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City commission backs Leavenworth Waterworks’ federal grant applications to modernize treatment plants
Summary
The commission approved a resolution supporting Leavenworth Waterworks’ applications under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for roughly $57 million in projects to modernize two treatment facilities; the utility said failure to secure grants could require double-digit annual rate increases.
The Leavenworth City Commission voted to support a resolution backing Leavenworth Waterworks’ federal grant applications to repair and modernize its treatment plants, staff and the utility said Friday.
Joel, a Leavenworth Waterworks representative, told the commission the utility plans two separate grant applications under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to address aging infrastructure at both plants and to protect supply as a nearby river channel continues to cut deeper. He said the total need is roughly $57 million; the utility expects some funds on hand and hopes federal grants could cover as much as half the cost.
“That's actually, we need about 57, but we've got some coming in in the bank already,” Joel said. When asked how much grant support might be obtained, he said “50% maybe.” He also told commissioners that without sufficient grant funding the utility may need to increase rates 10 to 15% per year over several years to finance work.
Staff said the resolution of support does not commit city funds. City staff recommended approving the resolution to strengthen the utility’s federal applications.
Why it matters: the work would extend the service life and reliability of municipal drinking-water treatment, potentially limiting larger long-term cost increases for customers if grants cover a large share of the projects. Joel said water-plant chemical costs and supply pressures have already increased operating costs.
The commission approved the resolution of support by unanimous vote.
Next steps: Leavenworth Waterworks will complete and submit the federal grant applications; city support is intended to show community backing in the utility’s requests to federal funders.
