SLC Backs Water Rights Bill

None by Eric Ray

(KCPW News) A bill to protect the water rights of cities and towns from forfeiture is slated for review by lawmakers this year, and Salt Lake City will be front and center in support of House Bill 51.

The bill allows public water suppliers to hold water in anticipation of future growth. Last year, several water rights developers accused Salt Lake City of hoarding water. Salt Lake City Councilman Eric Jergensen calls the practice of holding water for future growth "prudent planning." Jergensen says Salt Lake City needs the water for several reasons. There are a large number of people considering moving to the city and there are 17 thousand acres of land in the Northwest quadrant slated for development.

To listen to a conversation with Jergensen about House Bill 51, visit the Midday Metro page.

Email to a friendPosted in KCPW Newsroom and 2008 Legislative Coverage. Copyright 2008 KCPW