He recommended the public comment process be followed so the public would know these water bodies are being considered and comment can be taken and a record developed. Bert Henriksen commented if that is the case, perhaps the Board should just accept the petition today and go forward with public comment. Marti Calabretta requested that recommendation be given to the Board in writing. Steve Allred felt it was most important to have a strategy to be successful at the legislative level. He suggested between now and June they determine not only which water bodies to go forward with, but also develop a strategy to be successful.
Staff can work with the petitioners to prioritize the water bodies, if desired.
Quane Kenyon asked if DEQ had the resources in staff time and money to do the work needed. Mr. Allred indicated his staff was fully utilized at this time, but they would attempt to shift priorities to accommodate this project. Bert Henriksen asked if it was the consensus of the Board that DEQ should work with the petitioner to prioritize the water bodies. Dallas Gudgell stated they would be willing to work with DEQ to prioritize the water bodies. He doubted ICL would withdraw any water bodies, but they would certainly consider prioritizing them.