April 11, 2026
City of Trenton, Georgia – Sewer Department Public Notice
On April 10, 2026, at approximately 2:00 PM, the City of Trenton Sewer Department identified an issue with one of the clarifier systems responsible for removing solids from wastewater. The system became clogged, resulting in a high volume of thick sludge accumulating in one of the clarifiers.
While crews worked to resolve the blockage, it became necessary to drain the affected clarifier back to the plant’s intake. This action caused the system to become temporarily overloaded, leading to an overflow from a secondary clarifier. As a result, partially treated wastewater was discharged into the freshwater outflow leading to Lookout Creek.
The overflow lasted approximately 15 to 30 minutes. Upon identifying the discharge, the plant was immediately shut down to stop the release. Crews acted quickly to clear the blockage and have since gradually restored the system to normal operations.
The City promptly notified the Georgia Department of Public Health Environmental Division and the Georgia Environmental Protection Division, as required for any discharge involving wastewater. The City is fully complying with all applicable state and federal regulations, including those set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
At this time, there is no threat to the public drinking water supply. The incident involved only a limited release of partially treated sludge into Lookout Creek.
The City of Trenton will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary in coordination with state agencies.
For additional information, please contact the City of Trenton at (706) 657-4167 Monday through Friday 8am to 4pm, or the mayor directly at the number below. You can also visit the City’s official website and social media channels.
Joseph A. Case Mayor, City of Trenton
423-718-2111