Livingston commission directs city manager to seek federal funds for water, underpass stormwater and public safety equipment

The Livingston City Commission voted unanimously March 3 to direct the city manager to submit three congressionally directed spending requests after staff said Senator Sheehy’s appropriations staff had signaled interest in projects that advance water and public safety.

City Manager Grant Gager told commissioners that conversations with federal staff suggested the city’s best prospects would be projects that address water system replacement and public‑safety needs rather than ceremonial or small beautification requests. “Regional water projects were very, very favorably received by Senator Sheehy’s staff,” Gager said.

The three projects the commission authorized staff to pursue are: - A regional water project to replace and expand water mains serving the Green Acres/Montague area (preliminary engineering estimated the project at roughly $6 million), - Main/B Street underpass stormwater improvements (an illustrative estimate in staff materials of about $750,000 for upsizing pipes and pretreatment), and - Public‑safety equipment and radio/dispatch upgrades, including repeater and radio system improvements and replacement police vehicles.

Commissioner discussion emphasized likelihood and impact. Several commissioners said the regional water project would relieve long‑standing infrastructure costs for a neighborhood already subject to paired sewer projects; others supported the underpass work because it addresses a recurring flooding and safety hazard. The motion was made by Commissioner Wilcox, seconded by Commissioner O'Neil, and the roll call vote was 5–0 in favor.

Vote on motion to direct city manager to submit requests: Motion: direct the city manager to submit congressionally directed spending requests for the regional water project, the Main/B Street underpass stormwater improvements, and public safety equipment. Mover: Commissioner Wilcox. Second: Commissioner O'Neil. Vote: 5 yes, 0 no.

Next steps: staff will complete applications and submit them through the senator’s portal as directed; Gager said staff will prioritize the regional water application while also preparing the other two requests.