DNER seeks budget increase for flood control pumps

Natural and Environmental Resources Secretary Waldemar Quiles Pérez

By The Star Staff

Natural and Environmental Resources (DNER) Secretary Waldemar Quiles Pérez has asked the House Treasury Committee for a $61.6 million hike in the agency’s budget for 2025 to cover the leasing of flood control pump houses and to enhance technological infrastructure.

During a budget hearing last week chaired by Rep. Eddie Charbonier Chinea, Quiles emphasized that the increase is crucial for the operation and maintenance of the 13 pump houses located across the island. He is requesting a total allocation of $176.6 million from the General Fund.

Of this total amount, some $47.9 million will be designated for cleaning and security contracts, as well as increased insurance premiums for the pump houses. However, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has recommended $76.3 million less than the General Fund budget proposed by the DNER.

“Every time it rains, I lose sleep,” Quiles stated in response to questions from Charbonier Chinea, whose district includes some of the most flood-prone communities in San Juan. “It is extremely important for our staff at the Department of Natural Resources that the pumps are operational and updated for the 21st century.”

Quiles confirmed that he has reached an agreement worth some $30 million with the Federal Emergency Management Agency to redesign the 13 pump houses in a state-of-the-art project that includes a geographic information system (GIS). A GIS will allow monitoring of the pumps from a control room at DNER headquarters, providing real-time information on fuel levels and water levels during floods.

Particular attention will be given to the pump house located on Baldorioty de Castro Avenue in Santurce, which has historically faced significant issues during heavy rain events. Quiles noted that it currently employs outdated technology but will soon be transformed into one of the best flood-control structures in the nation.

Charbonier Chinea highlighted the necessity of acquiring security cameras as part of this “critical infrastructure” for flood control. He said the cameras would enable both rescuers and law enforcement officers to monitor water levels in communities and take preventive measures.

“Decisions can be made, and lives and property can be saved,” the legislator said. “With a simple security camera, which isn’t very expensive, we can monitor conditions and make informed decisions from both an administrative and a security perspective.”

In terms of technological efficiency, Quiles reported that the DNER is implementing digital platforms to automate licensing, permits, fines, and payment processes to enhance revenue collection. Additionally, the agency is working on digitizing documents, automating complaints, and implementing electronic invoicing to reduce long-term costs. A proposed GIS platform will also include information on fines, vessel locations, patrols, permits, and other relevant data.

“This is an ambitious project, but it is absolutely necessary given the complexity of the Department,” the secretary said. “It will provide us with a significant advantage in preparation and strategic planning, especially during hurricane season or in the event of an atmospheric disturbance. While we are not first responders, we are the ones who go out onto the streets afterwards with our equipment.”

Regarding staff recruitment, Quiles said the DNER requires a payroll budget of $68.5 million, with $47.7 million coming from the General Fund. Included in the budget is the intended hiring of 55 essential employees and an optimal number of 75 rangers. Initially, they will begin with the recruitment of 45 rangers who are currently completing training programs, as many existing positions are occupied by individuals nearing retirement.

The overall budget request by the DNER for the fiscal year 2025-2026 stands at $362 million, whereas the OMB has recommended a total of $285.8 million.