Former Senate Majority Leader Bill Stephens Says He’s Ready to Fight for Georgia’s Use of Lake Lanier in Congress
State & National Politics |
7/21/09 Former State Senator Bill Stephens stresses the importance of a solution to Judge Magnuson’s ruling as Georgia’s Congressional delegation meets today to decide the next steps for the future of Lake Lanier’s water. U.S. Congressman Nathan Deal, a candidate for Governor in 2010 who currently represents the 9th District, where Lake Lanier is located, is also on record calling for an expedited resolution to this tri-state water compact. “This puts a lot of pressure on the Congressman that replaces Representative Deal next November,” says Stephens. “Experience, vision and maturity will matter more than ever since Georgia water will now become a national issue. A solution needs to be made quickly and North Georgia needs a strong, proactive advocate in Congress to get the necessary votes for Georgia to receive an adequate amount of this water. I have the coalition building experience and personal interest to be the strongest advocate in Washington and fight for Georgia’s rights to a large portion of Lake Lanier’s water.” “This is a real life crisis for metro Atlanta and the Georgia’s 9th Congressional District’s use of Lake Lanier for all purposes related to water,” says Senator Stephens. “I grew up near Lakes Blue Ridge, Nottely and Chatuge and know the importance of water to North Georgia. As the Senator representing the area, and as Senate Majority leader, I followed the interstate water negotiations as closely as anyone. I also helped form the 1071 Coalition with the objective of returning Lake Lanier back to its ‘full pool’ level of 1071 feet above sea level” This newly formed coalition is focusing upon three things: a study to document the economic impact of Lake Lanier on the Georgia Economy, providing credible experts and assisting our Federal and State officials in their fight on our behalf and serving as a public relations voice in the fight between the states involved. The Governors of Alabama, Georgia and Florida will meet to discuss an agreement to the 20-year pending resolution to the tri-state water agreement. If they do not come to a mutual decision, the bill will go to the U.S. Congress where all 50 states and roughly 500 politicians will be the decision makers, most of which having no relevance to the issue. |
