Smoke signals., September 01, 1992, Image 1

THE CONFEDERATED TRIBES OF THE GRAND RONDE COMMUNITY OF OREGON September 19Q2
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Water Board Holds Meeting to
Discuss Expansion
By Tracy Olson
The Grand Ronde Water Board held a meeting August 13, at Grand Rondc
Elementary to discuss the possibility of expanding the water system in the community,
among other things.
The discussion was facilitated primarily by Ed Glass, District Manager, who
attempted to explain to residents of Grand Ronde and tribal members where the water
comes from, why the moratorium on new hook-ups exists, and why some residents of
Grand Ronde are experiencing periods of unavailable water.
The Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde has plans for development on the
tribal land, which would mandate the expansion of the existing infrastructure (water,
sewer, electricity, gas) to accommodate the needs of new facilities. This new development
includes new housing on tribal land, designed principally for Elders, many of whom
expressed interest in retiring on their homeland, and concern for the lack of housing in
this area. Development also includes a new health clinic, which would provide more
complete and convenient health services for tribal members.
Currently, a moratorium, or hold, on new water hook-ups exists, which prevents
all new homes and businesses in the area from getting water, not just tribal facilities. This
is because of the drought that has been escalating over the past year, and has been a serious
concern over the course of the summer.
Mark Mercier, Council Chairman, made a proposal that would allow the Tribe
to work with the Water Association, in order to upgrade the existing system. This would
not only provide means for the Tribe to develop, but help the Grand Ronde community,
and ensure that water is available to anyone at all times.
The plan entails a request for a $250,000 appropriation from Congress (still
pending) allowing the development of the water infrastructure in Grand Rondc. Then the
Tribe would work closely with the Water Board to make sure the upgradinggocs smoothly.
Said Mercier, "The Tribe is interested in seeing an adequate water supply to all members
of the community."
Even if Congress does approve the distribution of this money, the Water Board
does not necessarily have to accept the Tribe's offer in assisting with the expansion of the
system. However, the Water Board indicated at the meeting that their goal was indeed
to expand, although there is an existing feeling among some residents that the District
should not have to expand just to accommodate the Tribe, while others have their doubts
about how the Tribe plans to develop its land.
Mark Mercier addressed the Water Board meeting with his proposal and he
stressed the point that the Tribe's main interest lies in improving the quality of life of its
members. "Taking over the entire District is not our intent," he said.
DRUMMING AND DANCING
Pow-wow Weekend was August 14, IS, & 16. See pages 5,6 &
7 for more photos and stories.
Ed Glass, District Manager, and WesShenk
address the residents at the Board Meeting.