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The Rural Water Association of Utah's Mission is to provide professional training, support services, and
representation for water and wastewater members to help enhance the
quality of services to their customers.
The following information shows how the Association is meeting the "representation" aspect of the mission:
The Board of Directors supports the legislative efforts by its Legislative Committee on behalf of the
Association's membership. This support is stated in the Board's Governance Statements.
- Representation from each of the Association's 6 geographical districts is encouraged.
- Representation from all types of voting members is also encouraged.
- The Legislative Chair and the President shall not be the same person.
- RWAU shall follow legislative guidance from NRWA.
The Association believes strongly in building and maintaining legislative and government relationships
both on a State and National level.
- RWAU's Legislative Chair, Dale Pierson serves as the Chair of the Governor-appointed Utah Drinking Water Board.
- He also serves on the State's Water Development Commission, and the Source Water Protection Task Force.
- Dale is a founding member of the effective and well thought of Water Coalition. They look at State legislative issues and review proposals and bills.
- RWAU Board Member, Arnold Smith serves as Chair of the State Water Certification Council.
- RWAU Board Member, Neil Forster serves on the National Rural Water Association Board of Directors. He has 13 years experience working with the Congressional delegation in Washington, DC.
- The Association's Executive Director, Russ Donoghue serves as the chief representative of the Association with legislative initiatives. He is also a member of the Governor's Water Conservation Team and the Water Coalition.
In 2003, the Association was a key player in addressing water issues facing the membership. The following list includes those efforts:
- Water system security legislation involving Background Checks on personnel.
- Maintaining the 1/16th cent sales tax for water and wastewater projects.
- Developing a strategy for source water protection.
The Association works diligently on the National level in support of NRWA programs and initiatives.
In March 2003, 4 members of the Association met with the Congressional delegation asking them to support
Rural Water programs nationwide. Again in April - 6 members attended the Rural Water Rally and met with
the delegation. In July, a follow-up, thank you meeting was attended by 4 Association members.
The Association works hard to maintain relations with Congressional Offices in the State.
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