Carlson Amendment Could Be Trouble For Diversion

An amendment to a water funding bill sponsored by House Majority Leader Al Carlson of Fargo could spell big trouble for the Red River Flood Diversion project.

 

 

 

 

An amendment to a water funding bill sponsored by House Majority Leader Al Carlson of Fargo could spell big trouble for the Red River Flood Diversion project.

Carlson's measure would block state funding for the diversion itself and for home buyouts.

The house appropriations committee approved the amended bill on a 19-to-2 vote.

Project backers like committee member representative Ron Guggisberg of Fargo say the measure could kill the project.

Carlson defends the proposal saying it still provides funding to Fargo to finish up raising its flood protection to 42 1/2 feet.

He says he's concerned if funding for the federal share of the diversion doesn't materialize, it will leave state taxpayers with the tab and he says the state cannot afford a $2 billion project.

The full house is expected to vote on the bill this week. the senate won't get it until next month.

Project backers say they plan to lobby hard to make sure the bill as it now stands does not get approved.

(Photo Credit:  KFGO File Photo)

 

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