Millen awarded $99,623 grant
By Deborah Bennett Millen News Editor

The City of Millen is the recipient of a Georgia Fund sewer grant in the amount of $99,623. The grant, approved by the Georgia Environmental Facilities Authority (GEFA) and Gov. Sonny Perdue, will be used to finance a sewer extension project to 18 residents on Jeanette Drive who are presently using sep- tic tanks. Residents in the area had previously requested that the city extend sewer services to them due to problems they were having with their septic tanks.

The total cost of the project is $99,623.

"The Georgia Fund program is a tangible commitment by Gov. Perdue and the General Assembly to assist local governments across the state with their efforts to provide clean water and sewer improvements," said Chris Clark, GEFA executive director. "In addition to the public's health and safety, these projects are critical to communities across Georgia and to their ability to prosper economically."

Clark expressed appreciation to Gov. Sonny Perdue, State Senator J.B. Powell and State Representative Jon Burns for their support. He credited Gov. Perdue's commitment to helping Georgia cities and counties finance infrastructure development as one of the main contributors to GEFA's success

"Infrastructure improvements increase the quality of life for Georgia citizens, and they help cities and counties create jobs and promote economic development," said Governor Perdue. "I'm pleased these investments are being made in water and sewer infrastructure."

The Georgia Fund is a state funded program administered by the GEFA for water, wastewater and solid waste infrastructure projects. The program provides loans and grants to local governments for projects such as water and sewer lines, treatment plants, pumping stations, wells, water storage tanks and water meters. Low interest loans from this program range from $20,000 to $50 million.

Governor Perdue recommended and the General Assembly approved Amended FY2008 and FY2009 budget appropriations of $120 million for water infrastructure and reservoir development.