Letter to the Editor: Let’s Clear Up Some Misconceptions

After reading a “Letter to the Editor” yesterday in the Sounder, I am compelled to clarify a number of misconceptions and errors made by people over the previous year regarding the drilling of wells in the Orcas Highlands.

The idea of drilling wells in the Highlands was initiated by the Eastsound Sewer and Water District (ESWD) board and approved by their entire board. It is incorrect to think that any one person was responsible for this decision. The goal was straightforward – to find a local source of water for the Highlands and separate them from Washington Water Services in order to devalue the water system so ESWD could buy it. The take-over of the Rosario Water Plant by ESWD was the primary intention of the Annexation voted upon by Rosario, Vusario, Otters Lair and Highlands residents on February 22, 2008 (approved by a 72.4% margin).

When the Highlands Board was approached by ESWD the idea was agreed to only under the strict stipulation that the Highlands would bear none of the expenses. This was a risk investment made by ESWD and was intended to find a water supply that was of sufficient quantity and quality. Then, if the residents of the Orcas Highlands Association voted to agree, ESWD would have taken over as the purveyor of water for the community.

Contrary to the misleading information that you may have read, there was indeed a “contract” clearly spelled out as a “Memorandum of Understanding” (a legal agreement) dated October 27, 2009 and signed by both parties.

Unfortunately, the drilling failed. The water located was found to be contaminated with e-coli and unsuitable for consumption without expensive treatment. The project did not meet the requirements of the Memorandum of Understanding and, therefore ended, carrying no further obligations on either party. In the end ESWD did invest $90,000 in the process but it has not been worthless. They own the rights to the well and have a permanent lease to the land the well is located on. Perhaps this will not bring revenue in the near future but I can imagine the investment will turn out to be very profitable as water sources on the island become more scarce while demand increases.

As the President of the Orcas Highlands Association at the time of these negotiations, I can explain the agreement accurately and clearly. I don’t see any reason to blame ESWD or the Highlands Board for a situation in which both acted with the best intentions.

Jim Hennessey
Orcas Highlands resident