Shown (l to r) Jon Hinnman, Dave Smith, Paul Chatfield, Bob Ottley, Chuck Bastain, Marcia Havens.In January 2013 the Town of Riga was awarded with the Small Cities/Rural Communities Award from the Genesee Valley Chapter of the American Public Works Association for the Town of Riga Water Improvement Benefit Area #1 Project.
The water project was completed in 2012. The total cost came in at $1.4 million under budget and was completed in one year rather than the three years that were initially projected. Residents who received the water benefit saved as well. The $3.75 million that they voted to bond the project was secured at about 4.5 percent interest rather than the 6 percent that was initially projected. The term of the bond was also reduced from a projected 34 to 29 years. These changes from the projection will save residents in the Benefit Area about $144 per year over the life of the bond.
At the ceremony, Riga Supervisor Bob Ottley said that it was an honor to accept the award on behalf of the Town of Riga. He credited the foresight of the original steering committee and the experience and expertise of Special Counsel, Marcia Havens, and Engineering and Design Firm, Chatfield Engineers, especially Paul Chatfield and Jon Hinnman. He also credited the residents of the town for allowing this project to move forward by authorizing the use of landfill revenues and the borrowing of funds for the balance of the project.
The American Public Works Association was formed in 1934 and continues to demonstrate its commitment to the education, support, and betterment of all aspects of Public Works. The Genesee Valley Chapter represents all Public Works agencies and people located in Genesee, Livingston, Monroe, Ontario, Orleans and Wayne County.
Each year the Genesee Valley Chapter of APWA celebrates the achievement and power of public works to transform the environment. The Town of Riga project will be submitted to the New York Chapter for statewide consideration in its category; and they will also be considered for national awards.
