Submitted
The Ellis County Environmental Department has recently been awarded a $50,000 grant from KDHE and the LEPP (Local Environmental Protection Program). This grant will cover 85% of onsite wastewater system repair/replacement cost for households with income between 134% and 200% of the 2023 Federal Poverty Level. This grant will also cover 100% of onsite wastewater system repair/replacement for households with income of 133% or less of 2023 Federal Poverty Levels.
This program will cover repair or replacement costs for failing wastewater systems owned and operated by low-income households within Ellis County Kansas. Replacement of these failing systems will protect surface and groundwater resources that low-income communities rely on for safe drinking water.
This LEPP Grant will be utilized for the repair/replacement of failing onsite wastewater systems. This grant will help accomplish long term goals established in Bulletin 4-2:
Minimum Standards for Design and Construction of Onsite Wastewater Systems, including:
• Ensuring the quality of surface and groundwater is protected for drinking water, recreation, aquatic life support, irrigation, and industrial uses.
• Ensure a breeding place or habitat will not be created for insects, rodents, and other vectors that may later contact food, people, pets, or drinking water.
• Prevent wastewater from being exposed on the ground surface where it can be contacted by children and/or pets, creating a significant health hazard.
• State and Federal laws and local regulations governing water pollution or wastewater disposal will be met.
• Nuisance conditions or obnoxious odors and unsightliness will be avoided.
The Ellis County Environmental Department will be the sponsoring organization. If you or someone you know possibly meet the criteria above, please contact the Environmental Department for an application and to discuss requirements. The funds will be distributed on a first-come first-served basis. The funds will carry over into future years and depending on need, may be replenished yearly with the grant application process.
The Ellis County Environmental Department can be reached at 785.628.9449 or by emailing [email protected].