Paul Sawyer, the executive director of the Amite River Basin Commission, has a long history in congressional delegation, having worked for Congressman Baker and Garrett Graves. His career has focused on flood control and protecting homes and structures. The Amite River Basin Commission, which has been around for decades, was recently reinvented by the legislature to address recurring floods, such as those in 1983 and 2016. The commission now consists of 13 members, including seven parish presidents who are accountable to their constituents.The commission's jurisdiction extends from the Mississippi line to Lake Maurepas, covering parishes like East Feliciana, East Baton Rouge, Livingston, Ascension, and St. James.
The commission's mission is to protect homes and communities from flood risk, which can lead to lower flood insurance premiums.A significant project for the commission is the Comite Diversion Project. Initially, the commission's role was to acquire properties and rights of way, while the Corps of Engineers would build the canal. Now, the commission acts as an ombudsman, helping to resolve issues and facilitate progress. Sawyer, leveraging his relationships with various governmental bodies, aims to expedite problem-solving.Sawyer estimates that the Comite Diversion Project will be functional by 2028, although he hopes it will be completed sooner.
His experience with the project, dating back to the 1990s, informs his cautious optimism. Despite past delays, Sawyer believes the necessary elements are in place for timely completion, but he remains realistic about potential setbacks.
