House Subcommittee Examines Reclamation’s Stimulus Funding

On July 15, Chairwoman Grace Napolitano (D-38) and Ranking Member Tom McClintock (R-4) of the House Water and Power subcommittee, held an oversight hearing examining the Bureau of Reclamation’s commitment and expenditure of stimulus funds, including the $135 million for the Title XVI Water Recycling Program. ACWA member Tony Pack, General Manager of Eastern Municipal Water District, appeared as a witness at the hearing.

Napolitano questioned Reclamation Commissioner Michael Connor on decisions related to stimulus spending because Reclamation has received numerous exceptional contract bids – well under contracting estimates, and thus freeing up substantial dollars.  Connor testified that dollars freed up by lower contract estimates will primarily go to higher than expected contracted projects, fund construction contingency and project management, and additional projects not previously funded. Additionally, Connor testified that approximately 85% of the funds available to the Bureau of Reclamation had been obligated with plans to obligate 95% by September 30, 2010.

Besides asking where any extra dollars might be spent, Rep. Jim Costa (D-20) asked Commissioner Connor if he was planning for next year, specifically with regard to storage of any carry over water. The Commissioner replied yes, that Reclamation is filling reservoirs now, and cited San Luis reservoir as an example.

To read witness statements, click here.