In a recent meeting of the Orange County Board of Supervisors, discussions centered around a potential collaboration with Greene County aimed at addressing water resource challenges. The meeting, held on December 3, 2024, highlighted the urgent need for a strategic partnership to enhance water resilience in the face of ongoing drought concerns.

The conversation began with a consensus among board members regarding the need for a resolution to explore this collaboration. The county administrator presented a proposal that would allow Orange County to access stored water from Greene County's permitted reservoir project. This initiative stems from previous discussions about the county's water supply, particularly following a mineral oil incident that raised concerns about water quality and availability.

Greene County's reservoir, while not yet funded or under construction, presents a unique opportunity for Orange County. The plan suggests that, in the short term, Orange County could benefit from stored water in Greene County's reservoir, which would be crucial for drought response and other immediate needs. In exchange, Orange County would consider a financial contribution to Greene County's project, creating a mutually beneficial arrangement.

The proposal aims to establish a framework where Orange County could utilize water from Greene County's reservoir while both counties work on their long-term water solutions. This partnership could alleviate immediate water supply pressures and foster collaboration between the two counties.

As the board moved forward, they directed their county administrator and staff to engage with Greene County officials to explore the feasibility of this partnership. The resolution will pave the way for further discussions on the specifics of the collaboration, including financial implications and permitting processes.

This initiative reflects a proactive approach to managing water resources in the region, emphasizing the importance of cooperation between neighboring counties to ensure sustainable water access for their communities. As the situation develops, residents can expect updates on the progress of this significant partnership.