The bill emphasizes the necessity for increased scrutiny and oversight by the Department of Public Health on matters affecting drinking water supply areas. Specifically, it proposes amendments to the general statutes that would empower the Commissioner of Public Health to submit written testimonies regarding any municipal plans or zoning changes that may impact public water supplies. It also introduces a new fee schedule to cover additional review costs, which aims to streamline the application process while ensuring thorough oversight.
Summary
House Bill 05620, titled 'An Act Concerning Protection of Watershed Lands', seeks to enhance the protection and preservation of water supply watershed lands in Connecticut. The proposed legislation mandates that the Commissioner of Public Health revamps the procedures involved in the review of applications that concern the sale or development of land managed by water companies located on public drinking water supply watersheds. This move is aimed at ensuring that any potential development or land use changes do not compromise the integrity and safety of public drinking water resources.
Contention
Although the bill aims to protect a vital resource, it may face challenges regarding the balance between development interests and environmental protection. Proponents of the bill argue that stricter regulations are necessary to preserve drinking water quality, especially in light of increasing development pressures on watershed lands. Conversely, opponents may contend that the new fees and regulations could burden developers and municipalities, complicating land use and hindering potential infrastructure improvements or economic development initiatives in those areas.