Local leaders describe project barriers: Woodland, Pajaro and coastal valleys seek streamlined permitting and regional solutions

Local officials and regional agencies used the Assembly hearing to describe on-the-ground barriers to completing flood projects, including permitting delays, funding limits and local political dynamics.

Ken Hyatt, city manager of Woodland, described a project authorized by the Army Corps that would protect the city but not a nearby agricultural area. A local 2002 ballot measure and a subsequent campaign blocked a later city-backed ballot to proceed with a similar project. "The opposition was very persuasive and well funded and convinced the voters that it was not in the interest of our community," Hyatt said. He asked the state to help identify broader…