Funding Request for Safe Drinking Water in Ely Township

Introduction

State Representative Karl Bohnak (R-Deerton) and Ely Township Supervisor Jeremey Laasko have jointly advocated for critical funding to upgrade the Greenwood Water System Water Treatment Facility. This initiative aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation, aiming to ensure availability and sustainable management of water for all residents.

Background and Current Challenges

• The Greenwood water system currently serves 141 households in Ely Township.
• Elevated manganese levels in the water pose potential health risks, especially to infants under 12 months.
• Due to contamination, the township is compelled to provide bottled water to affected households, which is neither sustainable nor cost-effective.

Funding Proposal

Ely Township is requesting $1.9 million in state funding to upgrade the water treatment facility. The project involves constructing a new housing facility for sand filters designed to remove manganese from the water supply, thereby improving water quality for all residents.

Significance and Impact

1. Health and Safety: The upgrade will reduce health risks associated with manganese contamination, supporting SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being.
2. Environmental Sustainability: Eliminating the need for bottled water reduces plastic waste and environmental impact, contributing to SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.
3. Community Well-being: Providing reliable access to clean water enhances quality of life and supports SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.

Statements from Officials

• Jeremey Laasko, Ely Township Supervisor: “This project would be huge for the people in Greenwood and the burden that would be taken off their shoulders would be amazing.”
• Rep. Karl Bohnak: “No parent should have to question the safety of the water coming out of their tap. Supplying bottled water is not a long-term solution. It’s costly, unsustainable, and not healthy for our community.”

Legislative Process

Rep. Bohnak has submitted the funding request through the House Appropriations process as a Legislatively Directed Spending item. More details can be accessed here.

Conclusion

The proposed funding and upgrade of the Greenwood Water System Water Treatment Facility are vital steps toward achieving sustainable access to safe drinking water in Ely Township. This initiative supports multiple Sustainable Development Goals by promoting health, environmental sustainability, and community resilience.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation – The article focuses on improving access to safe and clean drinking water by upgrading the water treatment facility to remove manganese contamination.
2. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – By addressing water contamination, the article touches on reducing health risks associated with unsafe drinking water, especially for infants.
3. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – The project aims to improve infrastructure in Ely Township, contributing to sustainable community development.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs Identified

1. SDG 6 Targets:
   • 6.1 – Achieve universal and equitable access to safe and affordable drinking water for all.
   • 6.3 – Improve water quality by reducing pollution and minimizing the release of hazardous chemicals.
2. SDG 3 Targets:
   • 3.9 – Reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and pollution, including contaminated water.
3. SDG 11 Targets:
   • 11.6 – Reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including improving water quality and infrastructure.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. Indicator for SDG 6.1: Proportion of population using safely managed drinking water services. The article implies measuring the number of households with access to treated, safe water after the upgrade.
2. Indicator for SDG 6.3: Proportion of wastewater safely treated and concentration of contaminants in water bodies. The article focuses on removing manganese, an emerging contaminant, indicating monitoring manganese levels in water.
3. Indicator for SDG 3.9: Mortality rate attributed to unsafe water, unsafe sanitation, and lack of hygiene. The article highlights health risks to infants, implying tracking health outcomes related to water quality.
4. Indicator for SDG 11.6: Annual mean levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and other pollutants in cities. While not directly mentioned, improving water infrastructure contributes to reducing environmental hazards in the community.

4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: gophouse.org