U.S. Congressman Tom O’Halleran, who represents Arizona’s 1st District, recently submitted 10 funding requests for community projects to the House Appropriations Committee, and two of those requests involved a project in Globe.

The first request, if approved, would go to the Army Corps of Engineers for a feasibility study of a small flood damage control project that would make needed repairs to the McCormick Wash tunnel and diversion dam in Globe, structures which date to the 1920s. If approved, the funds would allow the Corps to begin the study. O’Halleran’s request stated that Globe faces increased flooding risk until the McCormick Wash repairs are complete.

During an April 27 meeting, the Globe City Council approved Mayor Al Gameros’ signature on a on a letter of support for O’Halleran’s request. “This is something to help us get some additional funding from the federal government,” said City Manager Paul Jepson. “We’ve been in communication with the Corps prior to the pandemic, and are in communication now. Our federal lobbyist, Bob Holmes, was able to approach Congressman O’Halleran about possibly doing an earmark to cover the $100,000 for the feasibility study.”

Under guidelines issued by the House Appropriations Committee, each Representative may request funding for up to 10 projects in their community for fiscal year 2022, though not all might be funded. Only state and local governments, and eligible non-profit organizations, are allowed to receive funds through such requests.