Laserfiche WebLink
<br />- 2 - <br /> <br />However, these agreements are for the purpose of improving <br />consultation and cooperation, and do not administratively reverse <br />the law as written by Congress and interpreted by the courts. A <br />good example is our MOA with the Washington Department of Ecology <br />concerning dam safety, <br /> <br />I remain committed to establishing better relations with the <br />states. I have taken steps to ensure that their interests are <br />fully considered in the Commission's decision-making processes. <br />I recently implemented improvements in the Commission's NEPA <br />process specifically designed to increase local participation, <br />In addition, the Commission recently issued a Notice of Proposed <br />Policy statement to confirm that the Commission, during a license <br />term, may use reopener conditions in licenses to revisit (on its <br />own motion or that of another entity, including a state) public <br />interest decisions made at the time of licensing and, if <br />necessary, to amend a license to reflect changed conditions, <br />Similarly, the Commission issued a Notice of Inquiry regarding <br />appropriate policies for decommissioning hydroelectric projects. <br />I specifically invite the Council to fully ventilate its views on <br />these important issues. <br /> <br />I am very supportive of state comprehensive waterway <br />planning and believe developers carry a heavy burden when they <br />ask the commission to act inconsistently with a comprehensive <br />plan that accounts for all public interest considerations, I <br />also strongly support settlements reflecting a consensus of the <br />participants to a proceeding, I would work to adopt such <br />settlements if they are consistent with the law and do not <br />interfere with a substantial federal interest. <br /> <br />In closing, let me reemphasize my desire to work <br />cooperatively with state governments. Having been born and <br />raised in Utah, I can assure you that I recognize the vital role <br />that water and water rights play in the West. I want to assure <br />you the Commission will carry out its responsibilities with <br />sensitivity to your concerns. <br /> <br />with best wishes, <br /> <br />Sincerely, <br /> <br />~~~,'N\~ <br /> <br />Elizabeth A. Moler <br />Chair <br /> <br />, . <br /> <br />. <br /> <br />... <br /> <br />e <br />