Rocky Mount Today

Concerns about distressed water systems and wastewater infrastructure were the focus of discussion during a recent Rural Talk conversation program that examined potential solutions. 

The June 4 discussion featured experts and policymakers including Rep. Chuck McGrady (R-Henderson), who told the more than 200 attendees, the NC Rural Center reported, that lawmakers are working to find a solution. 

“Leadership and members in the General Assembly get it and realize how important this issue is," McGrady said, the NC Rural Center reported on June 15. "We aren’t pulling back from providing help."

Lawmakers are considering a bill that would provide $9 million into a fund for repairs or upgrades, a method to determine distressed water systems and advocating for local partnerships, NC Rural Center reported. 

“Rural water is an issue every constituent understands,” Sen. Don Davis (D-Greene) said, the NC Rural Center reported. “We must continue to seek strategic partnerships and continue making investments into these systems.”