OLD FORT, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Mayor Pam Snypes has issued a public letter addressing persistent water and sewer issues in Old Fort, citing aging infrastructure and storm-related damage as key challenges.
In the letter released this Friday, Snypes acknowledged residents’ frustrations over recurring leaks, service interruptions and boil water advisories — many of which have increased since Tropical Storm Helene overwhelmed the town’s systems. The mayor explained that Old Fort’s water and sewer infrastructure sustained significant damage, including the town’s sewer plant being submerged under 14 feet of water.
With the town’s maintenance equipment destroyed, Old Fort has had to rely on outside contractors for repairs, many of which are ongoing. FEMA is expected to reimburse much of the repair cost, including a $1.5 million electrical panel replacement at the sewer plant, though full reimbursement is still pending.
Snypes emphasized that while contractors are making progress, accidental breaks and previously unknown issues continue to emerge. In the meantime, the town has installed new valves to help minimize service disruptions and is following stricter safety protocols for boil water notices.
“I understand how frustrating this is,” Snypes wrote. “But until we are able to fully update all of our water and sewer lines, some problems will continue.”
She encouraged residents to reach out directly with questions or concerns.