New water treatment plant may get federal funds

Forsyth should know later this year if it will get 500,000 in federal funding to help build a new water treatment plant. Projected cost for design and construction of the two-story facility is between 3.5 and 4.2 million, and the goal is to have the plant in operation by 2005.

The Village has a “good chance to get in the final version of the bill,” according to Tim Butler, press secretary for Congressman Ray LaHood (R-Peoria), a member of the House Appropriations Committee. The bill is now in the Senate after LaHood helped secure funds in a House-passed bill July 25 for several Central Illinois sewer and water projects, including one for Forsyth and Oreana.

“One of the most pressing needs of our rural communities is the updating or construction of water and sewer systems,” LaHood said. “These systems are typically very expensive and cash-strapped rural communities have a hard time funding these important projects.”

“The regional aspect is what brought us (Forsyth and Oreana) together,” said Village Administrator Cheryl Lehman. “These types of grants are not always regional but it makes them more attractive than if only one town applies.” Oreana is seeking 250,000 for a water main and booster pumping station.

Butler said Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) funding for both Forsyth and Oreana communities could also be available to assist with the regional water system. Village trustees approved pursuing a low-interest EPA loan at their Aug. 18 meeting, along with considering an alternate revenue bond as a secondary source of funding if necessary.

Mayor Hap Gilbert said the new plant will produce more than two million gallons daily with daily usage expected to be one million gallons. “Even with our population growth, we have a good source of water to carry us into the future,” he said.

Supplying nearby villages with water is an option that has been discussed for years, he said, although no arrangements have been made at this time to sell Forsyth’s water. However, Oreana Mayor Dan Lightner has expressed an interest in a formal agreement, and Argenta Mayor Brad Hunter also told Gilbert he is willing to look at the figures for buying water for his community. Each community uses 75,000 to 100,000 gallons each day.