The City of Roswell Mayor, Council, Department of Community Affairs and staff celebrated becoming a Georgia WaterFirst Community at the Covered Bridge on Thursday, August 6. The WaterFirst Community designation officially recognizes the commitment of communities to excellence in water resource management and stewardship. Only 17 communities in the state have received the designation.

“Roswell was founded and established because of our water resources and today we continue to conserve and protect this great amenity,” explains Mayor Jere Wood. “Becoming a WaterFirst Community enhances our commitment.”

There are eight major components of the WaterFirst Program, and the extent to which the participants will need to address each one is dependent on the size of the community and the water-related services that it provides, such as Stormwater Master Planning, Water Supply Planning, Water Supply Protection and Water Conservation.

Roswell was presented WaterFirst road signs and a plaque recognizing the accomplishment during the ceremony.  Roswell will also become eligible for other benefits, including reduced GEFA interest rates on state loans for water related projects.­