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House approves flood
protection funding
$50 million measure gives control to local
stakeholders
A $50 million flood
protection package for the Chehalis River basin won unanimous approval
in the state House of Representatives today. House Bill 3375,
prime sponsored by
Rep. Gary Alexander, R-Olympia, would provide a
significant piece of funding needed to implement flood-control measures
in Lewis, Thurston and Grays Harbor counties.
Within the $50 million
provided by state bonds, the measure would set aside $2.5 million for
the local Chehalis Basin Flood Control Authority to participate, or form
another locally authorized group to participate, in the development of a
flood mitigation plan. Under the language of the bill, no funds could be
spent on construction until there is an agreement among all parties.
Alexander and his 20th
District seatmate, Rep. Richard DeBolt, R-Chehalis, say the funding
package offers two important ingredients - local participation and
flexibility.
"This bill allows us to
form an important partnership between the state, the affected counties,
and local governments to develop a plan that is acceptable to all," said
Alexander. "No money can be spent until there is buyoff from the
local communities and an agreement on the final plan. It's a process
that ensures everyone's concerns are addressed and their needs are met.
Ultimately, this could serve as a model for flood-mitigation planning in
all areas of the state that experience flooding."
"There were so many people
impacted by this flood and previous flood events that it was important
to develop a package that allows for a basin-wide approach," said DeBolt.
"We're initiating the process with no preconceived ideas about what the
final plan will look like. We don't have to accept the Army Corps plan
just because its the only plan in front of us. We want to be able
to look at all options. This process would allow everyone to
provide input, and it would ensure everyone is on board in the end."
The local lawmakers said
because the project is funded with bonds, it helps ensure the money will
remain available when construction is ready to begin.
"It's likely to take
several years to work out a plan and begin construction on any
flood-control projects," Alexander explained. "With a shortfall looming
in the state's general fund operating budget, there might be a
temptation to grab unspent funds and reappropriate them to areas where
others think they're needed. The funding approach in this
bill provides greater assurance that the money remains available for
this purpose for as long as it takes to begin work on an acceptable
flood plan."
House Bill 3375 now goes
to the Senate for consideration.
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For more information, contact:
John
Handy, Assistant Director: (360) 786-5758
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