Newberg gets big check to safeguard water treatment plant

Newberg’s water will be a little safer thanks to a significant check delivered to the city last week by a member of Congress.

Congresswoman Andrea Salinas (D-OR), through the federal government’s Community Project Funding program, presented a ceremonial check for $750,000 to Mayor Bill Rosacker and City Manager Will Worthey on Friday, May 8.

The funding will pay the full costs of constructing covered structures over the water basins at the city’s water treatment plant on Wynooski Street, southeast of town, which serves more than 26,000 residents and hundreds of businesses and industries.

The structures, which were completed in April at a cost of about $1 million, bring the facility into compliance with Oregon Department of Environmental Quality standards. Without the structures, the lack of compliance could expose the city to regulatory penalties.

“Clean, safe drinking water is something every family deserves,” Salinas said in a release. “This funding will help Newberg protect its water supply, meet state standards and give residents peace of mind knowing their water is being treated safely. I’m glad I could help Newberg get the federal resources it needs to protect people’s health and make a smart investment in this community.”

Salinas is familiar with the Community Project Funding program, having secured funding for infrastructure, public safety, housing, workforce development and public health projects in the 6th Congressional District.