NW Kentucky News

Chairman James Comer of the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability led a congressional forum in Kentucky to discuss the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' assessment of administrative fees. Comer emphasized the impact of unclear fees on small business owners, particularly marina operators in Kentucky, and highlighted the need for transparency and fairness in fee policies.

In his opening remarks at the forum, Chairman Comer stated, "I would like to welcome everyone to today’s Congressional forum regarding how the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers assesses administrative fees." He further highlighted the importance of supporting businesses in the tourism industry, like those around Lake Cumberland, and the need to address concerns regarding the Corps' fee practices.

Comer mentioned the MARINA Act, legislation he introduced to address the inconsistencies in fee charges. He explained, "This legislation standardizes the framework for calculating administrative fees... and ensures they are for non-routine Corps district functions." Comer expressed his commitment to working with colleagues to advance the MARINA Act and improve fee policies for marina operators nationwide.

The forum also addressed the Government Accountability Office's study on the Corps' fee management, which revealed discrepancies and inconsistencies in fee-setting criteria. Comer emphasized the importance of exploring solutions to ensure fair and consistent fee practices to support the development of recreational infrastructure at Corps managed properties across the United States.

Comer concluded by expressing his eagerness to engage in dialogue with the Corps and GAO to address the issues identified in the study. He thanked the witnesses for their participation in the forum and looked forward to the insights and recommendations that would emerge from the discussions.

The forum highlighted the need for reforms in the Corps' fee assessment process to support small business owners and promote investment in recreational infrastructure nationwide. Chairman Comer's efforts to address these concerns through the MARINA Act demonstrate a commitment to advocating for fair and transparent fee policies for marina operators.