The Hamilton County WWTA has hired Michael Patrick as the new WWTA Engineering Project Manager/Chief Engineer. 

Patrick most recently worked as the Director, Waste Resources Division for the City of Chattanooga where he was responsible for the overall operation of the City of Chattanooga Regional Wastewater Collection and Treatment system. 

“We are extremely excited to add Michael to the team,” said WWTA Executive Director Mark Harrison. “His work experience will be very valuable to the WWTA.”

In his new position, Patrick will oversee all engineering projects including design, construction documentation, surveying, bid and construction administration and perform the managerial, supervisory and administrative functions of the engineering design section.

“Michael’s vast experience made him the obvious choice for the position,” said Mike Moon, WWTA Board Chairman. “We are excited about his addition to our team and look forward to working with him.”

                                                                                       Michael Patrick

Encourages Customers to Reach Out Directly to WWTA in Times of Need

The Hamilton County WWTA has some tips for customers experiencing sewer issues, beginning with the most important:  Call us first.  The WWTA notes that sometimes customers will reach out to their particular city or municipality regarding sewer issues instead of reaching out for immediate assistance by the WWTA. 

WWTA Executive Director Mark Harrison said, “Sewer issues are never fun; however, there’s a way to have those issues addressed in a more efficient and effective manner and that’s by calling us first.  If it’s our responsibility, we’ll get the repairs scheduled as quickly as possible, usually within a day of receiving the call.  If it’s an issue for another entity, our customer service team will be able to provide the proper office to call along with the number.  We’re happy to help those experiencing problems with their sewer service.” 

He noted several other helpful pieces of information for customers:

• Office hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m.
• Customers can always contact the WWTA via email at WWTA@HamiltonTN.gov
• For questions with billing, customers may call:  423-209-7808
• The WWTA has a 24-hour hour Pay-By-Phone Line:  1-844-657-2837
• For General Questions regarding permits, sewer availability, etc., customers may call 423-209-7842
• For questions regarding emergency sewer overflows, 423-209-6408
• Grinder Pump and Step System Service Calls are accessed by calling:  423-209-6409
• Still looking for an answer?  The WWTA’s website has been updated to make searching easier than ever:  wwta.hamiltontn.gov

“Our mission is to provide reliable, courteous and low-cost sewer service within our service area to promote economic development, eliminate health problems and protect the environment.  It’s a privilege for us to serve so many in Hamilton County and we want to do all we can to make accessing our services as easy as possible,” said Harrison.

After a total of 24 years of serving devotedly on the Hamilton County Water and Wastewater Treatment Authority (WWTA) Board of Commissioners, Ed Watt is set to retire at July's monthly board meeting.

Ed Watt joined the Hamilton County Water and Wastewater Treatment Authority Board of Commissioners in September 1993 when the WWTA was first created.

During Watt’s tenure, Hamilton County has experienced commercial and residential growth in many of the service areas of the WWTA.  Watt’s expertise as an engineer and long time County resident has been invaluable to the leadership he has provided.  

WWTA Board Chairman Mike Moon or WWTA Executive Director Mark Harrison said, “From challenges with aging infrastructure to educating the public about the mission of the organization, Ed Watt has provided consistent leadership and dedication to the WWTA.”

In addition to being on the WWTA Board of Commissioners, Watt held the title of Executive Vice President of Volkert & Associates from 1996 to 2002.  From 1985 to 1995, he was President of Watt & Estes, an engineering consulting company where he was responsible for project management, traffic and transportation projects, and business development.

Hamilton County Mayor Jim Coppinger said, “Ed Watt is a true example of citizen leadership. His commitment and dedication have provided a strong foundation for the organization’s future and we offer him our sincerest thanks for a job well done.”