Washington, DC) — U.S. Rep. Howard P. “Buck” McKeon (R-Santa Clarita) today hailed the passage of the Water Resources Development Act of 2005 (HR 2864), legislation which authorizes funding for two flood damage reduction projects in Palmdale, and increases the current authorization level for perchlorate contamination studies in Santa Clarita.  The measure passed the House today by an overwhelmingly bipartisan vote of 406-14.

“The passage of this bill is an important step towards addressing the flood mitigation and water resources needs of our area,” said Rep. McKeon.  

The legislation, HR 2864, contains language to authorize up to $7 million a year each for the Barrel Springs project and the Hunt Canyon Flood Control Basin in the City of Palmdale.

“Palmdale is hit hard by the floods during the rainy season, causing significant damage to area homes and business.  This funding will undoubtedly go a long way towards enhancing and improving our community’s flood control infrastructure.  I applaud my colleagues for having the foresight to approve this funding for the city.”

The Barrel Springs project involves the preparation of construction of a regional flood control basin on a 40-acre parcel.  The project will provide flood control protection to downstream properties that are currently subject to flooding, including Air Force Plant 42.

The Hunt Canyon Flood Control Basin is located within an unincorporated area of Los Angeles County and is tributary to 4968 acres. The Project will reduce damage to downstream facilities, including Air Force Plant 42.

In addition to the funding for Palmdale, McKeon fought successfully to increase the funding level for perchlorate contamination studies in Santa Clarita to $10 million, up from $7 million, a level already reached as a result of successful appropriations requests in the past.

“Santa Clarita is one of the fastest growing communities in California, making it critical to have a safe and plentiful source of water for all of our residents.  I am pleased that the House acted decisively to increase the authorization level to study perchlorate contamination in our Valley.  I will continue to work hard to ensure that our groundwater is completely free from this harmful chemical.”

Earlier this month, McKeon also introduced legislation, The Eastern Santa Clara River Basin Act, which would further increase the authorization level to study perchlorate contamination by another $10 million, and the authorization to clean it up by an additional $25 million.  The legislation is currently being considered in the Water Resources and Environment Subcommittee of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.