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municipalauthorities.org | 11 prepares your utility to move forward by building momentum. Persistence is key in the world of grants. Get in line now, and don’t hesitate to get back in line again. The Erie Water Works is making historic investments to eradicate lead pipes from the public water system by the end of 2027. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) has provided a once-in-a- generation opportunity for Erie to significantly accelerate the replacement of lead pipes. Since 2021, Erie Water Works has received over $49M in federal awards with $39.8M in grants and $9.4M in low interest loans through PENNVEST, with the BIL providing most of those funds. Traditional funding mechanisms for this level of spending would have resulted in over $40M in additional interest payments, and more than a 10% impact on water rates! No amount of lead is safe, and although Erie Water maintains exceptional corrosion control treatment to prevent lead from leaching into the water system, our philosophy is simple and steadfast; GET THE LEAD OUT. Over the past 20 years, the team at Erie Water Works has removed over 5,800 lead goosenecks. As a result of the BIL funding, we will be replacing the remaining lead lines 400% faster. At the typical rate, it would have taken at least 25 more years to remove our lead piping. And now, it’s going to take less than 5 years. Invest in Your People: The Ultimate Resource For the Erie Water Works, water may be our most important natural resource, but our people are our greatest asset. Investing in the growth, training, and development of the WHOLE team pays long-term dividends. To be clear: I’m not just talking about your management team. I’m talking about the whole team. A skilled, motivated workforce is essential to operating efficiently, responding to challenges, and driving innovation. And the WHY matters. Tell your team why their contributions matter. And whether it’s through technical training, team-building initiatives, or leadership development, empowering your people strengthens your entire organization, which will help the bottom line. Revenue Generating Opportunities: Unlocking New Streams of Income Leasing Space for Cell Antennas on Tanks Water towers are prime real estate for telecommunications companies. By leasing space on tanks (or other assets) for cellular antennas, authorities can generate steady, predictable revenue without impacting operations. These leases can help offset costs and contribute to overall financial stability. Leverage Economies of Scale: Provide Billing Services for Others Authorities with sophisticated billing systems can offer these services to smaller utility providers. We currently provide billing services for six sewer authorities as well as refuse billing for three municipalities. Everyone wins. By leveraging existing infrastructure and expertise, authorities can generate additional revenue while supporting neighboring municipalities. Maybe billing isn’t your superpower; find what is and evaluate whether or not you can leverage it. Power Shedding Agreements: Get Paid to Conserve Energy Power shedding agreements allow water authorities to get paid for temporarily reducing their energy usage at strategic locations during peak demand times. By agreeing to shift power supply to an onsite source like a generator, or pausing treatment operations, authorities can earn compensation from utility companies. This approach not only generates revenue but also contributes to overall energy grid stability. Purposeful actions like this can help build resiliency into our critical infrastructure. Cost Reduction Opportunities: Cutting Costs Without Sacrificing Quality Consider Alternative Energy: Reduce Operating Costs Exploring renewable energy options, such as solar or wind, can lead to significant cost savings over time. Water treatment plants and pump stations are energy-intensive Continued on page 41.