LAWA board backs due diligence on state ownership option for major supply project

Spencer Halverson and staff presented a resolution asking the board to support further due diligence on Option 3, which would transfer ownership and operations of the Red River Valley Water Supply Project to the State Water Commission. Halverson said the resolution would allow the authority to "bring a solutions oriented mindset, to further due diligence on option 3" and to work collaboratively with state offices, the legislature and local partners.

Board members repeatedly framed the proposal as proportionate to the project's statewide scope — the state is expected to fund roughly 75% — and cited the need for coordination if the state assumes responsibility. A roll-call vote carried the resolution unanimously; Reese Haas (DWR) and staff will work on an implementation plan for the September water topics overview committee meeting.