TWDB to hold work session in San Antonio on SWIFT draft rules

For immediate release. Contact: Media Relations at 512-463-5129

AUSTIN – (July 21, 2014) – The Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) will hold a work session in San Antonio at the Texas A&M University-San Antonio Campus, One University Way, Senator Frank L. Madla Building, on July 24, 2014, at 1:00 p.m. The TWDB Board will be briefed on the State Water Implementation Fund for Texas (SWIFT) and State Water Implementation Revenue Fund for Texas (SWIRFT) rule development process.

The public is encouraged to attend and provide public comment on the draft SWIFT rules. The SWIFT will be used to finance water supply projects in the state water plan, and the rules will define standards for rural, conservation and reuse projects. The draft rules also propose prioritization criteria for projects seeking financial assistance from the SWIFT. This is the first of three work sessions being conducted around the state specifically to gather comments and suggestions on the rules. The other two sessions will be held in San Angelo and Fort Worth at a later date. The formal comment period for SWIFT is open until September 1, 2014.

Public transportation is available for those interested in participating in the work session. Please consult the VIA Metropolitan Transit website for route options. Bus route 520, stop #26183, is the drop off location for A&M's campus.

The work session will also include a presentation on drought conditions across the state. In addition, the Board will consider financial assistance for local water projects and hear discussion on other activities.

Interested stakeholders who are unable to attend the work session can view and submit public comments on the TWDB website or by emailing comments to rulescomments@twdb.texas.gov.

The TWDB is the state agency charged with collecting and disseminating water-related data, assisting with regional planning, and preparing the state water plan for the development of the state's water resources. The TWDB administers cost-effective financial assistance programs for the construction of water supply, wastewater treatment, flood control, and agricultural water conservation projects.