Pastor Caleb Sparrow appeared before a regular City CHeavy rains have repeatedly caused the city’s sanitary sewer system to back up, flooding basements in a Colchester neighborhood — including the First Baptist Church at 301 East South Street.
Pastor Caleb Sparrow addressed the City Council Monday, describing ongoing health, safety, and property damage concerns from sewage flooding in the church basement. He said the problem has persisted since at least the mid-2000s.
“The church basement is the lowest point in this area, so it bears the brunt of the backups,” Sparrow said. “There have been times when sewage, including pieces of excrement, has surfaced on the floor. It’s a serious health hazard.”
The church has taken several steps to mitigate the flooding. First, they installed a one-way check valve to prevent backflow. When that failed, they added a manual cut-off valve. But Sparrow explained that shutting off the system renders all bathroom facilities unusable and simply shifts the problem to other nearby basements.
Flooding incidents continue. Just two months ago, heavy rains caused backups that flooded neighboring basements. Alderman David Frost noted the system has “some weak points” that need attention.
Alderman Frances Welch, chair of the Building and Grounds Committee, along with Frost and Alderman Kim Limkeman, agreed to meet next week to explore solutions. They plan to discuss options such as replacing pipes, costs, and timelines.
No votes were taken during Monday’s meeting.
