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III Grants Funds for homeland security improvements Lourdes Sanchez The LMCIT Board oITrustees has approved expanding the bleacher improvement financing prograro to include city capital improvements for purposes of security and emergency preparedness. The same $3 million from the property/casualty program's fund balance dedicated to the bleacher improvement program will be used fur the newly expanded purpose. In a recent survey, cities told the League they are making security improvements to city buildings and facilities in recognition of possible threats after the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11. Not all of these perceived dangers are a result of "terrorist" activities. Many cities have simply come to recognize dangers that have existed all along----for instance a chemical leak or industrial spill, or contamination of the city's water supply. These kinds of security improvements could present a short- term financing issue for some cities. This program may help cities make those improvements by providing a low interest loan of3 percent, repaid over a period not to exceed 5 years. Some of the types of improve- ments cities might consider under this program include: . Security system or contaminant alert system fur water distribution and treatment facilities . Equipment to protect city com- puter systems . Protective equipment for first responders . Security improvements for city buildings and facilities As we continue to refine the loan application process, we would like to hear from cities about other kinds of improvements they would like considered under this loan program. Please contact LMCIT Associate Administrator Ann Gergen at (651) 281-1291 or agergen@lnmc.org'k $90 million available for water utility security upgrades EPA Administrator Christie Whitman recently addressed the Association of Metropolitan Water Agencies where she emphasized EPA's commitment to assist local utilities in safeguarding the nation's water systems. Whitman detailed a nearly $90 million national effort that EPA, working with many partners. is undertaking to make drinking water and wastewater utilities safe as quickly as possible. Whimun also discussed clean water issues facing the nation such as non-point source pollution and watershed protection. The largest drinking water systems, those regularly serving more than 100,000 people, will be eligible to apply fur grants to support comple- tion of vulnerability assessments and other security planning. Since Sept. 11, water systems across the county have been on heightened alert and increased security measures. These vulnerability assessments will help systems under- take a more in-depth, comprehensive analysis. As a result, they will identify theit potential vulnerabilities and security upgrades. Collectively, these large systems provide service to nearly half of Americans served by pnblic water systems. EPA will work cooperatively with states, tribes, and appropriate organi- zations to further develop and dissemi- nare tools and support security efforts at small and medium drinking water and wastewater systems. The nearly $90 million was appropriated by Congress in an FY 2002 supplemental. Requests for applications for the grants will be distributed in the upcoming weeks. k April 24, 2002 Page 9