FAIRMONT - The city of Fairmont wants $15 million in federal funds to help pay for a new water treatment plan. City leaders are asking residents for help.
The deadline is 5 p.m. today to write to Congressman Tim Walz, D-Minn., to tell him why Fairmont should receive funding. Walz is holding a virtual meeting through his Web site and making a recommendation for the funding based on feedback he receives.
A link to Walz's Web site, with instructions for making comments is posted at www.fairmont.org
"It is very important that you take a minute to comment on this project as it will have a significant impact on the outcome of our request," said Troy Nemmers, Public Works director.
The design for the plant is under way through Advanced Engineering and Environmental Services. The estimated cost of the building, including purchasing the site and restoring the existing plant's shoreline, is $30 million.
The city has explored renovating the current facility, but with portions of the plant dating 80 years, no room for expansion and stricter treatment mandates on the horizon, the idea was nixed in favor of building new.
"This is something the city needs, and we're not going to be able to put if off forever," Nemmers said.
Residents already are sharing the burden, with water rates increasing 50 percent the past two years. Another 25 percent hike is slated for 2011 and again for 2012 to pay for the plant.
"Basic-ally, the ultimate end result is rates will double from 2008-2012 in order to meet the cost of the $30 million construction project," Nemmers said. "... By getting this federal funding, it would help minimize the impact on residents and businesses in Fairmont."
Citizens are asked when writing their letters to Walz to include information about why the new water plant is necessary for Fairmont; what effect the increased water rates will have on them and the community; and how much their annual utility bills will increase due to the rate hikes.
Fairmont's water treatment plant is Application 6 out of 99.
"There's a lot of competition, and that's just in Congressman Walz's district," Nemmers said. "The more comments we can get from the public the better ... so we can try to improve our odds."
The city also has appealed to U.S. Sens. Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., and Al Franken, D-Minn., for financial assistance with the project.
Federal funds are the first choice to pay for the plant, but other options are available through the state.
The city likely will apply for a loan from Minnesota Public Facilities Authority, with the possibility a portion of the loan could be forgiven with the state Legislature's approval.