By Payton Tholstrup

Governor Laura Kelly and the Kansas Water Office announced on April 16th, 2024 an $18 million investment will be going into 34 municipalities and special districts related to water in the state of Kansas. There was a total of nineteen Technical Assistance Grants and 15 Water Project Grants being awarded. The grants were made possible through the 2023 Senate Substitute for House Bill 2302. Governor Kelly signed this bill in April of 2023.

Miltonvale is a recipient of the Water Project Loan Assistance Grant. They are being given $352,5000. This grant was created to provide funding for construction, repair, maintenance, or replacement of water-related infrastructures and related construction costs. It can also be used for matching money for grant or loan applications for water-related infrastructure projects and payment towards certain loan balances.

The Fiscal Year 2025 solicitation is anticipated to open in Summer 2024.

Governor Kelly explained why this is so important to Kansans. “This investment is vital to the water resources and livelihoods of Kansas in these rural communities. By working together, we are making progress on our water crisis while ensuring communities have access to the resources, they need to address their presenting water issues.”

Kansas Representatives and Senators expressed their excitement and gratitude for the grants. “Infrastructure is always a challenge in small communities, especially with getting a local match. I’m grateful this program will help communities get the assistance they need to take action on essential water projects,” Senator Rick Billinger, Senate District 40, said.

“A critical component of expanding funding for the State Water Plan is ensuring that every Kansan has access to safe drinking water,” Representative Kenny Titus, House District 51, said. The ability to provide technical assistance and matching funds allows access to grants and funding opportunities that were previously out of reach for our smaller communities.”