Eagle Lake Secures $1.05M in Federal Funding for a New Water Treatment Facility
The City of Eagle Lake has received $1,050,000 in federal congressionally directed funding to support the construction of a new water treatment facility. This funding was secured with the support of United States Congressman Brad Finstad, Senator Amy Klobuchar, and Senator Tina Smith.
“This funding is an important milestone for Eagle Lake,” said Mayor John Whitington. “Access to clean, safe drinking water isn’t a partisan issue, and we appreciate state and federal leaders working across the aisle to support communities like ours.”
City Administrator Jennifer Bromeland emphasized the community impact of the project. “Our goal is to deliver a safe, sustainable water system without placing unnecessary strain on residents,” Bromeland said. “That’s why securing outside funding and working collaboratively with our state and federal partners remains a top priority.”
The total estimated cost of the project is approximately $15 million, and the City will continue pursuing additional state and federal funding to reduce impacts to local ratepayers. Eagle Lake may also be eligible for up to $5 million in grant funding for emerging contaminants, as manganese is receiving higher priority under federal and state criteria.
The project is included on the Drinking Water Revolving Loan Fund Intended Use Plan, positioning the City for additional financing opportunities. Representative Luke Frederick has pledged his support for the project should a state bonding bill move forward.
The need for a new water treatment facility stems from a Minnesota Department of Health health advisory issued in 2022 related to elevated manganese levels in the City’s drinking water. While Eagle Lake’s water meets Safe Drinking Water Act standards, the current system cannot treat manganese.
To continue advancing the project, Mayor John Whitington, Council Member Beth Rohrich, and City Administrator Jennifer Bromeland will be meeting with state and federal legislators in the coming months to continue working to secure the funding needed to complete the project.
City officials will continue working with state and federal agencies and partners and will share updates as progress continues.
