Trenton City Commission Addresses Sewer Spill, Public Concerns at April 13 Meeting
TRENTON, GA — The Trenton City Commission addressed a recent wastewater incident during its April 13, 2026 meeting.
Sewer Spill Explained and How they are working with the EPD
City officials provided a detailed explanation of a wastewater spill that occurred late last week at the city’s treatment plant.
According to city leadership, the issue began during routine maintenance when crews attempted to drain a clarifier system. While redirecting flow back into the plant, the system became overwhelmed, resulting in an estimated 4,000 to 8,000 gallons of partially treated wastewater entering Lookout Creek.
Mayor Alex Case emphasized the spill was not raw sewage, but did contain solids such as grease and organic material.
The city reported the incident to the Georgia Environmental Protection Division and has been assigned a case manager. The situation is also being reviewed at the federal level by the Environmental Protection Agency.
City crews have begun a 28-day monitoring program, collecting water samples at multiple locations along the creek.
Working with the Georgia Environmental Protection Division, the City of Trenton will conduct water testing seven days a week at 10 different locations.
We will be conducting testing seven days a week for four straight weeks at 10 different locations, including sites above the plant, at the facility, and downstream. All samples will be independently analyzed by a third-party lab, and results will be reported to EPD every day.
“We’re not hiding anything,” The Mayor said, noting the spill was accidental and occurred while crews were actively working to fix the issue.
The city faced strong backlash on social media following the spill, with many raising concerns online. Mayor Case addressed the criticism during the meeting, emphasizing the city’s commitment to transparency and quick action.
Aging Infrastructure Highlighted
The incident also brought attention to the city’s aging wastewater system, with some components dating back more than 35 years.
City staff indicated plans are moving forward to:
- Replace outdated valves and equipment
- Explore funding through the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority
- Invest in improved solids processing technology
Watch the Entire Trenton City Meeting below
Original stories posted on the sewer spill
Kayaker Raises Concerns Over Sludge in Lookout Creek; City of Trenton Responds
City of Trenton Reports Wastewater Discharge into Lookout Creek