09/07/2007: "Statement For the Stormwater Funding Referendum"

We urge you to vote to REJECT Ordinance 2006-20
Rejecting this Ordinance will send the issue back to the County Council to reconsider the way that we fund important stormwater projects to insure clean water, a healthy environment and County compliance with the GMA.

Although a citizen's committee and experts worked hard on the proposed content of the Ordinance, many of the suggestions and advice of the citizens and experts was disregarded in the passage of Ordinance 2006-20.

The shortfalls in Ordinance 20-2006 are clear. There is no provision for landowner mitigation of stormwater impacts, there is no cap on the amount charged, no sunset clause, and no consideration of equity in the fees charged. There is no accountability since the charges are assessed and the dollars spent by Public Works and the complaints and appeals are reviewed by Public Works.

In voting to reject Ordinance 20-2006 you will be giving the County Council an opportunity to craft a stormwater funding law that establishes a partnership between landowners and government. We need an Ordinance that responsibly deals with storm and groundwater concerns, is fair to landowners, and respects the needs and diversity of the beautiful islands of San Juan County.

Alexandra Gavora
Francine Shaw
Julie Palmer