Agencies with both loan and grant funds are concerned with identifying priorities for project funding. Demand for funds has greatly exceeded funding resources in recent years. Federally funded programs are facing some decreases in the next few years, making prioritization even more important. In addition to providing rules and guidelines for eligibility, federally funded programs also establish procedures for determining priority. However, there is some flexibility at the state level in choosing the priority of projects funded.
Funding agencies desire to fund projects with long-term impact.
Funding agencies want to avoid projects that may be a more costly alternative, abandoned in the near future, or duplicate solutions that are already available. In using grant funds, agencies include in this concern the importance of choosing the most economical solution to the water system needs while considering both immediate and long-term costs. Recommendation for Funding Agencies Based on the funding agencies' concerns, responses voiced during The IOWA Plan public meetings, and information about water systems as contained in other portions of this Plan, the following recommendations should be considered by the identified funding agencies. Funding agencies should continue to maintain and improve regular communication during application cycles to coordinate on projects that request funding from more than one source. Funding agencies should continue to share lists of water related project applicants to avoid possible duplication of project funding and enhance the financial packaging of projects.