SHAHEEN: SAFEGUARDING OUR DRINKING WATER IMPORTANT TO PUBLIC HEALTH IN NEW HAMPSHIRE

Senator Shaheen tours construction of a new water line in Raymond

(Raymond, NH) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) continued to monitor efforts to ensure the health and safety of residents near the Mottolo Superfund in Raymond yesterday during a meeting with Raymond city officials and a tour of water line construction near the Mottolo site. Workers are currently installing a new water line as part of efforts by the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services and the Environmental Protection Agency to provide clean drinking water to Raymond residents. Shaheen’s office has been actively involved with these efforts since elevated pollution levels were found in local residential wells in the summer of 2009.

"Making sure that citizens throughout New Hampshire have access to clean, reliable drinking water is critical for public health,” said Shaheen. "Since the discovery of pollutants at the Mottolo site, my staff has worked closely with the city of Raymond to ensure all parties were working together to protect residents’ safety. This project is a critical part of that effort.”

Shaheen was also briefed by Raymond city officials on the planning for the Raymond Business Center, which will begin construction this fall. Shaheen’s office recently helped the Regional Economic Development Center of Southern New Hampshire obtain a $432,000 grant from the U.S. Economic Development Agency to build the business center.

"The Raymond Board of Selectmen wants to thank Senator Shaheen for her ongoing commitment and support for economic development initiatives to the town," said Craig Wheeler, Raymond Town Manager. “The two Raymond based projects addressed today represent the town's commitment to support economic growth and development. The Senator’s understanding of the community’s needs has enabled us to move forward in a proactive fashion to seek solutions that are locally based and make sense for the community.  The Board of Selectmen appreciates her support and thanks Senator Shaheen for her commitment to locally based solutions."