Representative Reedy advocates for expansion of West Tennessee River Basin Authority membership
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The Finance, Ways, and Means Subcommittee of the Tennessee State Legislature convened on March 5, 2025, to discuss significant legislative proposals impacting the West Tennessee River Basin Authority. Representative Reedy presented a bill aimed at expanding the authority's jurisdiction to include four additional counties: Stuart, Houston, Humphreys, and Perry. This expansion is intended to enhance the authority's capacity to respond to weather-related emergencies and flooding, which have historically affected the region.
During the meeting, Representative Reedy emphasized the importance of the West Tennessee River Basin Authority, particularly in light of past flooding events, such as the severe incident in Waverly, Humphreys County, four years prior. The authority plays a crucial role in disaster response, providing professional assistance and equipment for cleanup efforts following weather events. The proposed legislation would create two new positions within the authority to better manage soil and water loss and address destruction caused by flooding.
The fiscal implications of the bill were also discussed, with Representative Reedy noting that the financial impact is manageable compared to the $20 million earmarked for the loss of two schools in Humphreys County. He expressed confidence that funding from FEMA and TDEC would offset the costs associated with the new positions.
Committee members raised questions regarding the authority's overall operating budget and its daily functions. Representative Gantt sought clarification on the authority's activities, while Representative Shaw, a former board member, highlighted the authority's role in dredging, flood control, and addressing soil erosion issues. He underscored the necessity of the authority's work for the agricultural community in West Tennessee.
The discussion concluded with a consensus on the importance of the proposed expansion, although it was noted that the bill would be deferred for further budgetary considerations. The committee plans to continue discussions and gather additional input from stakeholders, including local mayors, before moving forward.
During the meeting, Representative Reedy emphasized the importance of the West Tennessee River Basin Authority, particularly in light of past flooding events, such as the severe incident in Waverly, Humphreys County, four years prior. The authority plays a crucial role in disaster response, providing professional assistance and equipment for cleanup efforts following weather events. The proposed legislation would create two new positions within the authority to better manage soil and water loss and address destruction caused by flooding.
The fiscal implications of the bill were also discussed, with Representative Reedy noting that the financial impact is manageable compared to the $20 million earmarked for the loss of two schools in Humphreys County. He expressed confidence that funding from FEMA and TDEC would offset the costs associated with the new positions.
Committee members raised questions regarding the authority's overall operating budget and its daily functions. Representative Gantt sought clarification on the authority's activities, while Representative Shaw, a former board member, highlighted the authority's role in dredging, flood control, and addressing soil erosion issues. He underscored the necessity of the authority's work for the agricultural community in West Tennessee.
The discussion concluded with a consensus on the importance of the proposed expansion, although it was noted that the bill would be deferred for further budgetary considerations. The committee plans to continue discussions and gather additional input from stakeholders, including local mayors, before moving forward.
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