The Clinton Public Works Authority Receives $5,390,000 Loan for Wastewater System Improvements from the OWRB
OKLAHOMA CITY – The Clinton Public Works Authority (Authority) received approval for a $5,390,000 Financial Assistance Program (FAP) loan on Tuesday from the Oklahoma Water Resources Board (OWRB) to improve their wastewater infrastructure.
The Authority, located in Custer County, operates the community’s public wastewater system, serving more than 3,300 sewer connections. The Authority’s main sewer line—which carries wastewater to the treatment plant—has experienced structural failure and no longer meets regulatory standards, requiring timely replacement to protect system reliability and public health. The proposed project includes constructing a new lift station equipped with bar screens, which remove debris from wastewater, and installing a new force main to convey flows to the treatment plant. The project also includes building a new splitter box to safely direct incoming wastewater from multiple lines and adding a new manhole to improve system access and flow management. Together, these improvements will restore compliance, strengthen critical infrastructure, and ensure dependable wastewater service for residents and businesses.
According to Lori Johnson, chief of the OWRB’s Financial Assistance Division, the Authority’s customers will save an estimated $1,338,500 compared to traditional financing. The loan shall be secured with a lien on the revenues of the Authority’s water and sewer services, a 3 cent sales tax, and will include a mortgage on the water and sewer systems.
Local officials attending the OWRB’s monthly meeting in support of the loan application included City Manager Robert Johnston. “On behalf of the city of Clinton and the citizens of Clinton, thank you very much for your consideration,” said Johnston.
"This significant investment is a critical step in ensuring the safety, reliability, and regulatory compliance of Clinton’s wastewater infrastructure,” said Senator Darcy Jech, R-Kingfisher. “It will also bolster the community’s growth and quality of life for generations to come. I extend my appreciation to the Oklahoma Water Resources Board and the Clinton Public Works Authority for their roles in this essential work."
“We are grateful to State Senator Darcy Jech and State Representative Anthony Moore for their support of our financial assistance programs,” said Julie Cunningham, Executive Director of the OWRB.
Since 1983, the Oklahoma Water Resources Board has approved over $8.3 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout Oklahoma.
