NEW Water has joined a state-wide effort to reduce the financial burden of Northeast Wisconsin residents for critical wastewater and water services. Each year, area ratepayers benefit from NEW Water’s participation in the state of Wisconsin’s Clean Water Fund Program, to offset costs for financing projects. For the first time in its history, the program did not have sufficient funding for projects in 2024. Going out to market for loans can mean double the cost of financing for critical water and wastewater projects for Wisconsin families and businesses. The coalition is requesting an increase in the state’s revenue bonding authority to address this shortfall, to ensure water and wastewater infrastructure and maintenance projects can be effectively planned for, to protect public health, and save Wisconsinites money. It is important to note that no general purpose revenue (i.e., taxes) is needed to accomplish this. The clean water coalition consists of other wastewater and water utilities in Wisconsin, the Wisconsin Rural Water Association, the Municipal Environmental Group Water and Wastewater Divisions, as well as the League of Wisconsin Municipalities. NEW Water is currently engaging with municipal partners on this issue.