Washington Evening Journal
111 North Marion Avenue
Washington, IA 52353
319-653-2191
Some Washington County houses qualify for state sewer funds
Kalen McCain
Mar. 31, 2022 9:04 am
After Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds allocated $75 million in ARPA funds to the Iowa Finance Authority for water infrastructure projects, Washington County Environmental Health Director Jason Taylor said some homes in the county could qualify for the state aid.
"In the southeast corner of the county there are about nine properties that qualify for that, and in the town of Haskins, just north of Ainsworth, that would have about five,“ Taylor said. ”The only downside is the property owner will be liable in taxes for the money they get.“
That said, the grants come with several conditions. Eligible homes, for example, must be owner-occupied as a primary residence, must not be served by a centralized water treatment system, must have finished construction prior to July 1, 1983 and must not have transferred ownership since July 1, 2009, among other requirements.
While the lengthy list of criteria narrows the list considerably, those that do qualify are eligible for substantial cash.
“Grant awards may fund all costs directly related to the design, permitting and construction of the private sewage disposal system,” a fact sheet from IFA said. “Eligible costs include the removal of existing structures, such as abandoned septic tanks and earth moving related to proper wastewater treatment.”
Those interested can contact the Washington County Environmental Health office to determine eligibility and arrange an application.
Comments: Kalen.McCain@southeastiowaunion.com