SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO AM) - The Lewis and Clark Regional Water System’s final federal funding this year is $8.4 million dollars.
Executive Director Troy Larson says it’s disappointing considering the federal government’s share has ballooned to over $200 million dollars. He says three years ago the federal share was $194 million dollars so the annual monies aren't close to covering inflation.
Larson says the system is approaching the three state governments for advances on future federal money. He says they would be unsecured, zero percent loans to be paid back with federal money.
Larson addressed South Dakota legislators today about the proposal that the System will request in future sessions. He says a similar effort will be advanced in Des Moines. Minnesota has a $20 million dollar bonding bill in St. Paul but Larson says that may be whittled down during the session.
President Obama may announce today what he's proposing for water projects in FY 2015.