January 16, 2024
Contact: MaryAnna Peavey, Grants and Loans Bureau Chief, MaryAnna.Peavey@deq.idaho.gov
BOISE — The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) today announced the award of a $6,336,194 construction grant to Letha Water and Sewer District in Gem County, Idaho.
This construction project is made possible through Governor Brad Little’s Leading Idaho initiative, which directed funds to DEQ in 2023.
“Water is our most valuable resource, and we absolutely must keep up the infrastructure to ensure water is clean and plentiful for this generation and future ones. That is why we made historic investments in water quality and quantity this year as part of my ‘Leading Idaho’ plan,” Governor Little said. “These investments also could keep your property taxes low. Property taxes are determined locally but the investments we made in water and other infrastructure needs at the state level help relieve the burden on local government to cover costs of projects, improving the chances property owners won’t be burdened with the costs,” said Governor Little.
This funding will be used to construct new lagoons, rehabilitate the primary lift station, extend the force main, and add fencing.
Background
In 2023, the State of Idaho approved plans to roll out $115 million in water and wastewater infrastructure project funding, benefiting communities across Idaho through DEQ’s State Revolving Loan Fund program. This program provides low-interest loans and grants to qualified recipients to improve their drinking water and wastewater facilities. The criteria and list to expend the Leading Idaho funds are listed at https://gov.idaho.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/deq-leading-idaho-water-projects_06-2022.pdf
This construction grant represents an estimated $10,272,093 savings to the community compared to average costs for municipal general obligation debt issuances.
For more information about DEQ’s State Revolving Loan Fund Program and to learn more about this year’s funding recipients, go to DEQ’s Construction Loans page.