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EPA withholds 85 million meant to fund environmental justice projects in Oregon

Warm Springs, ORLocal News

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has put more than $1. 7 billion in grants on hold, impacting ten projects in Oregon, including a much-anticipated $16 million community center in Chiloquin. This facility is intended to serve as both a climate resilience hub and a disaster shelter for local residents. The suspension, ordered by EPA Director Lee Zeldin, was announced in early March, with officials claiming it was necessary to curb wasteful federal spending. However, only $3 million of the promised $88 million for Oregon projects has been disbursed so far, leaving over $85 million in limbo.

Local leaders and advocates are calling for answers, emphasizing the critical nature of these funds for communities facing economic hardship and climate challenges. The situation has garnered the attention of U. S. Senate Democrats, who have raised concerns about the legality of withholding Congressionally approved funding. Oregon Senator Jeff Merkley has also sought clarity regarding the cancellation of these crucial grants.

As communities await resolution, the implications of this funding delay are significant, impacting not just local projects but broader efforts in environmental justice and climate preparedness.

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