Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson has announced the allocation of $13 million in State and Tribal Assistance Grants (STAG) for water infrastructure projects in American Falls, Bellevue, Fort Hall, and Rigby. The funding was secured through Community Project Funding (CPF) as part of H.R. 6938, the Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act for 2026.
Simpson, who serves as Chairman of the House Interior and Environment Appropriations Subcommittee, emphasized his commitment to Idaho’s water needs. “During this pivotal time for water in Idaho, I am proud of the resources provided for water infrastructure projects and the impact they will have in our neighborhoods,” said Rep. Simpson. “As Idaho’s only appropriator, it is my honor and responsibility to advocate for Idaho and ensure our state’s priorities are heard. I am proud of the collaborative effort with my office and the cities of American Falls, Bellevue, Fort Hall, and Rigby to produce meaningful results for our communities.”
The City of American Falls plans to use its share to modernize aging drinking water infrastructure. Mayor Gilbert Hofmeister stated: “The City of American Falls is preparing to move forward with a much-needed, citywide drinking water project to modernize aging infrastructure, improve water efficiency, and position our community for responsible growth. This project is critical to the long-term health and reliability of our water system, but it carries a cost that is difficult for a small city like ours to take on alone. For that reason, we are respectfully requesting $2 million in federal support through Community Project Funding. We are grateful to Congressman Simpson for considering this request. His support would help ease the financial burden on our residents and allow us to move forward with work that is essential to the future of American Falls. This investment would benefit not only today’s residents but generations to come.”
Scott Dalling, Water Superintendent for American Falls added: “Our city faces issues with growth, water usage, and undersized lines. The American Falls Drinking Water Project will correct these issues—but at a high cost. The work has to be done, and it has been a struggle finding enough funding for this vital project while keeping up with the other demands of a city. We thank Congressman Simpson for being an ally to us in Congress to get a significant share of taxpayer monies returned to this area to help cover the cost of upgrading our water system.”
Bellevue will receive $4 million toward public drinking water system improvements aimed at regulatory compliance with state environmental standards.
Chris Johnson from Bellevue said: “On behalf of the City of Bellevue…I would like to extend my deep gratitude…for Congressman Simpson’s leadership in advancing $4 million…towards the City’s public drinking water system improvements project….These funds will help offset the exorbitant costs…ensuring affordable drinking water services….Thank you for representing…small communities like ours.”
Mayor Christina Giordani echoed those sentiments: “On behalf of the City of Bellevue…I extend our community’s deepest gratitude…for securing $4 million…for critical improvements….This funding will enable [us] …to bring its drinking water infrastructure back into compliance…ensuring long-term reliable safe drinking water….We are sincerely thankful …His advocacy makes a lasting difference.”
Fort Hall’s Sheepskin Water Tank Replacement Project aims at improving storage capacity as well as fire protection.
Donna Thompson from Fort Hall commented: “Access to safe and reliable drinking water is essential….The Sheepskin Water Tank Replacement Project addresses long-standing infrastructure needs …and will help in improving …water pressure,…storage,…and fire protection….We’re profoundly thankful …for steadfast support …and continued efforts …that directly benefit Shoshone-Bannock Tribes.”
Rigby intends using its portion towards construction upgrades including building a new 1.5-million-gallon tank.
Mayor Richard Datwyler said: “The City of Rigby is very excited about STAG funding announcement….It will greatly assist making much needed improvements ….We are grateful …This investment …will help us be better prepared for future needs ….”
In addition:
– In American Falls funding targets replacement or upgrade over 13 miles noncompliant lines plus installation meters.
– In Bellevue money supports new collection systems at Seamans Creek Springs among other upgrades.
– In Fort Hall funds go toward constructing new 700k gallon tank expanding capacity completing piping loops.
– In Rigby grants fund construction larger storage tanks address deficiencies peak demand emergencies also upgrade main line under US Highway 20.
Despite criticism labeling CPF projects as “wasteful earmarks,” supporters argue such measures allow congressional members like Simpson—who represents Idaho’s 2nd district since replacing Mike Crapo in 1999—to direct federal tax dollars back into local priorities rather than elsewhere.
Simpson has served continuously since then after previously serving in Idaho’s state legislature from 1984 until his election to Congress. Born in Burley in 1950 he resides now in Idaho Falls.
The broader appropriations act containing these grants passed overwhelmingly by a vote tallying 397–28 within United States House Representatives.
