North Dakota DEQ outlines funding options for wastewater projects in Lincoln and Fessenden

During a recent meeting of the North Dakota Senate Appropriations Committee, significant discussions centered on funding for wastewater projects in communities such as Washburn, Fessenden, and Lincoln. The committee explored the potential use of the state revolving fund to support these projects, which are crucial for local infrastructure.

The conversation highlighted a proposed House Bill aimed at creating grant funding for wastewater initiatives. However, committee members expressed concerns about the sustainability of grant funding, suggesting that a low-interest loan fund might be a more effective solution. David Rupeshwein, director of the Division of Municipal Facilities at the North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality, explained that the existing Clean Water State Revolving Fund (SRF) already provides loans for wastewater projects. This program allows for the recycling of funds as loans are repaid, enabling ongoing support for future projects.

The committee noted that recent cuts to federal funding for infrastructure projects have heightened the urgency of finding alternative financing solutions. Rupeshwein confirmed that the three discussed projects are eligible for SRF funding, with Lincoln and Fessenden already on the priority list. Washburn, which had previously dropped off the list after receiving other funding, could also be reinstated.

The implications of losing federal funding were underscored, particularly for communities struggling to finance infrastructure improvements. Rupeshwein indicated that local residents might face increased utility bills if projects are funded solely through local assessments, making the need for state support even more pressing.

As the committee deliberates on the best approach to funding these essential projects, the potential for state funds to be integrated into the SRF program remains a topic of discussion. The outcome of these deliberations will directly impact the ability of local communities to maintain and improve their wastewater infrastructure, ultimately affecting the quality of life for residents across North Dakota.