Copy of City Utility/Sewer Maintenance

City Utility/Sewer Maintenance

The City Utility Sewer Maintenance Department is responsible for maintaining Sullivan’s sanitary sewer system and ensuring wastewater is transported safely and efficiently throughout the community. Our team works year round to inspect, repair, and monitor sewer infrastructure, respond to service calls, and support residents and businesses with reliable, environmentally responsible wastewater services. We are committed to protecting public health, preventing system disruptions, and keeping our city’s utility operations running smoothly.

Tony Burkhart leads the City Utility Sewer Maintenance Department, overseeing the daily operation, repair, and upkeep of Sullivan’s sanitary sewer system. He and his crew work to keep wastewater moving safely away from homes and businesses, protect public health, and maintain reliable service throughout the city.

What We Do

The City Utility Sewer Maintenance Department is responsible for maintaining the public sewer system and supporting the safe and efficient movement of wastewater. Typical duties include:

Inspecting and maintaining sewer mains, manholes, and related infrastructure
Cleaning sewer lines to reduce blockages and backups
Operating and maintaining lift stations and other critical sewer equipment
Responding to sewer related service calls and emergencies
Assisting with repairs to public sewer lines and coordinating with contractors on larger projects
Locating and marking sewer lines for construction or utility work
Monitoring the system to help prevent overflows and protect the environment

How We Serve Residents

The department works closely with residents, businesses, and contractors to keep the system functioning properly and to respond quickly when problems arise. Common ways we assist include:

Investigating reports of possible sewer backups
Checking public lines to determine if an issue is in the city system or on private property
Providing information about proper sewer connections and cleanouts
Coordinating with other city departments during street or utility projects to protect sewer infrastructure

If you notice a sewer related problem such as unusual odors, slow drains in multiple fixtures, or signs of a backup that might be related to the city main, contact the department as soon as possible.

Utility Sewer/Maintenance Department

City Hall

110 North Main Street

Sullivan, Indiana 47882

Phone: 812-268-6077

For nonemergency sewer questions or concerns, please call during regular business hours (8 AM - 4 PM). For urgent sewer issues that may affect health or safety, contact the appropriate after hours number - 812-564-1161.

Helpful Tips for Residents

Residents play an important part in keeping the sewer system working well. Here are some basic guidelines:

Do not flush wipes of any kind, even if they are labeled flushable
Avoid pouring grease, oil, or fat down sinks or drains
Keep clear access to your sewer cleanout if you have one
Report sewer odors, sinkholes near manholes, or signs of overflow right away
When hiring a plumber or contractor, make sure they understand local sewer connection requirements

These simple steps can reduce backups, protect your home, and help the city avoid expensive emergency repairs.