As we acknowledged in our editorial this past weekend, our public officials have many irons in the proverbial fire that must share their focus. As we said then, jobs and housing are two in which we’ve reported excellent leadership.

Efforts to address the levee that protects Williamsport and central Lycoming County and correct any deterioration are, we are pleased to say, another matter that public officials have correctly emphasized as they serve their communities.

We are thankful for the $3.5 million in federal funding secured by U.S. Rep. Dan Meuser, R-Dallas. We are just as thankful for his diligence and for the diligence of Mayor Derek Slaughter, City Council, Lycoming County’s commissioners and every elected and unelected official who has played a role in assessing the needs of this important part of our local infrastructure.

“This funding will allow critical upgrades to be made to our levee system, which protects billions of dollars in assets,” Slaughter told the Sun-Gazette for an article in Wednesday’s edition.

“Thisfunding will be instrumental in mitigating the risk of catastrophic flooding, especially in Williamsport’s economic hub.” Meuser said, according to the article. “By directing these federal funds towards enhancing and fortifying Williamsport’s flood control infrastructure, we’re safeguarding the livelihoods of thousands of residents and businesses in the area.”

We agree with Slaughter and Meuser and we appreciate the leadership our federal lawmakers and municipal and county officials have shown on this important matter.