URGENT – WE NEED OUR MEMBERSHIPS HELP

NYRWA is calling on our membership for urgent assistance.  We need you, our valued members, to reach out to your elected officials and ask that they write a letter to your NYS Assembly and Senate Leaders asking for their support of the Safe Water Infrastructure Action Program (SWAP) Bill S3292/A3907A, Sponsored by NYS Senator James Tedisco and Assemblyman Phillip Steck.

This bill is very similar to the successful Consolidated Local Street and Highway Improvement Program (CHIPs).  The SWAP would provide municipalities with an annual SWAP allotment for local water, sewer and stormwater infrastructure.  We are all aware that insufficient operation and maintenance (O&M) funding is a major contributor to our infrastructure issues.  This SWAP would provide a permanent source of funding, one that addresses and supports O & M activities.

We have prepared 3 documents for your use.  The first is a letter for your board explaining the SWAP Bill, the second is a sample letter you can copy and paste on your systems letterhead, and the third is a resource to look up your NYS Senate and Assembly Representatives.  The link to the documents is http://nyruralwater.org/downloads/downloads-other-materials  then scroll to the bottom of the page where it says SWAP Legislative Campaign Documents.

This is important legislation for our members, and it will take each and every one of us doing our part to ensure success!  If we can be of any assistance please do not hesitate to reach out.

Thank You,

J. Andrew Herman, CEO

New York Rural Water Association