Prill United States Environmental Protection M mAgency Sustainable Water Infrastructure & Local Officials "It is very, very difficult to run a first-class county or city on second-rate infrastructure" Commissioner Melanie Worley, Douglass County, CO Sustainable Water Infrastructure: The Bottom Line for Local Officials THE ISSUE A large percentage of drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure has or will reach the end of its useful life in the coming decade, requiring a commitment to rehabilitation and/or replacement. Also, new infrastructure built to accommodate community growth will need to be renewed overtime. THE SOLUTION Local elected officials and decision makers play a vital role in safeguarding these shared community assets and ensuring their operation over the long term. The strength of local economies and public health depend on dedication to support sustainable water infrastructure (SWI)—both today and tomorrow. Five Things You Should KNOW Five Things You Should DO The Facts The water infrastructure challenge across the country and in your community. What SWI Looks Like What it means for a water infrastructure to be "sustainable." The Benefits What SWI does for your community. Your Role The responsibilities all local officials share as stewards of your community's infrastructure wealth. Your Story Past issues, solutions, and the current state of your community's water infrastructure systems. Manage Infrastructure for the Long Term Use Asset Management to marry short-term advancements with development of a long-term infrastructure investment plan. Maximize Dollars Through Efficiency Reduce operating costs through increased efficiency. Ask for Alternative Solutions Explore innovative approaches, from renewable energy options to green infrastructure initiatives, to new technologies, and other solutions that meet your needs in better, more effective ways. TalkAbout It Build public support through education and increased awareness of water infrastructure issues. Initiate or Expand Collaboration Look across the water sector and beyond to build partnerships that save money and bolster sustainability. EPA's Sustainable Water Infrastructure for Local Officials website provides relevant information, resources, and materials, specifically designed to meet the unique needs of local officials committed to leaving a legacy of sustainable water infrastructure. To learn more, visit http://water.epa.gov/infrastructure/sustain/localofficials.cfm. EPA-832-F-10-022 | June 2011 ------- |