New sewer system fuels Viola growth; city asks residents to report unfinished yard work

Nearly a year after completing a long-awaited citywide sewer system, Viola officials are working to restore residents’ yards impacted by the construction.The City of Viola has budgeted $2,000 each month to repair and clean up homeowners’ yards disturbed during the three-year project. Mayor Jackie Estes said they are working on getting every homeowner’s yard back in shape following the sewer system construction.

“We appreciate everyone’s patience as we wrap up this final phase,” said Mayor Estes.

The sewer system project, which began construction in December 2020 and finished in November 2023, has been in the works for over two decades. Funding was secured following a 2016 special election in which citizens approved a 1-cent sales tax to repay a USDA loan.

Now serving all residential and commercial water customers within city limits, the sewer system has already spurred significant growth. Since its completion, Viola has seen more than 25 new housing units built and welcomed several new businesses, including a convenience store – 24Hour Fuel, the Viola Tackle & Bait Shop, Denwalts Gun Shop, Rattle Snake Barber Shop, a new Esthetician – Glow with Gloria located adjacent to the barbershop, a new daycare – Growing Kindness Daycare, and The Little Longhorn Preschool operated by Viola Schools. The Longhorn Drink Hub coming later this year will offer coffee and other drinks.

“All this growth would not have happened had it not been for the sewer system. We anticipate this growth will continue.” Estes said.

Residents who have not yet been contacted about yard restoration are urged to call City Hall at 870-458-2704. If no one answers, they should leave their name, phone number, and address for a return call.

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