The Exchange Contractors have been deeply intertwined with our local communities, going back generations to the early days of working alongside towns and organizations on water resource management to more recent efforts in regional infrastructure development.
Our collaborative projects with local towns have helped build a resilient and thriving Central Valley and `have addressed various issues from water management to public health.
In continuance of this longstanding history, I am proud to announce the launch of our new Community Infrastructure Fund (CIF), an initiative designed to support and empower local communities through financial investments. It will also help foster sustainable growth and resilience in our region.
Starting this year, our organization will allocate up to 2 percent of our annual net transfer revenue to the CIF. These resources will provide grants for a range of regional projects and initiatives, focusing on projects essential to the well-being and development of our communities.
We invite proposals from community organizations, non-profits and local government bodies. Eligible projects should aim to make a significant impact in the following areas: water resource development, management, and conservation; renewable energy and electric power infrastructure; recreational facility development; sewage treatment infrastructure; and flood protection works.
Priority will be given to projects within the service areas of our four member entities: the Central California Irrigation District, San Luis Canal Company, Firebaugh Canal Water District, and Columbia Canal Company.
This group also includes (but isn’t limited to) the cities of Mendota, Firebaugh, Dos Palos, Los Banos, Gustine and Newman. However, proposals that benefit the broader community beyond these boundaries but directly impact our service regions will also be considered.
Interested applicants are encouraged to submit their proposals by Aug. 9. Proposals should detail how the project aligns with the authorized uses of funds and the expected benefits for the community. Detailed submission guidelines and application forms will be available at www.sjrecwa.net/community.
Our CIF committee will thoroughly review all applications, and our board of directors will make the final decisions. Applicants can expect to receive notification by Sept. 27.
This new fund represents our continued commitment to investing in the future of our communities. We believe that collaboration strengthens our region and are dedicated to supporting those doing good work in our community.
While we continue to make significant investments in infrastructure and sustainability, we also want to recognize and support others working to advance these priorities. We look forward to receiving innovative and impactful proposals that will help us build a brighter and more sustainable future for the Central Valley.
For more information, please visit our website or contact our office at 209-827- 8616.
