(Seattle, WA) – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA)
applauded partnerships between the Department of Housing and Urban Development
(HUD) three diking entities in Cowlitz County, whose levees protect HUD
infrastructure. The partnership is needed to certify levees that protect home
and business owners at a lower cost to rate payers. This partnership enables
the Army Corps of Engineers to certify the levees, rather than the diking
entities having to hire private contractors. It will also ensure that home and
business owners are not forced to purchase costly flood insurance. If forced to
use a private contractor, the three entities in Cowlitz County could have ended
up paying approximately $3.5 million, whereas the partnership with HUD brings
down the cost to approximately $500,000, saving the rate payers in the Kelso
and Longview area $3 million.
“I’m proud to have worked
with local diking entities and federal agencies to establish these cost-saving
partnerships,” said Senator Murray. “In these tough economic times, ensuring home and
business owners are protected from floods and the need to purchase expensive
insurance plans is a top priority.”
“The City of Longview
is extremely appreciative of the collaboration that has taken place to achieve
this federal partnership. This is an excellent example of how federal and local
governments can work together to provide efficiencies and cost savings to our
citizens and taxpayers and Senator Murray’s support to ensure this partnership
was achieved is appreciated,” said Bob
Gregory, Longview City Manager.
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