Anchorage Water and Waster Water Utility (AWWU) is currently conducting the Sand Lake Area Water and Sanitary Sewer Study. This study was authorized by state funds obtained by Senator Ben Stevens and myself to bring city water and sewer to those people of the Sand Lake area who need and want such service.

Senator Ben Stevens and I have been able to obtain approximately $3.23 million from Senator Ted Stevens for Sand Lake water and sewer improvements. This money is available on a 55% Federal/45% local match basis.I believe the local portion must be funded by state dollars because of the history of this issue. It is my suspicion that the local residents will reject the improvement districts because of the high cost or because they are satisfied with their current on-site water and sewer system.

I attended the January and February meetings AWWU held as part of the study process. I was pleased with the turnout. Primarily what I heard was that people are worried about the cost, and remained concerned about the gravel pit development. One purpose of the AWWU study is to prioritize the needs of the community and to see if there is interest in the improvement districts in order to meet the local match of the federal dollars. I suspect that once again the folks in our neighborhood will reject the improvement districts because of the costs. But establishing priorities will remain important and require public support and input.

The next meeting on this issue will be held by AWWU on Monday, April 18, 2005, 6:30 p.m., at the CalvaryChurch, 3800 West 80th Avenue. Please attend to voice your opinion on where the highest priority water and wastewater services are needed. Let AWWU know which neighborhood should receive the benefits of combined federal and state funding if we are successful in obtaining the necessary appropriation.

I have requested approximately $2.5 million in state matching funds which MAY be used for the residential lines, together with the federal dollars which must be applied to the backbone lines and pump stations.

My primary goals are: 1) To help those homeowners that really need water and sewer services obtain theselines at a substantially reduced cost; and 2) Provide a plan and the backbone to service those homeowners that might be adversely affected by the gravel pit development.

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