Council Delays OK on Navy Land Deal

Concerned that there are not enough provisions in a bill awaiting President Clinton’s signature to replenish the sand on the beaches of its city, the Port Hueneme City Council has delayed signing off on a deal that would allow the Port of Hueneme to annex 33 acres of U.S. Navy property.

Council members said they are worried that even though the federal government has agreed to take responsibility for the beach erosion, there is no money set aside for an ongoing replenishment program. Construction of the port has disrupted natural downstream movement of the sand, causing erosion and threatening city and private property.

“It’s the federal government action that has caused the erosion,” Councilman Orvene Carpenter said. “We want them to be aware that it’s their responsibility to replace it.

“It’s all right [for the federal government] to say it’s their responsibility, but someone will have to come up with the money,” he said.

The decision to delay approval means the Port of Hueneme will have to wait until at least Oct. 16 to acquire the property, which harbor district officials want to use to expand operations.