Senate committee advances $52.5 million wastewater assistance allocation to consent calendar

A Kentucky Senate committee voted 12-0 to advance House Joint Resolution 81, sending the final $52,502,260 in the state's Wastewater Assistance (W Waters) program to the consent calendar after brief questions about how recipients will sustain operations.

Chairman McDaniel told the panel the money is the remaining balance of the fund and that the allocations follow criteria set by the Kentucky Infrastructure Authority under "KRS 224 A 320." The chairman said the funding is intended as a one-time intervention to "short circuit" compounding operational failures and get systems back to a level where they "can then operationally perform, sustain, and maintain their systems." He added, "don't come back again for another bite at the apple."

Senator Funke Frommeyer asked what plans exist to keep treated facilities in good repair after the grants are made and whether there will be a coordinated regional effort to manage ongoing costs. "What's the plan moving forward to keep them in good repair or will there be a coordinated regional effort?" she asked, saying she supports the vote but urging diligence on protocols and procedures.

Senator Webb framed the problem in historical context, citing Martin County's long role in the state's coal economy and recounting the Legislature's creation of a water and wastewater task force. "Martin County was an economic driver of this state through coal production for many years," he said, and the task force produced recommendations that the Kentucky Infrastructure Authority adopted for oversight and accountability.

After discussion, Senator Nunn moved to approve the allocation; a second was recorded. The committee recorded roll-call votes from the members present and the measure passed with 12 "I" votes and no nays. Chairman McDaniel then entertained a motion to adopt the consent agenda; Senator Boswell moved, Vice Chair Mays Bledsoe seconded, and the committee adopted the consent motion by voice vote, formally placing HJR 81 on the consent calendar.

The committee did not set specific post-award operational requirements during the meeting beyond noting that KIA considered operational factors in its recommendations. Several senators urged continued oversight and diligence to reduce the likelihood the same systems would require further assistance.

With no further business, Chairman McDaniel adjourned the meeting.