During a recent government meeting, Robert Butler, a resident and port owner, raised significant concerns regarding the financial implications of the new Bull Run water treatment plant project. Butler emphasized that the total cost of the project is approximately $3 billion, a figure he calculated by adding $900 million in interest to the initial capital cost of $2.1 billion. He urged city council members to acknowledge this higher figure, which he believes is crucial for public awareness.

Butler also highlighted a critical development affecting water supply and revenue. He noted that Gresham and the Walton Valley Water District are set to transition away from Bull Run water by 2026, which will result in a loss of 26 million gallons per day in customer demand. This shift is projected to decrease revenues by about 13%, equating to a loss of $400 million. Butler expressed concern that this financial shortfall would deplete the city’s reserve funds, which he stated are now in the negative by $250 million.

Following Butler's testimony, the meeting proceeded to regular agenda items, including the approval of contracts for local construction projects. The council accepted a recommendation to award a contract to Excavation Incorporated for the North Schmeer Road project, valued at approximately $1.43 million, and another contract to Raymore Construction LLC for the 82nd Avenue major maintenance project, with a guaranteed maximum price of $42.8 million.