OLYMPIA — A bill concerning irrigation districts sponsored by Rep. Susan Fagan, R-Pullman, passed the Senate with a unanimous vote.

House Bill 3030 allows irrigation districts to have a small works roster up to $300,000. Currently it is $100,000.

“Small works rosters allow local governments to be more efficient in getting work done by outside contractors, while still protecting the rights of all those who want to be considered for those projects,” Fagan explained, noting that the limit has not been updated since 1990. “The bid limits need to be reviewed and updated periodically to recognize the general increase in the cost of projects over time.”

The bill also benefits the Grand Coulee Project Hydroelectric Authority (GCPHA) concerning how they save money for future costs.

“The GCPHA generates power at plants on project canals,” Fagan stated. “By starting to set aside funds now, they will be in a better position to meet anticipated expenses for the coming Federal Energy Regulatory Commission re-licensing. They also would be able to repair or replace equipment as it wears out without taking such a big hit at one time.”

Originally published March 10, 2010