Do you need to have your septic system pumped or repaired, but simply can’t afford it?

Chilton County residents will have an opportunity to receive free septic tank pump-out vouchers valued at $250 by attending a workshop on Tuesday, May 18 at the Jemison City Complex Auditorium at 6 p.m.

Each voucher is good for $250 and can be used toward the expense of having a household septic tank pumped or repaired. About 150 vouchers will be given out on a first-come, first-served basis to Chilton County residents only. There is a limit of one voucher per person.

The vouchers are made possible by the Buxahatchee Creek Watershed Restoration Project and the Alabama Department of Environmental Management.

“Basically, you need to attend to receive it (the voucher),” said Glenn Littleton, watershed coordinator. “We’re asking people to come early.”

The hour-long workshop will include a presentation by the Alabama Department of Public Health about how septic systems work and how they are maintained.

“They want everyone who receives a voucher to get a little education along with it,” Littleton said.

The Alabama Onsite Wastewater Board will provide a list of licensed pumpers that serve the Chilton County area. Residents are encouraged to check to see which pumpers are participating in the voucher program.

Each voucher will be good for 90 days. The amount of the voucher should be taken directly off the homeowner’s bill. All sludge will be treated and processed by the city of Calera.

“It’s not a rebate,” Littleton explained. “You won’t have to send something in to receive your $250.”

Someone who is not able to attend the workshop, such as an elderly person, may send someone to represent them, Littleton said.

For more information, contact Littleton at (205) 217-2592 or by e-mail at littgn@yahoo.com.