CHARLESTON -- Gov. Joe Manchin has appointed Chris Jarrett to serve as executive director of the West Virginia Water Development Authority.
Jarrett, retired longtime president of West Virginia-American Water Co., brings nearly 40 years of experience in rural water development to the board.
"Building West Virginia's infrastructure is a priority if we are to move this state forward, and quality water and wastewater treatment is at the top of that list," Manchin said. "Chris has the knowledge and experience to help the board make informed decisions but, foremost, he is a West Virginian and dedicated to improving the quality of life for our residents."
Jarrett is a West Virginia native and worked for West Virginia-American Water for 36 years. Under his leadership, the company was able to expand quality water service to about 100,000 West Virginians who previously were underserved or not served at all.
Since retiring, Jarrett has been involved with the creation of laboratories and small businesses that conduct research in water quality, and make materials used in the removal of contaminants from air and water.
Jarrett has bachelor's degrees in accounting and business management and a master's degree in finance. He fills a position left vacant by Daniel Yonkosky. This appointment becomes effective Dec. 15.
The West Virginia Water Development Authority (WDA) coordinates the financing and closing for all infrastructure loans and economic development loans and provides financing for the design, construction, improvement and acquisition of wastewater and water facilities to local governmental agencies (LGAs--municipalities, public service districts and other political subdivisions).
The WDA also oversees servicing $1.6 billion in loans and grants made from its revenue bond programs, the West Virginia Infrastructure Fund, the Clean Water State Revolving Fund and the Drinking Water Treatment Revolving Fund.
The WDA's mission is to provide communities in West Virginia financial assistance for development and continued maintenance of wastewater, water and economic infrastructure that will protect the streams of the state, improve drinking water quality, protect public health and encourage economic growth.
Jarrett named Water Development Authority director
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