Program will fund crucial services for rural communities

May 20, 2009 10:37 pm

— Regardless of the politics involved, weÕre glad to see funding has been provided by the state Legislature for Rural Economic Action Plan, commonly known as REAP.
As usual, there has been sniping back and forth between Democrats and Republicans in the Legislature over why funding was cut, then restored. To us, that doesnÕt matter. What matters is funding for this important program will be provided.
The funding mechanism for REAP has changed. Now, late fees for vehicle license plate renewals will be used in part to fund REAP. The late fee will rise from 25 cents a day to $1 a day. REAP will receive $14.4 million.
ThatÕs down from $15.5 million last year, but this was a bad budget year for Oklahoma, with most state agencies taking a 7 percent cut, so less funding for REAP is not out of line.
REAP funding goes through state Commerce Department and can be used for a variety of projects, including water, wastewater, solid waste, streets, housing demolition, fire protection, senior citizen centers, gas and electrical system improvements, removal of architectural barriers associated with handicapped access and storm water drainage improvements.
The money is used by small towns that more than likely do not have any other revenue resources to pay for needed work.
We canÕt stress enough how important REAP is to rural Oklahoma. This is not wasted money. ItÕs an example of a government program that works.