Though not all RDOs have specific programs with small water systems, those that do can bring a range of expertise to bear on problems beyond GIS mapping. PADD also serves the region’s small water systems by maintaining a dashboard of system performance metrics and makes annual site visits to ensure data quality. It has helped disseminate information about water issues specific to the region, including challenges related to maintenance of aging clay water pipes. Most importantly, it has responded to a state and federal push for regionalization by developing expertise in grant and loan application management for small water systems.
PADD’s approach to funding applications has two main facets: direct technical assistance and the development of a process for regional coordination to prioritize highest-need projects. Staff maintain expertise on the changing grant and loan opportunities available from state and federal agencies. Moreover, they disseminate best practices for grant writing and administrative practices and use data and site visits to help systems determine what improvements should be prioritized.
In order to increase the competitiveness of small water systems funding applications, PADD has also created the Pennyrile Water Management Council, a board tasked with evaluating and prioritizing needs at a regional scale. The Council, made up of mayors, judges, system managers, and health department officials, meets quarterly to vote on project priorities. Their certifications increase the competitiveness of applications and ensure that money is spent responsibly on the small water systems. Through this regional approach, PADD works to promote efficiency, keep costs down for consumers, improve water quality, and break down barriers between municipalities in the pursuit of funding opportunities.
To learn more about regional development organizations (RDOs) like the Pennyrile Area Development District and how they can support your own local planning and infrastructure efforts, visit www.nado.org. If your community is not yet connected with your RDO or you are unsure which RDO serves where you live, please reach out to NADO Research Foundation Associate Director Brett Schwartz at [email protected].