RCAC helps Yerington, Nevada secure nearly $35 million to replace its water and sewer distribution systems

Where: City of Yerington, Nevada

Problem: Rural communities struggle to access funding for utility improvements that ensure public health

Solution: Rural Community Assistance Corporation (RCAC) staff helped the city of Yerington secure nearly $35 million in grants and loans

Yerington is in Lyon County, Nevada. With a population just more than 3,000, the median household income is $31,151.

In July and August, RCAC staff worked with U.S. Department of Agriculture, private lenders, and the city of Yerington to secure $32.8 million in loans and $1.4 million in grants to replace the city’s water and sewer distribution systems. USDA obligated the funds but could not distribute them unless the city passed a budget by August 31, 2020 that provided funding for all requirements for both USDA and the private lenders.

RCAC worked with USDA staff, lenders and the Yerington staff to develop a realistic budget with incremental rate increases that fulfilled all obligations and is expected to raise an additional $558,921 for drinking water and $509,655 for sewer during the next seven years.

The project will replace all major components of its water and wastewater systems and create a permanent connection to the Yerington Tribe. On Sept. 29, 2020, RCAC staff were onsite for the groundbreaking ceremony.