Water works seeks SRF funding for gooseneck removal; field hearing drew public objections

Staff told the Michigan City Water Works Board on July 14 that the utility will send a letter to the Indiana Finance Authority indicating interest in State Revolving Fund (SRF) financing for a gooseneck removal project and outlined an anticipated timeline linked to the utility's ongoing rate case.

The staff member said the utility intends to complete due diligence and aim to be in position to open bids in mid-February 2027 and close on a loan March 24, 2027, but that the utility does not plan to draw SRF funds until its rate-case finances are settled. The staff member explained the SRF arrangement functions similarly to a line of credit: the utility expresses interest and borrows only when needed.

Staff also summarized a recent field hearing connected to the rate case. Three members of the public attended the hearing; two people spoke against the proposed increase, raising objections that prices were rising and that they believed notice had been inadequate. The staff member said all statements at the hearing were taken under oath and that the utility followed the required notice and regulatory procedures. The staff member characterized the level of comment as consistent with previous hearings and said the OUCC and the administrative law judge were present to record testimony.

The board did not take a formal vote on financing at the July 14 meeting; staff said it would continue work on the rate case and would not access SRF funds until the district's rate position is set and necessary audits and permits are complete. The staff member noted a state-board-of-accounts audit and standard permitting steps as part of the timeline.