SURFSIDE BEACH – The Village of Surfside Beach has received a 90-day notice from the City of Freeport to cut off its water supply services unless Surfside can figure out how to pay its overdue $400,000 water bill.
Mayor Zach Parsch of Surfside Beach explained the village’s water bill challenges stem from increased demand from a growing seasonal population. Moneywise, the city’s hurting because it had unexpected recovery costs after Hurricane Beryl.
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Parsch said Surfside Beach, typically home to around 500 residents, sees a massive population increase during the summer tourism season. That creates a higher-than-expected need for additional water from Freeport’s supply.
“When that move was made over a year ago, we had estimated usage and costs... It turns out that those estimates were low on both usage and cost to supply,” Parsch said.
Efforts to balance Surfside Beach’s budget were strained even more by the unanticipated $3.5 million cost of repairs following Beryl. While waiting for federal assistance, the village has struggled to pay its bills, including the money owed to Freeport.
Parsch explained while Surfside Beach has been in discussions with Freeport about a repayment plan, Freeport requires a firm commitment, hence the issuance of the 90-day notice.
“Both parties are working together constructively to maintain supply and payments for supply. I appreciate Freeport for their efforts to work with us through this difficult time as we continue to heal from Beryl,” Parsch said.
Both communities are expected to continue discussions to ensure uninterrupted water service for Surfside Beach’s residents and visitors.