The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) is seeking legislative approval to increase permitting and licensing fees. The proposed fee changes include 101 increases, 45 new fees, and nine decreases. DNREC Secretary Greg Patterson emphasized the importance of these increases to cover rising costs such as salaries, technology, equipment, and environmental initiatives.
The fee revenue, categorized as appropriated special funds (ASF), makes up a significant portion of DNREC’s budget, with only 22% coming from the state’s general fund. If the proposed fee package is approved, it is expected to add $8 to $9 million to DNREC’s base budget of $160 million.
In addition to fee increases, DNREC is also requesting a 7.4% general fund increase to cover employee salaries, benefits, and other expenses. The department is also seeking funding for the Delaware Environmental Laboratory, which is being built with a combination of ARPA funds and state funding.
DNREC is also working on the Indian River Inlet replenishment project following dune breaches last year. The department reported over 7.4 million state park visitors in Fiscal Year 2024 and is expecting 7.5 million visitors in Fiscal Year 2026. The new lab, set to open in 2026, will replace outdated facilities and primarily focus on water testing.
Overall, DNREC’s efforts aim to ensure sustainable funding for the department’s operations and environmental initiatives for the benefit of the state and its residents.
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