Newberg seeks $3.5M for groundwater treatment plant amid rising water demands

A critical funding request for community safety and infrastructure took center stage during the Oregon Legislature's Joint Committee on Ways and Means Subcommittee on Capital Construction meeting on May 16, 2025. Local leaders from Newberg and Umatilla County presented urgent needs for funding to enhance emergency response capabilities and address growing water demands.

Mayor of Umatilla County highlighted the dire state of existing facilities, stating they are "woefully antiquated and inadequate" for modern needs. The community has rallied to raise 75% of the funding required for a new emergency response facility, which will also serve as a community meeting space and emergency shelter. The mayor emphasized the urgency of securing the remaining funds, warning that without them, the community risks losing critical time-dependent funding. "Now is the time to get this project done," he urged, advocating for the inclusion of the funding request in the state budget.

In a parallel plea, Dylan Peck, a grant writer for the city of Newberg, requested $3.5 million to design a new groundwater treatment plant. Peck outlined the challenges posed by the city's rapid growth, which has strained the aging water system. With daily water demands exceeding 5 million gallons, he warned that Newberg could face severe water shortages as early as 2033 without immediate action. "An investment of $3,500,000 for design of a new groundwater treatment plant in Newberg will pay dividends for the next generation of Oregonians," he stated, underscoring the importance of this project for both public health and housing development.

These discussions reflect a pressing need for state support to address critical infrastructure challenges in Oregon, as local communities strive to meet the demands of growth and ensure safety for their residents. The outcomes of these funding requests could significantly impact the future of emergency services and water supply in the region.