Section 49-1304 - Evaluation criteria for projects from the long-term water augmentation fundA. The authority shall determine the order and priority of water supply development projects proposed to be funded in whole or in part with monies from the long-term water augmentation fund, participation in projects to import water or allocation of imported water based on the following, as applicable: 1. The benefits of the project to current and future residents of this state, including the ability of the project to improve access to water supplies for use within this state and promote economic growth, in relation to the projected cost of the project.2. The ability of the project to provide multiple water supply development benefits.3. The projected costs of the project.4. The ability of the project to address or mitigate water supply reductions to existing water users, considering the existence, feasibility and long-term reliability of mitigation measures available to the applicant or proposed beneficiaries, including the availability of water supplies from the Arizona water banking authority. 5. The cost-effectiveness of the project.6. The reliability and long-term security of the water supply to be developed through the project.7. Existing and planned conservation, best management practices and water management programs of the applicant or potential applicant.8. The degree to which the project will maximize or leverage multiple available funding sources, including federal funding.9. The applicant's ability to meet any applicable environmental requirements imposed by any federal or state agency.10. The qualifications, industry experience, including experience with similar projects, general reputation and financial capacity of the applicant or any private partner, based on appropriate due diligence.11. The feasibility of the project, including the feasibility of the proposed design and operation of the project.12. Comments from water users, local citizens and affected jurisdictions.13. For projects involving the construction or operation of water-related facilities, the safety record of any private partner.14. Existing, near-term and long-term water demands compared to the volume and reliability of existing water supplies of the beneficiaries of the funding or project. In evaluating this criterion, the authority shall consider information contained in any applicable water supply and demand assessment that has been issued by the director of water resources pursuant to section 45-105, subsection B, paragraph 14, in addition to any other information submitted to evaluate this criterion.15. Potential impacts to ratepayers.16. The ability of the applicant and any public or private partner to fully repay all financial obligations to the authority.17. For agreements entered into pursuant to section 49-1203.01, subsection C, paragraph 5, the impact of any such agreement on the ability of the authority to comply with the requirements of section 49-1303, subsection E.18. Other criteria that the authority deems appropriate.B. The board shall conduct background checks, financial checks and other reviews deemed appropriate for individual applicants, applicants' boards of directors and other partners of the applicants.Added by L. 2022, ch. 366,s. 23, eff. 9/23/2022.