1 May 2024

TFG Grants Welcomes Chris Wagoner as Grants Specialist

Chris brings decades of experience in the public sector and disaster mitigation and response to TFG Grants.

TFG Grants Welcomes Chris Wagoner as Grants Specialist

CHICO, CALIF. – The TFG Grants Division is pleased to welcome Chris Wagoner as Grants Specialist. Chris previously worked alongside the firm as a member of the TFG Grants Consultant Network, and the firm is pleased to transition Chris into a full-time position at the firm. Chris brings a wealth of experience having served in the United States Air Force, in academia as a lecturer in History and Political Science at California State University, Chico, and in the public sector in disaster mitigation and response.

"We are thrilled to welcome Chris Wagoner to our TFG Grants Division! Chris’ impressive track record and deep understanding of grant project readiness and writing makes him a valuable addition to our team,” said Kristi More, Managing Partner of Strategic Development. “His extensive background in community safety and disaster mitigation projects has set precedents for success, and we look forward to the expertise and transformative impact he will bring to support our clients' initiatives."

"I’m excited for the opportunity to apply my experience on the TFG Grants Division,” said Chris. “My career has always been about making a tangible difference in communities nationwide, and I look forward to leveraging my skills to help our clients navigate complex challenges and reach their goals. Working with such a dedicated team at TFG, I'm eager to contribute to impactful solutions that enhance community resilience.”

Prior to joining TFG, Chris began his career in the United States Air Force, serving during Operation Enduring Freedom. Following his time serving in the military, he became a lecturer in History and Political Science at California State University, Chico. Chris has also served in various disaster mitigation and response roles at the California Office of Emergency Services (CALOES), notably during the Carr and Camp Fire efforts. He also has experience working directly with municipal and state entities in emergency proclamations as Program Manager for Special Projects and Declarations. Additionally, Chris has served as Program Manager and lead Grant Writer for the Resource Conservation District of Tehama County in California and has extensive experience in fuel reduction and fire prevention projects. Chris holds a Bachelor of Arts in History and a master’s degree in public administration from California State University, Chico.

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Overview

The Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) serves as the primary vehicle through which Congress authorizes U.S. Army Corps of Engineers civil works projects and establishes policy frameworks for water resource development nationwide. Enacted on a biennial schedule, WRDAs provide congressional authorization for USACE to conduct feasibility studies, construct flood risk reduction projects, improve navigation infrastructure, restore aquatic ecosystems, and assist with environmental infrastructure development.
Since the enactment of WRDA 1986, Congress has used these omnibus authorization bills to both create new USACE authorities and refine existing programs based on evolving national priorities and lessons learned from program implementation. Recent WRDAs have addressed critical issues including drought resilience, water supply development, infrastructure modernization, and support for economically disadvantaged communities.
The most recent legislation, the Water Resources Development Act of 2024 (WRDA 2024, P.L. 118-272), continued Congress's bipartisan commitment to strengthening America's water infrastructure by authorizing new construction projects, modifying existing authorities, and establishing updated policy guidance for USACE operations. WRDA 2024 also authorized five new regional environmental infrastructure programs, each incorporating flexible delivery mechanisms that allow federal assistance to be provided through grants or reimbursements to nonfederal sponsors.
Authorization through WRDA is typically a prerequisite for USACE activities to receive federal appropriations through the annual Energy and Water Development appropriations process. This two-step framework—authorization followed by appropriation—ensures congressional oversight of both program scope and funding levels.
Section 219 of WRDA 1992, as amended, represents one of USACE's most geographically expansive environmental infrastructure assistance authorities. Originally enacted to authorize design assistance for 18 specific projects, Section 219 has been amended by subsequent Congresses to authorize both design and construction assistance for water-related environmental infrastructure in hundreds of municipalities, counties, and states across the nation.
The Congressional Research Service has identified over 600 environmental infrastructure assistance authorities with cumulative authorizations of appropriations totaling approximately $18.1 billion. Section 219 authorities constitute the majority of these geographically specific project authorizations, covering at least 46 states, the District of Columbia, and four U.S. territories.
Section 219 projects address critical community needs including wastewater treatment facilities, water supply and distribution systems, stormwater management infrastructure, surface water protection, and environmental restoration. These projects support public health, environmental quality, and economic development in communities that have secured congressional authorization for USACE assistance.
Congress has continued to expand Section 219 in recent legislation. WRDA 2022 added 132 new Section 219 authorities and amended 24 existing authorities. WRDA 2024 authorized an additional 193 new Section 219 authorities and amended 53 existing authorities, providing a combined $5.4 billion increase in authorization of appropriations. WRDA 2024 also established a seven-year pilot program to increase the federal cost share from 75 percent to 90 percent for Section 219 projects benefiting economically disadvantaged communities.
Unlike traditional USACE water resource projects, Section 219 assistance does not require completion of the agency's standard feasibility study process. However, projects receiving Section 219 assistance must comply with applicable federal environmental laws, including the National Environmental Policy Act.
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