Farm leader: Possible delay in water bond vote disappointing but understandable

» July 1, 2010 «

In response to the recommendation by Gov. Schwarzenegger and legislative leaders to delay placing a water bond before California voters, the leader of the state’s largest farm organization said farmers are disappointed but recognize the reasons for the potential delay.

California Farm Bureau Federation President Paul Wenger noted that the organization has endorsed the bond, known as the Safe, Clean and Reliable Drinking Water Supply Act. The Legislature originally agreed to place the measure before voters this November, but the governor and legislative leaders have recommended a delay until the November 2012 election.

“We’re disappointed that the vote may be delayed, but we understand why. There are many good water system improvements in the bond, including funding for new surface storage, but there may be a need to take more time to inform voters about the benefits of the bond measure. It’s the right package, but this November may be the wrong time,” Wenger said.

He pointed out that a delay would not mean the bond is dead, noting that the Legislature has postponed other bond measures that voters ultimately passed.

“Farm Bureau believes there’s an urgent need to invest in new water storage and other steps to improve water quality and reliability,” Wenger said. “This water bond takes a comprehensive approach to enhancing the California water system. Farm Bureau will continue to work for that sort of comprehensive approach whenever the bond ultimately goes before voters. If that turns out to be 2012, we will use the extra time to show people how improving the water system will benefit everyone in California.”

The California Farm Bureau Federation works to protect family farms and ranches on behalf of 81,000 members statewide and as part of a nationwide network of more than 6.2 million Farm Bureau members.

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Contact: Dave Kranz
Phone: 916/561-5550
news@cfbf.com

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