<?xml version='1.0' encoding='utf-8'?>
<regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" citation="COMAR 26.03.09.04" title_num="26" subtitle_num="03" chapter_num="09" heading="Application Requirements.">
  <paragraph num="A.">
    <text>An applicant shall submit a pre-application which includes sufficient information for the Department to determine:</text>
    <paragraph num="(1)">
      <text>Project eligibility;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(2)">
      <text>Priority ranking;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(3)">
      <text>The extent to which funds will be available to support projects on the annual priority list.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </paragraph>
  <paragraph num="B.">
    <text>Final Application. The Department shall require the applicant to submit, within 1 year, a final application when the project falls within the fundable range on the annual priority list. The Department may, at its discretion, extend the application deadline. The application shall contain any additional information the Department may require including:</text>
    <paragraph num="(1)">
      <text>Certification that the project is in conformance with the County Comprehensive Water and Sewerage Plan;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(2)">
      <text>Copies of pertinent State construction permits;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(3)">
      <text>Copies of design plans and specifications;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(4)">
      <text>Studies and reports which demonstrate the engineering feasibility and cost effectiveness of projects where acquisition, equipment, and construction or any combination of these costs exceed $5,000;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(5)">
      <text>Certification that all other requirements for eligibility found in Regulations .05 and .07 of this chapter are met; and</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(6)">
      <text>In addition to all other eligibility and special requirements, grant applicants may be required to demonstrate a plan of action that will provide for the future financial stability of the water supply system. The plan of action may include a rational rate structure, scheduled capital improvements, and assurances that sufficient funding will be available to provide for continued, efficient, and effective operation of the system.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </paragraph>
  <paragraph num="C.">
    <text>If the Department determines that under Regulation .05E, of this chapter, feasibility studies, planning, and plans and specifications are eligible for funding, the Department may petition the Board of Public Works for these funds before determining the extent to which the State may participate in providing financial assistance for construction.</text>
  </paragraph>
</regulation>