by Caroline Pufalt
The controversy over whistle–blower revelations in the Army Corps of Engineer study of the need for lock expansion has already produced some changes in the Corps. (See related article by Mark Beokrem) The Army recently announced that decisions regarding the Corps’ multi–billion dollar civil works program will ultimately rest with the Army Assistant Secretary. That position is now held by Joseph Westphal. Although the Assistant Secretary has always had jurisdiction over civil works, the Corps admitted that relationship had weakened over time. Its new instructions will tighten that line of command. The Corps also took action to coordinate contacts with Congress through Corps civilian personnel only.
Will these new changes get to the root of the problem that lead to what is now sometimes dubbed “Bargegate”? Only time will tell. But in the meantime, Missouri Senator Bond is continuing to support the Corps and the navigation project. Commenting on recent changes, Senator Bond has complained about undue Washington influence over the Corps. Others see recent changes as an effort to ensure accountability, honesty, and fair employee treatment within the Corps.
The situation still calls for citizens to speak up against the lock expansion. The expansion will cost taxpayers up to a billion dollars, it will not help Midwest farmers significantly, it will increase barge traffic and harm the already stressed Mississippi River environment.