Did You Pay for Your Own Grinder Pump?

You May Have Missed Out on Federal Relief Funds

Who’s Affected:

If you bought or maintained a grinder pump anytime since 2010, you may have been denied federal money meant to cover those costs. 

 What the Grants Said:

Funds were to relieve homeowners from grinder pump costs. • Yet the Utility Board still made citizens pay thousands out of pocket. 

 What Happened:

After Katrina & the BP spill, Bayou La Batre got millions in grants. • Board minutes confirm: money was meant for grinder pumps & sewer hookups. • Instead, homeowners and businesses paid for their own. 

How Much Was Received:

GO MESSA 2020: $400k leftover.

RESTORE Act 2023: $14.5M awarded.

Other RESTORE/CIAP grants (2013–2020): millions more.

Why It Matters:

Federal relief was for YOU — but you paid twice:   Through federal funds, and   Again from your pocket.   The money was there. You just never got it.

Next Step:

 If this happened to you, speak up. You may still recover what’s yours.

We demand that:

1. The Utility Board repay affected residents and businesses who were forced to pay for grinder pumps and maintenance despite federal funds being available.

2. A full and transparent accounting of all federal and city funds received since 2010, with documentation showing how the money was spent.

3. Oversight measures be put in place to ensure grant funds are used properly for the benefit of citizens going forward.   The money was there to help us. We never got it. Now it’s time to make it right.

 Please sign our petition and give any comments we might find useful for our cause!