Quitman to apply for MSDH lead-service-line program to GIS water assets; up to $74,500 principal forgiveness

City staff recommended that Quitman apply for a Mississippi Rural Water MSDH LSL program that would GPS water meters, valves and fire hydrants, verify approximately 386 galvanized lines, and leave the town with a handheld GIS unit and training. The board approved staff filling out the application and having the mayor sign.

Presenting the proposal, staff explained the program provides a loan-forgiveness grant of up to $74,500 for systems under the 3,300-population threshold and that Mississippi Rural Water would handle application work and the field inventory. ‘‘They will GIS the meters, valves and hydrants, verify the 386 galvanized lines and determine if they meet EPA requirements,’’ staff read from the program note. The board directed staff to proceed with the application; ongoing subscription costs (roughly $20–$35/month after the first year) were noted as a modest ongoing expense.