Regional environmental group wins $50,000 KDHE grant to replace failing septic systems

Bryce Cron, executive director of the Northwest Local Environmental Protection Group, briefed the Cheyenne County Board on the group's wastewater replacement program and a new $50,000 grant from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment for 2026. Cron said the funding, provided through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, is intended to repair or replace failed domestic wastewater systems and systems that no longer meet Kansas minimum standards (Kansas bulletin 4-2).

Cron explained the income-based cost-share structure: up to 100% of repair/replacement costs for applicants at or below 134% of the 2024 federal poverty guideline; 75% coverage for applicants between 134% and 200%; and 50% coverage for applicants between 200% and 300% of the guideline. The program requires homeowners to apply; inspections will determine eligibility; licensed NWLEPG installers will bid the work; and final inspections and certifications will ensure compliance with county and state standards. Funds will be awarded in order of application until the allocation is depleted.

Cron also noted the NWLEPG used $2,750 of grant funds to buy water-screening supplies to expand private-well screening and encouraged residents with older systems or cesspools to apply. He said application forms and income-level tables are available at nwlepg.org. Commissioners asked clarifying questions about program scope; Cron confirmed the program applies to septic systems and cesspools and encouraged county officials to refer eligible households.

The board did not take a vote on the grant itself; Cron presented it as an informational update and a resource for county residents.