(Salem, OR) – Governor Tina Kotek of Oregon is currently deliberating over the potential veto of $14 million in budget allocations from the 2024 legislative session. Among these allocations, $4 million is earmarked for water projects in Southern Oregon.
The funds in question stem primarily from one-time allocations specified in Senate Bill 1530. The decision to potentially veto these funds hinges on the need for additional information regarding their impact on new housing production, particularly in relation to the direct appropriations and associated infrastructure projects.
Governor Kotek articulated the legislative intent behind this funding, emphasizing its role in supporting shovel-ready projects crucial for fostering new housing production. Following the legislative session, her office initiated a thorough review of each project to assess its scope, cost, timeline, feasibility, and its connection to housing production and affordability.
The Governor’s office has pinpointed seven projects necessitating further information to determine their viability for continued support. Notably, three of these projects are situated in Southern Oregon, accounting for a total of $4 million in budget allocations:
- $1.5 million designated for wastewater treatment plant and lift station upgrades in the City of Butte Falls.
- $1.5 million allocated to the City of Shady Cove for the development of the city drinking water system.
- $1 million allocated to the City of Gold Hill for the replacement of a water distribution main line and improvements and upgrades to water treatment facilities.
Additionally, other potential line item vetoes total $10 million, encompassing:
- $3 million designated to Oak Lodge Water Services Authority for wastewater treatment facility upgrades.
- $3 million allocated to the City of Siletz for wastewater treatment plant upgrades.
- $3 million earmarked for the Tualatin Valley Water District for upgrades to the pump station on SW 189th Avenue in Beaverton.
- $1 million allocated to the City of Creswell for wastewater treatment facility upgrades and connections to a regional treatment facility.
Governor Kotek underscored her commitment to transparency, accountability, and outcomes concerning public funds, including direct appropriations. In alignment with this commitment, she is affording cities and districts the opportunity to furnish additional information to her office, thereby confirming whether the funding allocations will indeed result in the production of new housing within an acceptable timeline.
