Sen. Kendal Sacchieri Underscores Importance of OWRB Loan Advancing Critical Water and Infrastructure Upgrades in Duncan

OKLAHOMA CITY – State Senator Kendal Sacchieri (R-Blanchard) released the following statement after the Oklahoma Water Resources Board approved a $13.52 million loan to the Duncan Public Utilities Authority for major water and wastewater system improvements:

“Reliable water infrastructure is not optional. It is a basic government function and the foundation of every rural and small-town community in Oklahoma. For years, local systems like Duncan’s have been forced to stretch aging equipment well past its intended lifespan, leaving taxpayers to deal with inefficiencies, compliance issues, and rising maintenance costs.

“This investment is a necessary step forward. I’m encouraged to see real progress being made as we confront the serious water and infrastructure challenges facing Stephens County and many communities like it across District 43. These upgrades — modernizing the wastewater treatment plant, repairing critical components at the water treatment facility, replacing outdated equipment, and addressing long-neglected waterlines and towers — are overdue and essential to protecting public health and keeping our rural towns viable.

“As we continue this work statewide, my focus remains on making sure taxpayer dollars are spent responsibly, transparently, and on the core services that actually matter to Oklahoma families. I appreciate the OWRB for recognizing the urgency of these needs and for helping local communities secure cost-effective financing. Duncan’s estimated savings of more than $4 million compared to traditional borrowing underscores why these projects must move forward.”

The Duncan Public Utilities Authority serves more than 9,000 connections in Stephens County. Many components across its water and wastewater facilities are over 35 years old and no longer operate efficiently. The approved project includes lift station rehabilitation, headworks and treatment improvements, SCADA modernization, clarifier repairs, equipment replacements, filter media upgrades, waterline replacement in key areas, and water tower rehabilitation.

The loan is secured with a lien on revenues of the Authority’s water, sewer, sanitation, and electric services and a one-cent sales tax. It does not include a mortgage on the utility systems.

Since 1983, the Oklahoma Water Resources Board has approved more than $8.3 billion in loans and grants for water and wastewater infrastructure improvements across the state.

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