Oakland County, Michigan (April 2, 2008)

WASHINGTON, D.C. National Association of Counties (NACo) President Eric Coleman has appointed Oakland County Drain Commissioner John P. McCulloch to the associations Waters of the U.S. Task Force (WOUS).

The task force was recently established by the association to solicit suggestions or feedback from county officials across the country on what they think should be changed in the Clean Water Act (CWA) that both strengthens the local voice while ensuring the protection of clean water. Congress is currently considering legislation (the Clean Water Restoration Act or CWRA) to expand the reach of the CWA by eliminating the word navigable from the definition of U.S. waters under its jurisdiction.

NACo members approved policy last July to oppose this change, believing that it will cause unfunded mandates and preemptions on counties. The nations counties strongly support the CWA and pledge to work with the bills sponsors to ensure that any proposed changes to the CWA are both effective and workable for local governments.

I am pleased that Drain Commissioner McCulloch has agreed to serve on NACos Waters of the U.S. Task Force, said Coleman, commissioner, Oakland County, Michigan. Its most helpful to have local experts on board with the association and its membership as we work with members of Congress on these important national issues.

McCulloch said he was looking forward to serving on the WOUS task force. Its a natural extension of my water-protection responsibilities at the local level, McCulloch said.
The task force is expected to have a list of recommendations, including alternative language proposals to the CWRA, by NACos Annual Conference in Jackson County, Mo. July 1115.

###

The National Association of Counties (NACo) is the only national organization that represents county governments in the United States.  Founded in 1935, NACo provides essential services to the nations 3,066 counties.  NACo advances issues with a unified voice before the federal government, improves the public's understanding of county government, assists counties in finding and sharing innovative solutions through education and research, and provides value-added services to save counties and taxpayers money.  For more information about NACo, visit www.naco.org.