Tiffin Advertiser Tribune — Many people don’t associate water and sewer systems with job creation. In fact, most Americans might not think about their water and sewer systems much beyond paying utility bills.

But one consistent message I’ve heard at many of the 200 roundtable discussions I’ve conducted across our state is that affordable water and sewer rates are critical to attracting and retaining employers – particularly those in the manufacturing industry that depend on water for their production processes. A modern, affordable water infrastructure is critical to preserving jobs, building strong communities, and keeping Americans safe.

This is a jobs issue, which is why I am re-introducing the Clean Water Affordability Act – bipartisan legislation I first introduced in 2008 with then-Sen. George V. Voinovich.

All Ohioans deserve access to clean water, but across Ohio communities are struggling to afford the necessary upgrades to improve their sewer systems.

Read the whole article »