Washington, DC  -  Congressman Mike Rogers said today the City of Heflin should receive $150,000 to expand its industrial site water and sewer system, an initiative which could ultimately help local officials attract new employers to the area.

Rogers said he earmarked the funds for Cleburne County in an appropriations bill conference report which passed the House of Representatives Thursday.

“I am delighted to have helped secure these funds for Cleburne County’s economic development initiatives,” Rogers said. “These funds should help lay the groundwork for future growth in the Heflin area and I am pleased the Federal government will be making these investments.”

Rogers said the funds were contained in H.R. 2361, the Conference Report to the Fiscal Year 2006 Interior Appropriations Bill, which passed the House 410-10. He said the bill is in its final form and will now be sent to the Senate, where it is expected to pass. The bill would then be sent to the president for his signature.

“I certainly appreciate the assistance of Senators Shelby and Sessions in moving this project forward,” Rogers added. “I also thank Heflin Mayor Anna Berry for her efforts to help improve the livelihood of all Cleburne County citizens.”

Rogers said last November he also secured $30,000 to help upgrade and expand the water system serving northern Cleburne County in the Terrapin Cove / Borden Springs area, an initiative that should also support economic development efforts in the county.