The division is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the wastewater treatment plant. There are currently 14 employees in the division with an annual budget of 1.2 million. The City of New Bern's Wastewater Treatment Plant was originally constructed in 1964. In 1991 a second treatment train was added. A state certified wastewater laboratory is located on site.
Testing is done on both the influent and effluent for plant efficiency and monitoring process.
Sludge from the plant is treated by an anaerobic digester system. The sludge is land applied under a sludge application permit by contracted sludge disposal professionals. The City adopted a sewer use ordinance complying with Federal and State Regulations governing publicly owned treatment works. The sewer use ordinance outlines acceptable connections, policies and procedures for connection to the system. The City adopted a Pretreatment Program to monitor large or unusual discharges into the system.