A setback for supporters of the proposed F-M diversion project.
The state Senate has approved language in the state Water Commission budget bill that prohibits state money from being spent on the diversion until the federal government comes through with its share. Although the diversion project is number two on the Army Corps of Engineers’ list, no federal money has been appropriated yet for the project.
This language is less restrictive than the House version, which was stripped by the Senate Appropriations Committee. Sen. Larry Luick (R-Fairmount) authored the new language.
"What happens in the likely event that Congress hands out authorization with no funding," said Luick. "We end up holding the bag."
"It's too big of a deal to go in with only one partner," said Sen. Terry Wanzek (R-Jamestown). "I'm ready and willing to support this effort, but not until I see full federal funding put into the project."
Diversion supporters argue the state needs to show its commitment first -- before federal funds are authorized.
"We're tired of fighting it," said Sen. Tim Flakoll (R-Fargo). "We're tired of paying flood insurance. We're tired of making the national news because of flooding. And I think everyone shares that we're tired of sandbagging."
Sen. Lonnie Laffen (R-Grand Forks) says after the flood of 1997, everyone came together to build the Grand Forks flood protection project.
"Considering I lost my house and most of my building once, it's very satisfying knowing that these people took care of us," Laffen said. "It's time for us to take care of Fargo."
The new language passed 24-23. The bill will likely be worked out in a conference committee.