Cuts to water board questioned
Rep. Cliff Bentz says slashes could make big impact
By Larry Meyer
Argus Observer
Sunday, March 29, 2009 12:12 AM PDT
| |
| Larry Meyer | Argus Observer
Water in the Malheur River, seen here below Malheur Butte, is regulated by the Oregon Water Resource Department. |
ONTARIO —As the legislative process continues in Salem, a clearer picture of projected cuts is beginning to appear as state lawmakers and government officials continue to look for ways to reduce a huge projected deficit.
One agency that may face cuts is the Oregon Water Resources Department, which may be called to slash 40 FTE slots — or 40 people — according to state Rep. Cliff Bentz, R-Ontario.
One problem Bentz pointed out is the fact the Oregon Water Resources Department only has 140 people, and he said he is concerned about how a smaller water agency will be able to respond to applications for water transfers or water permits in a timely manner.
The department’s responsibilities include protecting existing water rights, facilitating voluntary streamflow restoration, helping community leaders and the public better understand the demands on the state’s water resources, providing accurate and accessible water resource data and helping develop water supply solutions.
Malheur County Commissioner Jim Nakano expressed his concerns about the possible reductions.
“Even losing 10 people would hurt the department,” Nakano, who served on the state Water Resources Board, said.
The department has a lot to do with water regulation, he said.
“It’s going to slow the process down,” Jay Chamberlin, Owyhee Irrigation District manager, said. Depending on who would get laid off, the action could reduce the level of institutional knowledge within the department, he said. That knowledge is important, he said.
Bentz also expressed his concern about the new bottle bill which was approved by the House Environment and Water Committee. House Bill 2184 adds juice, tea, coffee and sports drink bottles to the list of containers eligible for redemption and another 5 cents to the deposit.
“The bill would have very negative impact on border towns,” Bentz said.
Find more local news at www.argusobserver.com
