Senator Coker urges Nebraska to negotiate over Perkins Canal construction threats

The Colorado Senate convened on April 7, 2025, for Legislative Day 090, where discussions centered on significant issues affecting local landowners and inter-state relations, particularly concerning the South Platte River and the Perkins Canal project.

The meeting began with Senator Coker addressing concerns regarding the state of Nebraska's approach to land acquisition for the Perkins Canal. He highlighted that Nebraska officials have repeatedly threatened to use eminent domain against landowners in his district, which has created tension and fear among residents. Senator Coker emphasized that these threats have not been accompanied by good faith negotiations, which he believes are essential for finding a mutually beneficial solution.

Coker urged Nebraska to engage in constructive dialogue rather than resorting to intimidation tactics. He expressed that if Nebraska were willing to negotiate, there could be a pathway to resolve the issues without harming the agricultural community in Colorado. He underscored the importance of protecting local families and their livelihoods, framing the situation as one that requires cooperation rather than conflict.

The senator concluded his remarks by calling for a collaborative approach to address the concerns of affected landowners, stressing that the current strategy of threatening eminent domain is counterproductive and harmful to both states involved.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the ongoing challenges in inter-state negotiations regarding land use and the need for open communication to prevent escalation of disputes. The discussions set the stage for potential future dialogues aimed at resolving these critical issues.