that the community members of Chaparral be engaged as soon as possible.
The pilot program team found that door-to-door surveys and small meetings at neighborhood venues (as
opposed to large meetings) were best for learning about the challenges that community members face with their
wastewater systems. EPA's and USDA's technical assistance providers are well versed in community engagement
practices and can assist with community engagement going forward.

Options for Clean Water Solutions in Chaparral, New Mexico

-------
Wastewater Treatment Options for

Septic tank in the
back of the lot J

Chaparral

The Chaparral community will need a mix of wastewater treatment
options to address their needs. Land use patterns in Chaparral
range from quarter-acre lots to three-quarter-acre lots and larger
lots that require different approaches to wastewater management.

Otero County relies on NMED's Onsite Wastewater Program for
regulatory oversight of septic systems in Chaparral. Otero County
is a large, rural county. There are few local regulatory programs
in the unincorporated portion of the county, which is generally
made up of large lots served by private water districts and septic
systems (Figure 3). The county does not have a building or land
use planning department, nor does it have a public works or utility
department.

Historically, Chaparral has relied on septic systems for wastewater
service (Figure 4). The septic systems shown in Figure 4 are
limited to those included in a database from NMED's Liquid Waste
Department, which generally captured septic systems permitted
from the early 2000s to 2020 and does not include all permitted
septic systems.

Figure 3. Septic tank constructed for
new lot

III i it. fcMffiaa

/\ Lift Stations
O Septic System
© Active Sewer Customer
i i Lift Station Service Line
Chaparral Boundary
Otero County Service Area
Parcel

!

..¦ija, -

Miles

0	1

	1	1—

Figure 4. Wastewater management systems in Chaparral.

Options for Clean Water Solutions in Chaparral, New Mexico

1

-------
DAU owns and operates a 250,000 gallon-per-day (gpd) wastewater treatment facility on McCombs Road in
southeastern Chaparral that is well maintained and in good condition. DAU developed a master plan for sewer
construction in 2006 and has extended sewer to more densely populated areas of Chaparral. The blue dots in
Figure 4 represent active DAU customers as of February 2023. The black lines and red dots in Figure 4 represent
the sewer service area and lift station locations for a sewer system in Chaparral. The area shaded in orange
located in Otero County was evaluated for service by the Chaparral WWTP as part of the master plan. It is feasible
to serve all of Chaparral, including the Highway 54 corridor, with sewer conveying flow to the Chaparral plant,
though an additional lift station would be needed. Priority for sewer service should be based on the density of
homes and the age and functionality of existing septic systems.

Wastewater management in Chaparral will need to include both septic systems and central sewer with wastewater
treatment. The area was developed using septic systems; however, aging septic systems and the increasing
density of homes means that some areas will require central sewer and treatment going forward. Currently, DAU's
treatment plant in Chaparral has capacity for approximately 1,000 additional residential connections. The amount
of additional capacity available for Otero County connections will depend on the timing of sewer extensions in
Doha Ana County. The Chaparral plant could be expanded in the future if needed.

Not all areas of Chaparral will need central sewer and treatment. The large lots and well-drained soil in portions
of Chaparral are conducive to the use of proactively managed septic systems. Extension of sewer service should
prioritize commercial areas and areas that have greater density than one home per three-quarter-acre lot. During
site visits, the pilot program team noted instances where multiple mobile homes were situated on a single lot in
some areas of Chaparral. The Otero County portion of Chaparral does not have zoning ordinances and is made
up of three-quarter-acre or larger lots. Doha Ana County does have zoning and areas of smaller lots that will be
served by sewer. Local representatives familiar with the building pattern in Chaparral noted that some property
owners may add mobile homes to their lots for family members. These additional mobile homes may be served by
existing septic tanks that were not sized for them. This usage will put additional strain on the septic system and
drainfield, potentially causing failure. Repair or replacement of septic systems can cost $6,000 to $12,000.

This document presents two options for proactive maintenance of septic systems and extending central sewer
and wastewater treatment in Chaparral to address wastewater needs.

1. Establish an onsite wastewater management program. The large residential lot sizes and well-drained
soils in the Otero County portion of Chaparral will support sound onsite wastewater treatment, if systems are
installed correctly and periodically maintained. Establishing even a minimal program for onsite wastewater
management would support the long-term health and viability of onsite wastewater treatment in Chaparral, as
well as in other parts of the county.

2. Provide central sewer and wastewater treatment to areas that have aging septic systems. Providing
central sewer and wastewater treatment to areas of Chaparral that have increased home density and aging
septic systems will address septic systems that can no longer provide adequate wastewater service. DAU's
WWTP in Chaparral has available capacity to serve residents on the Otero County side of Chaparral. The plant
can provide this service in multiple ways, as shown in Table 1.

Options for Clean Water Solutions in Chaparral, New Mexico

-------
Table 1. Collaborative Approaches to Wastewater Management in Chaparral

Option

Description

Benefits

Concerns

Interlocal agreement
(NMSA13-1-135)

Counties would execute
an agreement describing
services to be provided
or shared, the basis
for assessing fees
for services, terms of
payment for services,
timeframe for the
agreement, terms for
renewing the agreement,
and terms for terminating
the agreement.

The agreement would
allow each county to
remain independent. It
would allow for pooling of
resources and increasing
the customer base,
lowering the cost per
customer.

If either county is unable
to provide audited
financial statements to
meet funding agency
requirements, this
arrangement will not allow
that county to access
funding.

Joint powers agreement
(11-1-12[b] NMSA 1978)

Both counties would
agree to jointly build, own,
and operate a utility with
shared power through
a standalone entity that
would be responsible for
the utility.

The entity created by the
joint powers agreement
could apply for financing,
including revenue bonds.
This option would allow
for pooling of resources
and would ensure a
common level of service
for the community.

The new organization
would need to acquire the
current assets from Doha
Ana County and hire new
staff.

Water and sanitation
district

(NM Ch 73, Article 21)

A standalone organization
with its own elected
board, administration, and
staff would be created by
a community vote to serve
the wastewater needs of
Chaparral.

A formal agency with
a board elected by the
people of Chaparral
would help meet waste-
water needs. Water and
sanitation districts have
financing mechanisms
similar to those of the
counties and might
not directly impact the
counties' finances.

This option would
require choosing specific
properties in Chaparral to
be served by the sewer
system. This could be
difficult because so many
new properties have
functioning septic tanks.

Developing an Onsite Wastewater Management Program in Otero
County

EPA's Handbook for Managing Onsite and Clustered (Decentralized) Wastewater Systems outlines five different
management levels that communities can consider, ranging from a basic information and education program
(Level 1) to full ownership of onsite systems (Level 5).5 Based on the project team's experience and discussions
with Otero County, this document focuses on a Level 1 to Level 2 program that would provide information and
technical resources to property owners. Cities and counties that implement a program of this type, which typically
is very straightforward to adopt, have high customer satisfaction. Residents report that these services provide
excellent value for the staff and material costs involved.

5 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. (2005, December). Handbook for managing onsite and clustered (decentralized) wastewater
systems. Office of Water, https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2015-06/documents/onsite handbook.pdf

Options for Clean Water Solutions in Chaparral, New Mexico

-------
The first step in developing a Level 1 to Level 2 program is to evaluate oppor-
tunities and needs for onsite wastewater management. This step includes
looking at the educational, engagement, and outreach options available.

In October 2023, for example, the project team developed a SepticSmart
brochure in both English and Spanish to raise awareness about the need for
proactive septic system management in Otero County (Figure 5).

Further evolution of a septic management program would require the
Otero County Board of County Commissioners to discuss the Homeowner
Awareness and Maintenance Contracts management levels in EPA's guidance
document. This discussion would seek to:

• Determine what management actions are appropriate and desirable now
and in the future.

• Develop relationships with septic pumping and hauling contractors to
understand costs, availability, and local conditions (including septage
receiving).

• Build a base of information and knowledge to share with the community.

• Assess the community's information needs and pathways. For example,
what would be the most effective way to provide information on septic
system management needs?

The initial service level requires minimal cost and staffing. An initial program
level with minimal cost to the county would include:

• Identifying and designating key county staff members to act as points of
contact for wastewater issues; these staff members would build an under-
standing of onsite system management and available resources.

• Making educational resources available through these key staff members.

• Actively providing onsite system owners with information on sound
management through outreach methods such as bill inserts, mailings,
newsletters, social media, and contacts with community organizations.

• Developing a list of qualified contractors able to serve the area for system maintenance, repair, and pumping.

An increased level of service requiring more staff and financial resources would include:

• Reviewing NMED's data on onsite systems and permits to identify occupied structures and parcels with
permitted or (potentially) un-permitted onsite systems.

• Creating an internal database with information on septic system types, ages, and parcel sizes, and coordinating
this information with geographic information system (GIS) and parcel information.

• Using the onsite systems database to schedule mailings and reminders to property owners when maintenance
typically is due.

• If property owners desire, developing a county contract with service providers and pumpers that residents
could use to schedule service. In cases of emergencies or financial hardship, the county could contract with a
service provider to provide service and bill the property owner later.

The steps outlined here would represent a relatively simple program. It would not necessarily require a new or
dedicated staff person, although Otero County would need to identify and direct some staff capacity toward the
program.

By encouraging proper installation and maintenance of septic systems in Chaparral, Otero County can prevent,
or at least delay, septic system failures. Throughout the United States, the costs to repair or replace failed onsite
systems can result in significant financial hardship for property owners and make it difficult for local health officials
to address public health concerns. Proactive management protects property values and protects homeowners
from exposure to catastrophic costs. It also minimizes the investment needed from local and state governments
for central sewer systems.

Do your Part-
Be SepticSmart!

Figure 5. SepticSmart
brochure for Otero County.

Options for Clean Water Solutions in Chaparral, New Mexico

-------
Constructing a Sewer System in the Otero County Portion of
Chaparral

Siting and operating a WWTP is typically the most challenging and complex part of providing offsite sewer
services. By contrast, constructing sewer lines in Otero County and connecting them to the WWTP in Doha Ana
County would be a straightforward and efficient means of providing sewer service to the Otero County portion
of Chaparral. Otero County can prioritize potential construction of a sewer system based on the functionality and
age of septic systems, the density of homes, and the need to support economic growth along major transportation
corridors such as Highway 54.

An initial step is for Otero County to engage with Doha Ana County on the options for shared wastewater
service in Chaparral. The two counties could begin with an intergovernmental agreement to apply for funding
and develop a shared plan that would prioritize and schedule sewer construction in the Otero County portion of
Chaparral. Any follow-up agreement between Otero and Doha Ana counties could then be completed once the
counties know more specific information about the extent and costs of providing sewer service and wastewater
treatment. An intergovernmental agreement between two entities for wastewater treatment service typically
includes, but is not limited to, the following:

• Outline of services and responsibilities. This section would outline the wastewater management services to
be provided by Doha Ana County (i.e., wastewater treatment) and the services to be provided by Otero County
(e.g., sewer system management, billing, customer support).

• Definition and revision of service area. This section would identify the geographic areas from which collected
wastewater would be conveyed to the Chaparral WWTP and would describe a process for service area
expansion or revision.

• Determination of flow characteristics and monitoring. This section would define where and how frequently
wastewater flows from Otero County service areas would be sampled for flow and parameters that affect the
wastewater treatment process (e.g., biological oxygen demand).

• Outline of pricing and payment terms. This section would outline the basis for pricing (e.g., flow volume, flow
strength), when and how payment would be remitted, and related administrative processes.

Concurrent with or following the initial agreement, Otero County could contract a consulting engineering firm to
assess the technical feasibility of constructing sewers in the Otero County portion of Chaparral, including the older
area adjacent to the county line and the Highway 54 commercial corridor. An engineering feasibility assessment
would lead to preparation of a Preliminary Engineering Report (PER) and Environmental Information Document
(EID), which are required for construction funding applications. This process would address the following:

• Number and type of connections. Identify the existing occupied structures and estimate the number of
potential future structures that could connect to the sewer system; identify the type of flow (i.e., residential,
industrial, food-related, general commercial).

• Flow characterization. Assess the flow volume and raw wastewater strength from the prospective
connections.

• Collection system type. Determine the best type of collection system, which could include gravity sewers
(the most common type, with the least impact on property owners) or septic tank effluent pump (STEP)
sewers. STEP sewers require installing a septic tank at each property (or group of properties); liquid effluent
or graywater is then pumped to the WWTP. Since they require less excavation to construct, STEP sewers can
be a desirable option in areas with difficult subsurface conditions. Maintenance of STEP systems includes
periodic pump-outs of the septic tanks and replacement of pumps. Conventional gravity sewers generally have
fewer ongoing maintenance needs, such as periodic cleaning of the sewers and lift stations. Figure 6 shows an
example of a gravity sewer system with lift stations and force mains, and Figure 7 shows an example of a STEP
sewer system.

• Land acquisition needs. Determine the extent of easements and rights-of-way required to construct a
collection system and lift stations.

Options for Clean Water Solutions in Chaparral, New Mexico

-------
• Preliminary costs. Evaluate estimated costs of engineering, construction, land acquisition, and ancillary
services required to construct the system, as well as general annual O&M costs. Conceptual costs can be
estimated using recent construction costs of extending sewer in Dona Ana County and other nearby commu-
nities. Cost estimates in 2023 included approximately $1 million per mile of gravity sewer, $2,500 to $5,000 to
connect each home (depending on the distance from the roadway), and approximately $300,000 to $500,000
for a lift station with instrumentation.

How the Sewer Works

Pump
station

^^31

gravity flow

Sewer
force main

(pumped uphill)

Wastewater
Treatment Plant

Public
sewer
main

Figure 6. Example of a gravity sewer system. Image provided by Des Moines Metropolitan
Wastewater Reclamation Authority.

If sewer service is provided by Otero County,
the county will need to develop a financial and
management framework to guide its investments and
operations. A governing framework would consider
staffing, equipment, and support needs; capital and
operating costs; and required rates and fees; as well as
important policy considerations, including:

Customer service and billing. If Otero County
provides sewer service, how will customers be
billed? Who will provide customer service? How
will the county handle appeals and delinquent
payments? Figure 7. Example of a STEP sewer system.

Connection policies. What will the county's Image provided by Tom Faye, City of Lacey,

connection policies be? The county has a broad Washington.
range of options—connection to sewer can be

completely voluntary for all customers, required only for new development and/or failed onsite wastewater
systems, required on a phased basis, or required upon construction of a sewer system able to serve the
property.

Readiness-to-serve/standby charges. If connection to sewer is not mandatory upon construction, the county
can decide whether to assess a readiness-to-serve or standby charge to properties that do not connect. This
would reflect the investment the county has made to make service available.

Options for Clean Water Solutions in Chaparral, New Mexico

-------
• Integration with county government. How will staff and elected or appointed officials work together to
manage these services? Otero County can evaluate multiple options for organization and governance to find
the best fit.

• Financial oversight. Who will review and audit the program's financf

Otero County can consider external resources to support sewer
system management. Public utilities routinely use externally contracted
services; for example, some municipalities have contracts with water
districts to provide billing and customer service. Alternatively, staff in
other municipal departments may be able to fill certain roles in sewer
system management. Otero County could also contract operation of
the sewer system out to a third party. Considering these options would
be part of the governance framework development process.

To address wastewater management needs in Chaparral, Otero County
should also evaluate the subdivision code. Ensuring that sites have
adequate sanitation capacity in the septic system as part of any lot
split will help avoid overallocation of existing systems. If the area is
expected to continue to grow and become more densely populated
in the future, Otero County needs to evaluate how septic systems
are installed for new builds to make retrofitting sewer systems easier.

For example, siting the septic tank at the front of a property will
make it easier to connect it to a sewer system in the future if the area
continues to develop and become denser.

In Doha Ana County, the effort to extend sewer (Figure 8) to areas with smaller lots and aging septic systems
will help address the community's need for adequate sanitation. The Chaparral WWTP has adequate capacity to
serve approximately 1,000 more customers. The pilot program team conducted a high-level analysis of Doha Ana
County using aerial imagery and local data. This analysis found that approximately two-thirds of the homes that
have sewer available are connected to the system. One barrier to connection is the cost for the private property
owner to construct a sewer lateral (a pipe from the building to the sewer system) and decommission their septic
tank, which can cost approximately $2,500 to $5,000 in total. Funding sources that can help property owners pay
for connection to the sewer are discussed below.

i, and how?

Figure 8. Dona Ana County
sanitary sewer manhole.

Options for Clean Water Solutions in Chaparral, New Mexico

-------
Funding Opportunities

The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law provides additional funding to the CWSRF for loans and grants to small,
rural, and disadvantaged communities that can be leveraged with USDA-RD funds to address inadequate
water and wastewater systems. There are several sources of grant arid loan funding that could support septic
management and/or sewer construction in Chaparral. Some funding programs support individual property owners,
while others support a utility or local government. Areas of emphasis for funding in Chaparral include:

• Supporting property owners in constructing sewer laterals and decommissioning septic tanks. These costs can
range from $2,500 to more than $5,000 and can be a barrier for property owners in connecting to a sewer
system.

• Supporting construction of the sewer system so property owners with failing or overloaded septic tanks can
connect to the central sewer instead of bearing the costs for repairing or replacing their own septic systems.

• Supporting income-qualified property owners in repairing or replacing their septic systems where sewer
service is not available.

Overview of USDA-RD's Water
and Waste Disposal Loans and

6 https://www.rd,usda .qov/proq ra ms-services/rd-a pply

7 https://www.rd.usda.qov/proqrams-services/water-environmental-proqrams

Options for Clean Water Solutions in Chaparral, New Mexico

and Environmental Programs: Water
Grants

Through Rural Utilities Service Water and Environmental
Programs, rural communities obtain the technical assistance
and financing necessary to develop drinking water and waste
disposal systems. Figure 9 shows a previous project funded
through USDA for DAU.

USDA-RD has long-term, low-interest loan financing programs
to assist communities with infrastructure costs. There are
opportunities for grants combined with loans for communities
that qualify.

Eligibility for funding is based on the community's median
household income and population.

Planning funds are available through Special Evaluation
Assistance for Rural Communities and Households (SEARCH)

Grants or Water and Waste Disposal Predevelopment
Planning Grants (PPGs), depending on the size of the
population served. SEARCH grants are available for commu- Fi9ure 9' USDA-funded sewer system
nit.es with populations under 2,500. PPGs, which require a improvements in Chaparral.
cash match of 25 percent, are available for communities with

populations under 10,000. Both these funds may be limited to $30,000 to $60,000 per application.

USDA-RD loans and grants require financial audits, as well as a commitment to revenue collection during the
life of the loan.

For communities receiving loans, the loan term can be up to 40 years based on the expected life of the system.
The interest rate is adjusted quarterly.

USDA-RD accepts applications year-round on a rolling basis through RD Apply.6
More information is available on USDA's website.7

-------
Overview of the CWSRF Program Administered by NMED

• The New Mexico CWSRF is a low-interest loan program intended to finance public infrastructure improvements,
including planning projects, in New Mexico.

• Funding is available for planning projects such as septic system management programs or master planning for
sewer service to Chaparral.

• CWSRF funds can be used for constructing a lateral from a home to a sewer system and decommissioning
septic systems.

• Subsidy is possible for eligible communities in the form of grants. Eligibility is based on NMED's affordability
criteria, which include:

- Per capita income of 80 percent or less of the national average.

- Population under 20,000 for a municipality and under 200,000 for a county.

- Unemployment higher than the national average.

• Applications are accepted throughout the year.

• The loan term is up to 30 years, and the interest rate is 0 percent or 0.01 percent.

• The amount of subsidy and loan is not determined until after an application is submitted.

• The applications are scored using criteria that include potential improvements to the quality of surface water
or groundwater, sustainability, and readiness to proceed. NMED posts project scoring information and rankings
the quarterly priority list.

• For more information, visit the NMED website.8

Overview of NMFA Colonias Infrastructure Fund

• Colonias funding is available for entities eligible under the Colonias Infrastructure Act. Qualified entities can
include counties, municipalities, or other entities recognized as political subdivisions of the state. Qualified
entities must be able to demonstrate adequate capacity to construct and operate the project over the long
term.

• Colonias funding must directly benefit a designated colonia. A colonia, as defined by the Colonias
Infrastructure Act, is a rural community with a population of 25,000 persons or fewer located within 150 miles
of the U.S.-Mexico border that (1) has been designated as a colonia by the municipality or county in which it
is located due to a lack of potable water supply; a lack of adequate sewage systems; or a lack of decent, safe,
and sanitary housing; (2) has been in existence as a colonia prior to November 1990; and (3) has submitted
appropriate documentation to the Colonias Board to substantiate the conditions under (1) and (2) of this
definition.

• The funding is provided as a 90 percent grant and 10 percent loan. In addition, a 10 percent match is required.
An entity may choose to take on an additional loan in lieu of the required match. The loans are structured as
construction loans with terms of up to 20 years with 0 percent interest and a 0.25 percent administrative fee.

• Eligible or qualified projects may be related to planning, design, and/or construction of the following:

- Water systems

- Wastewater systems

- Solid waste disposal facilities

- Flood and drainage control

- Road infrastructure

- Housing infrastructure

• Colonias funds cannot be used for new construction and/or development.

• Applications are accepted between January and March each year.

• For more information, visit the NMFA website.9

8 https://www.env.nm.qov/fundinq-opportunities/

9 https://www.nmfinance.com/colonias/

Options for Clean Water Solutions in Chaparral, New Mexico

-------
Overview of NMFA's Local Government Planning Fund

• Funding is available via grants to qualified entities for developing planning documents for infrastructure, water
and wastewater, or economic development projects. Eligible plans include PERs, feasibility studies, EIDs,
comprehensive plans, asset management plans, water conservation plans, and master plans.

• Grant eligibility is determined by project type and the applicant's ability to pay for all or a portion of the
planning document. NMFA awards grants on a sliding scale based on criteria stipulated in the program's rules.

• Awards cannot exceed $50,000. If an entity does not qualify for the full requested amount, the entity must
cover the unfunded amount through a local match. The program allows for a local match waiver per Local
Government Planning Fund rules and project management policies if certain criteria are met. The guidelines
are available on the program's website.10

• Required documents for the application include current fiscal year budget; audited financial statements or
agreed-upon procedures; an open meetings act resolution; a resolution approving the submission of the Local
Government Planning Fund application; and the applicant certification document, as well as articles of incorpo-
ration, association bylaws and board rules, and regulations for applicants organized under the Sanitary
Projects Act.

• If multiple entities are proposing a regional solution, one entity should take the lead in applying for a planning
grant and ensure that the document addresses the infrastructure needs of each entity. For water, wastewater,
and solid waste projects and long-term master plans, regionalization must be included as a solution within the
planning document.

• Applications are accepted monthly, and grants are made on a reimbursement basis. The application process
can take approximately a month from submission to funding determination.

• Visit the NMFA website for more information.10

Overview of the Border Environment Infrastructure Fund (BEIF)
Administered by North American Development Bank (NADBank)

• The BEIF offers grant financing for implementing high-priority municipal drinking water and wastewater infra-
structure projects within 100 kilometers of the U.S.-Mexico border.

- Subsidy is possible for eligible communities in the form of grants. Eligibility is based on a set of general
project criteria. Projects must address an existing human health and/or ecological issue. Priority will be
given to those projects likely to have the most impact.

- Projects must have a U.S.-side benefit. Priority will be given to projects with benefits on both sides of
the border.

- Projects where the discharge is directly or indirectly to U.S. waters must achieve U.S. norms for ambient
water quality in U.S. waters, although infrastructure development may be phased over time. Any flow
reductions that result from implementing non-discharging alternatives must not threaten U.S. or shared
ecosystems.

- Project funding intended for U.S. colonias will not be available unless the state, county, or respective
municipal government has established an enforceable local ordinance or other zoning rule that prevents
the development or construction of any additional colonia areas and any further development within an
existing colonia without the necessary infrastructure.

- Adequate planning, O&M, and pretreatment provisions are a prerequisite to detailed design and
construction financing.

- Only projects that meet or agree to meet project certification criteria will be selected.

- Priority will be given to projects with maximum funding from other sources and where BEIF funding is
necessary to complete financing of the project.

10 https://www.nmfinance.com/local-qovernment-planninq-fund/

Options for Clean Water Solutions in Chaparral, New Mexico

-------
• Applications are accepted throughout the year and are evaluated periodically for placement within the ranked
project application list. As additional BEIF funding becomes available, new projects will be selected and
incorporated into the development pipeline.

• The BEIF grant may not exceed $8 million, and there is a project sponsor requirement. The project sponsor
must:

- Finance part of the project with a debt component and confirm the commitment of other funding
sources to complement the BEIF grant prior to certification.

- Complete all development activities—including obtaining environmental clearances, finalizing design,
obtaining project certification, and signing the grant agreement with NADBank—within 2.5 years of
receiving notification of project selection.

- Have made or be willing to make adequate provisions for pretreatment of industrial/commercial sewage
prior to construction financing.

- Be responsible for procuring all goods, works, and services related to the project.

• Visit the NADBank website for more information.11

Funding for Septic Systems

There are multiple sources that fund septic system repair and replacement for income-qualified households, and
that provide development and engagement for proactive septic management programs.

• USDA-RD's Single Family Housing Repair Loans and Grants program (also known as the Section 504 Home
Repair Program) provides loans to very-low-income homeowners to repair, improve, or modernize their homes.
It also provides grants to elderly, very-low-income homeowners to remove health and safety hazards.

• NMED's Liquid Waste Program assists low-income households with septic system repair and upgrades through
the Liquid Waste Disposal Assistance program. Households earning less than $16,000 a year currently qualify
for assistance.

Funding for Planning Activities

Multiple funding sources can support the development of a septic system management program or the extension
of sewer service from Doha Ana County to Otero County. Sources include NMFA's Local Government Planning
Fund, USDA-RD's SEARCH grants and PPG grant/cash match (both are limited to $30,000 to $60,000), and the
CWSRF program (no maximum limit, but the loan/grant ratio of funding cannot be determined until applications
are submitted). Depending on the approach taken in Chaparral, these funding sources may need to be combined
to maximize grant funding.

Doha Ana and Otero counties may be able to apply for further assistance through EPA's expanded Closing
America's Wastewater Access Gap program. Establishing an initial intergovernmental agreement between Doha
Ana and Otero counties would allow EPA to assist further in next steps. For instance, developing a PER that
evaluates sewer options in the Otero County portion of Chaparral would be helpful to support wastewater plans
for the counties.

11 https://www.nadb.org/infrastructure-financinq/qrants/border-environment-infrastructure-fund-beif-pdap

Options for Clean Water Solutions in Chaparral, New Mexico

-------
Funding for Construction of Private Laterals to the Sewer System

One barrier that prevents property owners from connecting to an available sewer system is the cost of
constructing the sewer lateral from the building to the sewer system and decommissioning the septic system. This
cost can range from $2,500 to $5,000 in total, depending on the property. There are multiple funding sources
to help private property owners construct laterals to connect to the sewer system and decommission septic
tanks. The reasoning behind making public funding available for these tasks is that it is in the public interest to
decommission failed septic systems so that they do not create a public health hazard. Funding sources include
USDA-RD's Section 306C and Single Family Housing Repair Loans and Grants programs, which help income-qual-
ified property owners connect with public sewer systems. These programs work directly with property owners.
New Mexico's CWSRF program works with utilities and local governments to provide funds to construct laterals
and decommission septic tanks.

Generally, the costs for connecting private properties would be included in a larger project for construction of the
sewer system, but the counties could submit a funding application just for construction of laterals. DAU has also
received funding from NADBank to construct laterals. As DAU continues to extend sewer service in Chaparral,
future funding applications should consider how to incorporate funding for property owners that will be served by
the extension project and property owners that can connect to sewer but have not yet done so. Communication
programs educating property owners about available funding will be important as well

18

Options for Clean Water Solutions in Chaparral, New Mexico

-------
Benefits of Investing in Adequate
Wastewater and Drinking Water
Infrastructure

Public and Community Health Improvement

Wastewater investment improves environmental and public health for communities. The soils in Chaparral are
well suited for septic systems. However, improper connections or lack of proactive maintenance can cause these
systems to fail, leading to standing sewage or straight piping of raw sewage into local ditches. Raw sewage can
enter local waterways or the groundwater system through straight piping or from stormwater runoff of standing
sewage during rain events. Raw sewage can harm natural ecosystems and limit their capacity to support wildlife.
It can also contaminate groundwater, leading to contaminated drinking water. Residents can become ill when they
interact with contaminated water sources and can ingest harmful bacteria from polluted waters.

Exposure to sewage can have negative health impacts and spread diseases such as salmonellosis, shigellosis,
cholera, giardiasis, amoebiasis, hepatitis A, viral enteritis, and other diarrheal diseases.12 There are many different
types of microbes in wastewater, which makes it challenging to determine specific causes of illness. Detecting
and identifying microbes in wastewater takes time and resources.13 However, it is well known that exposure to
untreated waste negatively affects residents' health and well-being.

Investing in adequate wastewater infrastructure creates a healthier environment for residents of Chaparral.
Children can play in backyards, residents do not have to worry about their families and pets encountering
raw sewage, household plumbing is more functional, and odors of sewage are not persistently present.
Well-maintained and properly built wastewater treatment systems protect residents from viruses and bacteria.
They also reduce environmental pollution, function during rain and storms, and provide a foundation for economic
development.

Economic Impact of Wastewater Infrastructure Investment

Developing wastewater systems can bring economic benefits and jobs for communities. The Economic Benefits
of Investing in Water Infrastructure study, commissioned by the Value of Water Campaign and completed by the
U.S. Water Alliance in 2017, found that for every $1 million spent on infrastructure construction, over 15 jobs are
generated. Community leaders in Doha Ana and Otero counties may want to consider school apprenticeship
programs and other local workforce development programs to create opportunities for residents. These programs
could help residents develop construction-related and wastewater operation skills.

Infrastructure can provide a strong foundation for the community through improved wastewater treatment and
health services. Chaparral's proximity to El Paso can make it an attractive location for commercial and industrial
businesses. Gravity sewer and centralized treatment are the most flexible wastewater systems for economic
development.

12 World Health Organization. (2006). WHO guidelines for the safe use of wastewater, excreta and greywater (Vol. 2). https://www.who.int/
publications/i/item/9241546832

13 Kaushal, S., & Singh, J. S. (2017). Wastewater impact on human health and microorganism-mediated remediation and treatment
through technologies. In J. Singh & G. Seneviratne (Eds.), Agro-environmentalsustainability. Springer, https://link.sprinaer.com/
cha pter/10.1007/978-3-319-49727-3 12

Options for Clean Water Solutions in Chaparral, New Mexico

-------
Sustaining the Investment Through
Operations and Maintenance

Potential Approaches for O&M

The approach to O&M for wastewater management systems in the Otero County portion of Chaparral will depend
on the systems selected for implementation and how the systems will be maintained. DAU already has an estab-
lished wastewater utility with maintenance plans in place for their WWTP and sewer system. If Otero County
builds a system that is connected to DAU's sewer system, they may be able to either contract with DAU or another
vendor for maintenance of their sewer system. If Otero County builds their own WWTP and sewer system, they will
need to consider either staffing or contracting with a vendor for O&M.

Paying for O&M

DAU uses a flat-rate fee structure, as water use information from private districts throughout their service area is
not uniformly available. The residential flat rate is $50.56 per month and is charged to all customers who have
signed up for sewer service or who can sign up. DAU is conscious of keeping rates affordable for their customers.

In small wastewater utility systems, two major drivers of monthly rates are staffing and debt service. Debt service
is necessary to repay loans or bonds issued to build infrastructure. To keep rates as affordable as possible, DAU
and Otero County should maximize grants and minimize loans for the community wastewater utility system.
Economies of scale can also improve affordability. Figure 10 assumes the cost to support one full-time wastewater
employee is $80,000 per year in total, including salary, benefits, office supplies, equipment, vehicle, and training.
However, as the number of system connections increases, the monthly cost per connection to support this
employee decreases, making the cost more affordable for each resident. The cost of employment can vary, but
the shape of the graph will stay the same: as more connections are added, the cost per connection is reduced.
There is significant economy of scale in staffing a utility with more than 650 to 700 connections. DAU currently
has approximately 650 customers in Chaparral. Economy of scale should be considered as Otero County decides
whether to start its own utility system or form a separate organization.

Options for Clean Water Solutions in Chaparral, New Mexico

-------
Economy of Scale: Monthly Cost per Connection for 1 Full-Time Employee

o

o

c

o

$0

Current number of sewer.
customers in Chaparral

100 200 300 400 500 600 700

Number of connections

800

900

1000

Figure 10. Economy of scale benefits: monthly cost per wastewater customer to support one
full-time employee.

The affordability and financial solvency of a system also depends upon timely collection of fees to support
O&M. Billing wastewater-only services can be a challenge, especially when a flat fee is used or when dealing
with delinquent accounts. Drinking water utilities can discontinue service temporarily until a customer is able to
address back payments. Some wastewater utilities bill and collect their fees through the drinking water utility, but
this arrangement is not always possible. Utilities do have options to collect wastewater fees beyond monthly bills,
including using a special assessment district for services that benefit the property or an ad valorem tax district
where the fee would be related to property value. There are several nuanced differences in fee collection method-
ology, and the counties should seek legal guidance when setting up any type of funding through a special district.
A high-level overview of fee collection options is shown in Table 2.

Options for Clean Water Solutions in Chaparral, New Mexico

21

-------
Table 2. Fee Collection Options

Option

Description

Benefits

Concerns

Monthly bill

Bills would be sent to
customers monthly for
payment of O&M costs or
standby fees.

Monthly billing is a
common process that
most community members
understand and can
easily reflect changes in
property ownership or
customers.

A lack of ability to enforce
payment and collect from
delinquent accounts could
raise rates for those who
pay.

Special assessment
district or public
improvement district
(NM Stat § 3-33-21 [2021])

A special assessment
district or public
improvement district
would recover O&M
or standby fees as
part of property tax.
Assessments generally
must prove a benefit to
the property, such as
increased property value,
in proportion to the cost of
the assessment.

This option is not legally
considered a tax because
the cost is tied to the
benefit to the property,
not the value of the
property. Fee collection
can be more effective
and efficient than monthly
bills, once established.

The community may still
consider the additional
cost a tax increase. The
development of the
district and initial imple-
mentation could be admin-
istratively burdensome
and controversial.

Tax increment devel-
opment district (HDD)
(Section 5-15-2 NMSA
1978)

A TIDD would support
economic development
and job creation by
creating gross receipts
of tax financing for public
infrastructure.

This option could be
tailored to focus on
commercial corridors and
economic development
opportunities.

TIDDs generally expire
once the debt for
improvements is paid off.
Therefore, they do not
provide adequate funding
for ongoing O&M.

22

Options for Clean Water Solutions in Chaparral, New Mexico

-------
Partners and Roles

The path to clean water is not an easy one. Chaparral has
options to choose from when it comes to clean water. Many
partners will continue to support Doha Ana and Otero counties
along this journey (Figure 11), including:

• U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development
(USDA-RD). Lead agency (with EPA) providing jointly
leveraged technical assistance resources in this pilot
program. Funding partner.

• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

Headquarters and Region 6. Lead agency (with USDA)
providing jointly leveraged technical assistance resources
in this pilot program.

• New Mexico Environment Department (NMED). Agency
administering the CWSRF and Liquid Waste Disposal
Assistance programs.

• Rural Community Assistance Corporation (RCAC).

Nonprofit organization that serves communities through
training, technical and financial assistance, and advocacy.

• Bohannan Huston. Consulting engineer for Doha Ana
County that provided technical support for sewer system
planning and construction in Chaparral.

Technical Assistance and Support for Chaparral Moving Forward

Both EPA and USDA-RD fund technical assistance programs that support small, rural, and disadvantaged commu-
nities and help them navigate the CWSRF, Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF), and USDA-RD funding
programs. The ultimate goals of the technical assistance (e.g., WaterTA) programs are to help communities identify
water challenges and solutions, build capacity to address those needs, and develop application materials to
access water infrastructure funding. Technical assistance providers can help the Chaparral community understand
the funding available through the SRF and USDA-RD programs, as well as deadlines and application requirements.
EPA WaterTA and USDA-RD technical assistance providers can also help prepare and submit funding appli-
cations. These providers can offer advice as the community considers infrastructure options, financing, and rate
structures. Their connections with EPA and USDA-RD can help the community successfully complete projects and
programs. Other technical assistance support for Chaparral can include:

• Supporting workforce development and staff training. Constructing and operating a wastewater system
requires a workforce skilled in construction and water operations trades. Technical assistance providers have
staff training programs available.

• Engaging residents in the needs and benefits of a wastewater treatment system. Customers play a
large part in the success of a wastewater treatment system. Technical assistance providers can help with
engagement and education for residents on topics such as "What Not to Flush," "Management of Fats, Oils,
and Grease," why having a wastewater system is important, and how to maintain a septic system. Educational
materials are available for residents.

Figure 11. Partners to Dona Ana and
Otero counties for wastewater needs in
Chaparral, New Mexico.

Options for Clean Water Solutions in Chaparral, New Mexico

-------
• Developing effective wastewater rates. The financial solvency of any utility system depends on customers
paying for ongoing O&M of the system. Some communities use rate programs that incorporate a fee for
new, commercial, or industrial customers to contribute to an affordability assistance program for low-income
residents. EPA's Environmental Finance Network has technical assistance providers that specialize in these
types of rate programs.

More information can be found at EPA's WaterTA website.14

Road Map for Implementation

The process for developing a holistic wastewater management program is not an easy one and can take time,
especially when working across political jurisdictions. Taking small steps and engaging the community and
decisionmakers at key junctures is critical to overall success of the program. Figure 12 provides a guide for these
steps, but Chaparral's path will vary depending on community priorities and the decisions of local leaders.

Continue sewer
expansior"

Develop funding

program for laterals

and communication

program

Continue to
address collection
of standby fees

Determine type of
organizational
structure

Submit funding
application for
planning project

:er

* »

Update design

Develop process

requirements for

for lot splits

potential future

STEP system

Include contractor
information on
website

Figure 12. Road map for wastewater management programs in Chaparral.

Expand program
to include
maintenance
contract features

14 https://www.e pa .q ov/wate rta

Options for Clean Water Solutions in Chaparral, New Mexico

-------
Figure 12 provides multiple paths to address wastewater management needs in Chaparral for both Doha Ana and
Otero counties. The paths can be independent of each other but are also connected because they each address
the needs of the community.

For Doha Ana County, any future sewer extension projects should consider funding sewer lateral construction
and emphasize communication with property owners to facilitate the lateral construction and connection to the
sewer. DAU's Chaparral WWTP currently has sufficient capacity available to continue to provide sewer service to
residents.

Doha Ana County and Otero County leaders have indicated that they will seek permission from their respective
Boards of County Commissioners to enter an agreement that facilitates the planning of shared wastewater service
in Chaparral. If they receive approval to proceed with the planning activities, the counties can prioritize areas for
sewer service and develop an approach for funding sewer construction. Once a plan is developed, it generally
takes at least 3 to 5 years to fund, design, and construct a sewer system before homes can be connected.

Independent of the conversations with Doha Ana County, Otero County can consider modifying its subdivision
code and developing a septic system management program. Both of those tasks could be done within 12 months.

Concluding Thoughts

Small steps can be transformative in Chaparral. Making homeowners aware of how proactive maintenance
can extend the life of septic systems is critical to protecting property values and preventing costly repairs or
replacement of septic systems. Where septic systems are aging and/or population density has grown beyond the
capacity of septic systems, connecting to a central sewer and wastewater treatment system can be a much more
cost-effective option for property owners. There are several federal and state funding sources that can support
both septic system repairs and planning, design, and construction of a sewer system. A nuanced approach that
maintains affordability while building a stronger, more resilient economy will help Chaparral thrive into the future.

Options for Clean Water Solutions in Chaparral, New Mexico

-------
Definitions

Colonia. A rural community within the U.S.-Mexico border region that lacks adequate water, sewer, housing, or a
combination of all three.

Gravity sewer system, A system that includes a sewer lateral connected to the house and sewer lines that flow by
gravity to one or more pump stations that pump the flow to a treatment plant,

Onsite/septic system. A traditional system includes a settling (septic) tank and drainfield. Advanced or
engineered systems can include aeration systems, chemical dosing, and a sand filtration system for the drainfield.

Regionalization, A process where two or more governments work together through intergovernmental agree-
ments or other means to address needs across political boundaries.

Septic tank effluent pump (STEP) sewer system. A sewer system with a septic tank and pump at the customer's
building. Effluent from the septic tank is pumped into a low-pressure sewer system to a treatment facility. Septic
tanks need to be pumped out periodically. This system is the responsibility of the homeowner, utility, or common
Responsible Management Entity, depending on ownership and the operations and maintenance model.

26

Options for Clean Water Solutions in Chaparral, New Mexico

-------

-------
Limitations

Any systems arid associated cost estimates discussed in this draft analysis are preliminary and not intended to
serve in lieu of a Preliminary Engineering Report prepared by a professional engineer licensed in the relevant
jurisdiction.

Alternatives have been developed at a high level with desktop tools and have not been informed with survey data
or field reconnaissance work. Further field evaluation is needed to verify these alternatives in subsequent work
following this assessment and solutions plan.

Treatment and dispersal systems designed by licensed design professionals are based on soil evaluations, flood
elevation evaluations and variances, permitted discharge limit determinations, and unforeseen factors that cannot
be determined without onsite field surveys and evaluations beyond the scope of this draft assessment.

-------