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State grant of $6.13 million announced for Yoder water and sewer project
Summary
Reno County Public Works announced a $6,133,100 grant to address compliance needs for two Yoder-area districts; county staff said the project had significant design and land costs already incurred and that rates for residents may rise.
Don Britton, Reno County director of public works, told commissioners the county had secured funding for a large water and sewer project serving two Yoder-area districts that had been out of compliance.
"We have received a grant for this project for $6,133,100," Britton said during the meeting, adding the total project cost is substantial and that staff had been pursuing grants and loan forgiveness to limit rate impacts on residents. Britton said the county had already spent more than $300,000 acquiring land for the project and that the design phase is complete.
Britton identified the funding application as part of the small-town water and sewer infrastructure assistance grant process and said the Department of Health (KDHE) has been in close contact during the application and design period. He cautioned that while the grant reduces the county's funding burden, local rates in the affected districts may still increase to cover remaining costs and maintenance.
Why it matters
Britton told the board the two districts' compliance issues have been long-standing and that the size of the project made external funding essential. County staff framed the award as easing a significant financial burden on district residents while acknowledging some rate increases are likely.
Next steps
Public works will move to implement the design and funding plan. Britton said staff will continue seeking grant and loan forgiveness opportunities and will work with KDHE on next steps for procurement and construction oversight.
