(Submitted by State Senator Theresa Gavarone)
State Senator Theresa Gavarone, R-Bowling Green, and Sean O’Brien, D-Bazetta, today announced the introduction of legislation to fund clean water improvements across Ohio, particularly in Lake Erie.
The resolution would grant authority to the state to issue bonds to finance the costs of clean water enhancements, like water treatment, the reduction of open lake disposal of dredged material and support for nutrient management best practices.
“Improving the water quality in Lake Erie is one of my top priorities for this General Assembly,” said Gavarone. “This resolution is another step in the legislature’s ongoing effort to protect one of Ohio’s greatest natural resources. I am thankful for the past efforts of former Senator Randy Gardner and Representative Arndt and look forward to working alongside Senator O’Brien on this very important provision for our state’s water quality.”
The bonds would be issued over a 10-year period with a maximum annual issue of $100 million. The resolution would require voter approval after the General Assembly votes to submit it as a ballot issue.
“As an avid outdoorsman with many miles of Lake Erie shoreline in my own district, it has long been a priority of mine to ensure the health and wellbeing, not only of the Lake, but all of Ohio’s waterways,” said O’Brien. “I look forward to working with Senator Gavarone to continue building on the achievements of Senate Bill 299 from the last General Assembly, which I was proud to sponsor with former state Senator Randy Gardner.”
