WHEREAS there presently exists no provincial funding (except for eligible hamlets) for the construction of individual or cooperative rural water supply systems in Alberta;AND WHEREAS the rural people recognize a large ongoing need for good quality water in sufficient quantities to meet their needs that they might prosper and grow;AND WHEREAS the economic, social and environmental health of rural Alberta is either directly or indirectly affected by the supply of good quality water, as well as the ability to increase primary and secondary production, which is a goal of Alberta Agriculture;AND WHEREAS many people in rural Alberta are looking for improved water supplies, but construction costs prohibit this development;AND WHEREAS it appears the federal government is willing to continue their financial support of rural water systems, through the Prairie Farm Rehabilitation Administration (PFRA) programs;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Alberta Association of Municipal Districts and Counties urge the Government of Alberta to enter into a partnership with PFRA to jointly provide funding assistance toward the construction or expansion of rural water supply systems in accordance with the following formula:Landowner/Water User 25% of project costsPFRA & Alberta Government 75% of project costs

The Alberta government, through Alberta Transportation and Utilities, once promoted the formation of many rural water co-ops by financially assisting the co-ops in the construction of domestic water lines. These water lines serviced many farms throughout the County of Warner and the province. This program benefited these ratepayers by insuring these farmsteads now had a reliable source of quality water. Since the program ended, those who were unable to belong to a co-op have been desperately trying to establish a source of water within their region, but have found the cost beyond their financial ability. With the financial assistance of the Province and federal governments, coupled with that of the landowner, a guaranteed supply of quality water would again be available. Water improves an individuals way of life, has the potential to increase primary and secondary production and allows development in an area that might not otherwise blossom and grow.