City seeking funding assistance for proposed wastewater and drinking water improvement projects

The City of Madison is seeking state funding assistance for potential wastewater and drinking water improvement projects.  The Madison City Commission this week approved two resolutions authorizing the city’s application for financial assistance to the South Dakota Board of Water and Natural Resources.  For the wastewater improvement project, the city is seeking financing for up to six-million dollars, and for the drinking water improvement project, the city is seeking financing for up to thirteen million dollars.  

During hearings held during Monday’s city commission meeting, Pat Carey with Banner Associates discussed the projects, which are broken down into six segments, and financing options.  Carey talked about why the city is looking at the projects.

In the resolution approved by commissioners, it states that the improvements to the city’s wastewater system include also replacing clay piping and brick manholes, as well as replacing and adding storm sewer inlets. 

As far as the drinking water improvements, Carey cited similar reasons for the city’s need for the project.

The resolution approved by commissioners said some of the improvements to the water system could include replacing and installing water mains, replacing cast iron pipe, and providing needed capacity for the overall system. 

Carey said that the proposed financing could include grant and loan funds, and loan funds could possibly be re-paid by increasing sewer and water rates.  

Christina Crouse with First District Association of Local Governments told commissioners Monday also that when the State Board of Water and Natural Resources meets this spring, the city should get a financial package that then they will have the option of either accepting or denying.