Industry warns permit delays as public hearing opens on HB 5010, DOGAMI budget

Members of the Natural Resources Subcommittee held a public hearing Feb. 6 on House Bill 5010, the governor’s budget request for the Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI). Testimony ranged from industry opposition over permit backlogs and proposed fee increases to support from carbon-removal companies and labor representatives who said the funding could advance climate and energy projects.

The Oregon Concrete Aggregate Producers Association urged the subcommittee to reconsider elements of the proposal. "We are here to testify in opposition to the policy package that's been presented to you," said Rich Angstrom, president of the Oregon Concrete Aggregate Producers Association. He told the committee the proposal would increase DOGAMI staff from about 16 to 28 and "will triple the fees to the construction materials companies." Angstrom said permit backlogs are affecting commerce and the ability to supply materials for transportation projects and that his industry is negotiating with the governor’s office and DOGAMI on the package.

Why it matters: DOGAMI issues permits…