26-2440: Approve a resolution authorizing the City Manager to file an application with the Texas Water Development Board for a low-interest loan in an amount not to exceed $6,000,000 from the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund Lead Service Line Replacement Program for Austin Water's Galvanized Water Service Line Replacement Program. Funding: This item has no fiscal impact. The additional funding needed for this program is contingent upon available funding in future Austin Water budgets.

Description

Approve a resolution authorizing the City Manager to file an application with the Texas Water Development Board for a low-interest loan in an amount not to exceed $6,000,000 from the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund Lead Service Line Replacement Program for Austin Water's Galvanized Water Service Line Replacement Program. Funding: This item has no fiscal impact. The additional funding needed for this program is contingent upon available funding in future Austin Water budgets.

Summary

The City of Austin is seeking to secure a low-interest loan of up to $6,000,000 from the Texas Water Development Board's Drinking Water State Revolving Fund for its Galvanized Water Service Line Replacement Program. This initiative aims to comply with the EPA’s Lead and Copper Rule Revisions, which require the replacement of galvanized service lines that have been or may have been downstream of lead service lines. Approximately 770 galvanized lines have been identified citywide, affecting residents in every district except District 6. The program will allow property owners to replace their lines with reimbursements available for certain expenses. This funding will lower financing costs for Austin Water ratepayers compared to traditional financing methods, emphasizing the city's commitment to public health and safety by eliminating