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RCAC in Montana

Grants and contracts with state and federal agencies allow RCAC Montana staff members to focus on communities with the greatest need. RCAC technical assistance is free to selected communities that meet funders’ requirements. Communities generally must be rural organizations with a population below 3,300. RCAC technical assistance is limited to available resources within Montana state. As projects are completed, new communities may be added. Communities not referred by one of RCAC’s funders are encouraged to contact a technical assistance provider to discuss their needs and to determine if RCAC can serve them.

RCAC also works closely with Montana Water, Wastewater and Solid Waste Action Coordinating Team (W2ASACT). WASACT has brought together technical assistance providers, regulators, civil engineers and funding agencies to provide balanced and comprehensive information regarding environmental infrastructure projects for rural communities.

Technical Assistance Available

Access to Resources
Project financial packaging
Grant and loan application assistance
RCAC loan fund financing
Formation of water and sewer districts

Customized Technical Assistance
Asset management strategies
Bylaws/Articles of Incorporation development
Environmental regulatory requirements
Capital improvement planning

Capacity Building
Board training
Leadership development
Planning for operational changes
Strategic planning
Community income surveys
Construction oversight and project management
Emergency response planning
Evaluating and establishing connection fees
Hiring consultants, engineers and contractors
Maintenance and billing assistance
Personnel and management
Project financial analysis

Recordkeeping and reporting requirements
Responding to compliance notices
Restructuring and consolidation evaluation
Setting and reviewing rates
Short and long-range budgeting
Source water and wellhead protection
Troubleshooting and repair
Zoning and regulatory issues

Training Workshops
Board member roles and responsibilities
Construction management
Customer service
Developing policies and procedures
Emergency and safety procedures
Fiscal systems
Operations and Maintenance record keeping and reporting
Operator training
Utility operations management
Water quality monitoring requirements
Water use efficiency
Wells and pumps operation and maintenance

Staff Contact: Callie McIntosh

Montana Field Staff