Sewer Project Update – Next Steps

As noted in our previous update, we have been working closely with the Allegan Township Board on funding options for a potential community sewer system. Earlier this fall, our application to the State of Michigan’s Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) initially ranked just outside of eligibility for 2026 funding. However, after several higher-scoring communities declined their loan offers, our project unexpectedly moved into the eligible range.

We then received very late notice that our project had been selected for a $14.1 million low-interest loan (30-year term). While this was exciting news, the State’s acceptance deadline gave us only a couple of weeks to secure resident support. State law requires the Township to demonstrate clear community approval—specifically, petition signatures from owners of more than 50% of the land area within the proposed district.

With more than 250 properties around the lake, we simply did not have enough time to contact each resident, collect signatures, and verify parcel ownership before the deadline. Because of this, the Allegan Township Board could not accept the loan during this cycle.

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Where We Go From Here

Although we were unable to meet this unexpected deadline, this does not set us back in the long run. Here are the next steps already underway:

1. Reapplying for CWSRF Funding

We have already started the process with EGLE to reapply for the next round of CWSRF grant/loan funding. Notifications for 2026–2027 awards typically occur in the summer.

2. Applying for Additional Grant Support

We have submitted an application for a $50,000 Pre-Development Accelerator Grant, which would help cover the legal and financial work needed to prepare the formal sewer district petition. We will continue pursuing additional grants to help offset project costs.

3. Completing the Proposed Sewer District

Working with the Township and outside experts, we expect to finalize the boundary of the proposed sewer district in January/February. Shortly afterward, we will share the map and begin circulating the official petition.

Both physical and electronic signature options will be available to make participation easier for all residents, including seasonal owners.

4. Positioning for Future Funding Rounds

With a completed district map and petition process ready to go, we will be in a strong position for the upcoming State and Federal funding cycles.

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I want to thank the members of the Sewer Task Force for their ongoing commitment and dedication to this effort. They have been putting in countless hours and meeting almost every week to keep this effort moving forward.

We will continue to provide updates as each step progresses and will share clear instructions when the petition process begins. Thank you for your continued engagement and support as we work toward long-term solutions for Miner Lake’s environmental health and property values.