5 Components of a Compact Negotiation Framewor

• Title: Colorado’s Interbasin Compact Negotiations: Development of an Institutional Framework - Components of a Compact Negotiation Framework
• Date: 12/17/2004
• Author: Russell George, Frank McNulty, Peter Nichols, Eric Hecox
• IBCC - Doc Type: Program Planning, Budget & Contracts

Revised: 7/26/2007

4. Timeframe
Importance
This component is two fold. First, lasting compacts take time. Patience is needed
because the longer discussions continue the more likely the parties will drift towards a
middle ground. However, there must also be some pres sure so negotiations do not result
in endless gridlock.

Second, entering compact negotiations must be voluntary, but the process will not work
unless all compacts are negotiated within the same timeframe.

Ideas/Suggestions
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Stable and consistent politic al and financial support will be important for allowing the
time necessary for negotiations.

A well designed Compact Commission, adequate basin representation, and
o
broader public participation and buy - in will provide the needed consistent
political support .

Consistent financial support will come from long - term funding mechanisms,
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including CWCB funds (see #10).
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All compacts must be negotiated within the same timeframe.

Anticipated Course of Action
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The design of the compact negotiation framework will provid e the necessary political
support.
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Long - term funding mechanisms will be pursued to provide consistent financial support.
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Strong leadership from the Compact Commission will be used to convince all parties that
it is in their best interest to negotiate compa cts within the same timeframe. However, the
ultimate decision to voluntarily enter the process is up to the stakeholders.

5. Umbrella Organization – The Colorado Interbasin Compact Commission
Importance
Outside leadership will be critical to keep the parti es at the table and expand the
traditional thought processes. Leadership must be able to convince others of their
fairness, ability, kindness, and wisdom.

It is anticipated that legislative action in 2005 will establish the institutional framework
for in terbasin compact negotiations. This framework could take a variety of shapes.
However, agreement is coalescing around the establishment of an umbrella organization.
This “Colorado Interbasin Compact Commission” (Compact Commission) would guide
and overs ee the compact negotiation process. Details on the Compact Commission will
be outlined in a separate document, however a components include:
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The Governor (through DNR) will have to expend political capital to move
the process along.
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The Governor will appo int the head of the Compact Commission (The
Compact Commissioner).
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