Funds will provide immediate but short-term relief to many drought-stricken communities within the state.Governor Jerry Brown of California, together with the Democratic leadership in the state legislature, announced on Wednesday a $687 million proposal that seeks to alleviate the water shortages caused by California’s current drought – one of the driest periods on record for the Golden State.
A majority of the funding – $549 million – will be sourced from accelerated spending from two bonds approved previously by voters. This money will be directed toward local conservation efforts, including storm water collection and recycling. About $25 million in additional resources will also come out of the state’s general fund.
The proposal – a short-term fix designed to address immediate needs rather than the long-term and historic problem of water shortage in California – now heads to the state legislature for approval.
Alberto González is the Associate Editor of Aleteia’s English edition. His prior endeavors have included working in political campaigns and in the United States Senate. He also maintains an active schedule as a liturgical vocalist and organist.
A native of California, Alberto graduated from the University of California, Berkeley with a B.A. in Music and Political Science. He currently lives in the greater Washington, D.C. area.
