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A city Historic Landmarks Commission hearing earlier this month that focused on plans to make major changes to city reservoirs in Washington Park went smoothly, but one member of the commission still has his doubts.

The $76 million project includes construction of a new underground reservoir to replace two existing open-air reservoirs, demolition of the historic Weir Building, restoration work to dams and gatehouses, and a new hiking path.

Plans also call for the addition of a reflecting pool on top of a buried reservoir in the same location as existing Reservoir 3, which is set to be demolished. In addition, a series of tiered pools and a nature area will be built on the current location of Reservoir 4, which also is scheduled for demolition.

City officials announced last year they had received a mandate from the Oregon Health Authority to follow a federal regulation that outlaws the use of uncovered reservoirs to store drinking water, leading to the plans for changing the park’s reservoir system.

During the recent hearing, a handful of people testified both for and against the project. Among those testifying was John Czarnecki, a former member of the Historic Landmarks Commission, who spoke about what he feels is the historic character of Reservoir 4. Czarnecki also wrote a letter to the landmarks commission in which he stated that Reservoir 4 鈥渋s worthy of conservation for continued use鈥� and should be retained.

While four of the commission member said they support the $76 million project, Commissioner Harris Matarazzo said he agrees with Czarnecki’s assessment of Reservoir 4.

Matarazzo added that he feels the reservoirs have been poorly maintained and wants more reassurance from the water bureau about the future.

鈥淲e don’t have any assurance from the water bureau that historic structures would remain,鈥� he said. 鈥淢y real concern is whether any new projects will be maintained.鈥�

Another formal review of the reservoir plans will be held before the Landmarks Commission at 4:30 p.m. on Sept. 9.