Mechanicsville , VA – The following statement was issued today by Delegate Christopher K. Peace (R-97th District): The State Water Control Board should be commended for its thoughtful and deliberate action today in denying Newport News ’ request for an extension of VWP permit for the King William Reservoir. I am proud to have played a small part in its opposition. I congratulate my neighbors in King William and King and Queen counties, along with the Native American and environmental communities for keeping the faith and uniting around this important effort.
This project has cost nearly $30 million. It has spanned nearly two decades without commencing with construction. Delays are largely a result of Newport News ’ rejection of best scientific and water planning analyses on top of an insistence to build a fundamentally flawed project in spite of tremendous negative historical, cultural and environmental consequences.
Now Newport News must reapply for the permit which is due to expire next year. This renewal and reapplication process will provide the Board and the citizens of this Commonwealth an opportunity to review and secure answers to the many questions and concerns which have arisen over the many changes to the original plan
Delegate Christopher K. Peace was elected to serve in the Virginia House of Delegates on January 24, 2006 in a Special Election in which Peace won 4 of 7 counties and 65% of the District’s precincts. As the representative for the 97th District, Delegate Peace serves parts of Hanover, Caroline, King William, King and Queen, Henrico, Spotsylvania Counties and all of New Kent County . Peace now sits on the prominent House Courts of Justice, Health Welfare and Institutions, and Science and Technology Committees.
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