POMEROY–The local City Council has authorized a Low–and–Moderate Income (LMI) independent income survey for community residents. This survey will determine if this area is eligible for state and federal grants that can be used for infrastructure improvements, housing, and business development.

This LMI Survey will be conducted by Evergreen Rural Water of Washington (ERWoW), a non-profit organization that provides assistance to rural communities throughout Washington State. It is being funded by the City, Garfield County, the Port of Garfield County, and SEWEDA.

There will be three phases to the survey. The first will be a mailing to all residents, asking for the number of people in your household, and if your household income is above or below a specified threshold. This first letter will arrive on or around April 1.

The second phase is a follow-up letter that will be sent following the April 14 return deadline.

The third phase will begin in late April, and will involve door–to–door contact from ERWoW representatives. This phase will include all residents who did not respond by mail as well as residences that have a physical address but do not receive mail.

The survey completion date is May 15, and the results will enable the City to apply for several grants that have June, 2021 deadlines. It is imperative the community assist in completing this survey. It could mean the difference between the City receiving needed grant dollars for critical infrastructure improvements, which will ultimately affect you as a resident in helping keep your utility rates lower (if the City must pursue loans instead of receiving grant dollars, utility rates may go up in order to pay back those loans).

In accordance with Washington State income survey guidelines, this survey is being conducted by an independent third-party organization (ERWoW). Information you provide will only be used by ERWoW to calculate the percentage of the population qualifying as low-to-moderate income (LMI) and to determine median household income (MHI). All information obtained will be kept confidential by ERWoW.

It is very important that all surveys are completed and returned in the enclosed postage paid envelope in a timely fashion.

If you have any questions, you contact Peasley with SEWEDA (509) 566-7079, or Tracey Hunter, the Director of ERWoW at (360) 462-9287.