Eastsound Water cited for repeated safety violations

Total penalties exceed $24,000

||| FROM CORY HARRINGTON |||

Eastsound Water Users Association has received multiple safety and health citations from the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) following workplace inspections conducted in 2025 and early 2026.

The most recent inspection (March 2026) resulted in several violations—many classified as “serious”—with penalties totaling $9,792.

This follows earlier citations issued in:

• October 2025 – $2,448
• December 2025 – $12,240

In total, L&I has assessed over $24,000 in penalties against Eastsound Water within a relatively short period.

These violations fall under Washington Administrative Code (WAC) safety standards and generally relate to workplace safety requirements, including employee protection and operational practices. “Serious” violations indicate conditions where there is a substantial probability of injury if not corrected.

In each case, Eastsound Water is required to correct the violations and certify that corrective actions have been completed.

Workplace safety compliance is a fundamental responsibility for any organization, particularly one responsible for critical infrastructure.

This pattern of citations comes at a time when members have been raising broader questions about governance, oversight, and decision-making—questions that remain largely unanswered.

Taken together, these developments raise concerns about whether adequate systems are in place to ensure consistent compliance and accountability.

Eastsound Water plays an essential role in the community. Members should be able to trust that operations meet established safety standards and that appropriate oversight is in place.

L&I inspection records are public and available for review.

If you are a member, now is an important time to stay informed, ask questions, and stay engaged.