PWSD No. 7 renews water supply contract with ARRA grant funds
In a ceremony on April 20, Anita J. (Janie) Dunning, state director, USDA Rural Development, presented a Certificate of Appreciation to the Public Water Supply District No. 7 of Vernon County.
The certificate was presented in recognition of PWSD No. 7 of Vernon County and their efforts to stimulate the economy by utilizing loan funds of $272,000 and a grant fund of $68,050 from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. Funds will be used to pay a connection fee to Consolidated Rural Water District No. 2 of Bourbon County, Kan. District No. 7 has been purchasing water from CRWD No. 2 under a long-term contract dating back to the mid-'70s. That 35-year contract has now expired. This project will renew the contract for an additional 35 years. This agreement allows for consistent high-quality water, which is unavailable at similar rates through other sources. District No. 2 has substantially rebuilt its delivery and storage facilities in order to provide water for the 35 year term. This renewed contract will provide the 220 users, approximately 527 residents, of western Vernon County with a consistent and safe water supply.
Tuesday's announcement was part of many Earth Day events held across Missouri this week. April 22 marks the 40th anniversary of Earth Day, which is being celebrated across the United States to acknowledge and unite the communities, organizations, and the U.S. Government for their accomplishments in providing safe and sanitary living conditions to rural residents.
"Clean water is a vital resource for every American. Unfortunately, many rural communities cannot afford the complex systems used to supply potable water to America's cities," said U.S. Representative Ike Skelton. "That is why I am pleased to support the USDA's Rural Development grant and loan for the securing of clean water for Public Water Supply District No. 7 in Vernon County. This assistance will ensure the community's reliable access to clean water for years to come."
"This is a great partnership effort when everyone works together for a common goal of meeting the needs of an environmentally safe waste disposal system," said Dunning. "This project mirrors USDA Rural Develop-ment's mission and President Obama's initiative of being committed to the future of rural communities. I want to personally thank everyone that has worked together to make this project a reality. I am pleased that so many rural households will benefit from an adequate and dependable water supply system" Dunning added, "Appreciation is also extended to our federal elected officials for supporting the USDA Rural Development programs. They have been strong proponents for the necessary funding for essential services for rural Missourians."
Anyone seeking more information about the water and wastewater programs or any other USDA Rural Development programs may visit the homepage at http://www.rurdev.gov/mo or contact the Clinton Area Office at 1306 North 2nd Street, Clinton, MO 64735 or by calling (660)885-5567 ext 5.