Virus relief money earmarked for Salem, Westminster

In the anticipation of money to arrive locally from the American Rescue Plan, Oconee County Council has voted to commit up to $3.3 million of that money to two of the county’s municipalities for water infrastructure work.  On the receiving end are to be Westminster, to the tune of $1.3 million, and Salem, for $2 million.  In Salem’s case, the town for several years sought funds to upgrade and extend its water system, especially an extension of its service area beyond the corporate limits.  The ordinances approved last night require further readings and a public hearing.  The funds from the federal government are part of about $15 million of Oconee County’s share from the rescue plan, which is an effort to relieve economic effects from the COVID-19 pandemic.