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,. } M m d") N 0 Under present irrigation district laws, our districts levy taxes on all lands within the districts. However, we believe that our districts need the power to make special assessments or toll charges that pertain only to properties that are being served by improved laterals. These charges would be to collect the amounts which have historically been spent by the affected water users, and the Federal Government would pay the balance. Reclamation, then payment of such compensation would not require a vote of the district's qualified voters. 5. Conveyance of title. If a district for any reason needed to transfer an interest in property to the United States, the district would have the authority to do so without a vote of its qualified voters.. b, Authority to obtain loans to defray expenses. If we need to wait for the Federal Government to reimburse us for the operation and maintenance of the improved system, this provision enables the districts to borrow money until reimbursement is made. Reclamation will pay the interest expenses for such loans. 6. Compensation of directors of contracting district. Under current irrigation district laws, the amounts paid to a director are limited. This provision allows a director to be reimbursed for services rendered while performing any duties within a salinity control contract. Under the salinity control program, those additional reimbursements would be funded by Reclamation, 4. Power of eminent domain. Under the Reclamation segment of the Federal salinity control program, participation will be voluntary in relation to each lateral. However, we believe that if a majority of the water users on a lateral have chosen to include their lateral in the program and it is necessary to condemn land, then the district should have the power of eminent domain. Eminent domain is the right to take property for public use, upon payment of just compensation. This provision states that if compensation is reimbursed by It is our intent to pursue these changes in the 1988 Colorado Legislative session, beginning in the winter of 1987.88. (Legislative bills have to be filed by December I st of each year). Once these changes are completed, our boards will work toward preparing a contract between Reclamation and the district who will be representing those water users who elect to improve their laterals or choose to participate in the operation and maintenance portion of the salinity program. We hope that this newsletter has explained the need and purpose of the proposed legislation. Please feel free to call one of our board members, however, if you would like more information or clarification aboutthe legislation or the salinity control program.