Washburn Services
Black Hawk County provides sanitary sewer services and a water distribution system in the Washburn community. The County contracts with a third-party service to maintain the sanitary sewer services, and water is provided through Waterloo Water Works. Waterloo Water Works bills for the water and sewer fees, so that residents can make one payment for both services.
See below for relevant information regarding rules and regulations, as well as fees for service.
Sanitary Sewer Services
The topography of the Washburn area, combined with the smaller lot sizes, results in an inability to use septic systems successfully. To address this issue, a system of grinder pumps and piping to a lagoon was constructed in 1999, and septic systems were no longer permitted to be used in the area.
The Board of Supervisors sets the rate of sewer fees for the Washburn sewer system and the maintenance fee of the water system. Fees for water usage is set by the Waterloo Water Works Board of Trustees. The Board of Supervisors is discussing an increase to sewer fees, and plan to vote on August 6, 2024.
Linked below is a FAQ document & letter to residents that answers questions regarding fees and the overall sewer system.
- Washburn Sewer Fees & Services - Frequently Asked Questions
- Sewer Rate Increase Letter to Washburn Residents & Property Owners
Related Rules, Regulations, & Ordinances
The following ordinances pertain to Washburn water and sewer services. They can be found on the Black Hawk County Code publishing website, but are also linked here for convenience.
Guidelines for Sanitary Sewer Usage & Maintenance
What if I notice a problem in my home sewer system?
If you notice that your toilets aren’t flushing or water is draining very slowly or not at all, please check the alarm panel on your pump. If the light is on, please CALL Urban Services, LLC at (319) 240-3967. If the alarm light is still on and the customer doesn’t see the contractor within four hours, please call the BHC Board of Supervisors Office at (319) 833-3072 during regular business hours and we will reach out to Urban Services, LLC. Typical action time is within two hours during regular business hours.
Can my sump pump impact the sanitary sewer system?
No sump pumps (or roof downspouts, foundation drains, areaway drains, or other sources of surface runoff or ground water) should be connected to the sanitary sewer system. It can result in too much water getting into the sewer system, causing back-ups or pump problems.
What can I do to help protect the Washburn Sewer system?
There are pumps located throughout town that deliver sewage to the lagoon located on Foulk Road. Due to the nature of this pump system, there are many items that should not be flushed down a toilet, or allowed into a drain that leads to this system.
This includes but is not limited to:
- Flushable wipes
- Dental floss
- Hygiene products such as (tampons maxi pads, and their wrappers)
- Diapers (child OR adult)
- Cleaning rags
- Nails, screws, and other hardware
- Small toys such as Hot Wheels cars
Contact Information
- Sewer problems
If toilets aren't flushing or water is draining slowly. Service provided 24/7.
Urban Services, LLC | (319) 240-3967 - Water issues
For questions about water service or water/sewer billing.
Waterloo Water Works | (319) 232-6280 - Resident concerns
For questions or comments regarding sewer fees and service.
Board of Supervisors | (319) 833-3072