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

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