SACRAMENTO, CA--(Marketwire - August 10, 2010) - Association of California Water Agencies (ACWA) President Paul Kelley issued the following statement today regarding Monday's vote by the Legislature to move the $11.14 billion water bond to the November 2012 ballot.
"The water bond is a critical piece of the comprehensive water package enacted last fall. There is a tremendous need to invest in our water infrastructure and programs that improve water supply reliability around the state. We know the decision to move the bond to the November 2012 ballot was a difficult one, but we applaud legislative leaders for working together to guide this through the process and set a new date to place this important measure before the voters.
"Timing is everything, and given the current economic climate, we reluctantly agree with legislative leaders and Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger that moving the bond to the November 2012 ballot is a prudent choice that will maximize our chances for success on this issue.
"Nothing in this delay minimizes the importance of the legislative package or the need for investments in our water infrastructure. ACWA continues to support the package and will work toward securing a long-term financing plan through the water bond when it goes to voters in 2012."
ACWA is a statewide association of public agencies whose 450 members are responsible for about 90% of the water delivered in California. For more information, visit www.acwa.com.
Contact Information:
Contact:
Jennifer Persike
ACWA Director of Strategic Coordination and Public Affairs
916/441-4545
or 916/296-3981 (cell)