I have been a member of EWUA since the early 1990s, and have often appreciated the cooperation and assistance of EWUA staff.
Until I received the EWUA letter of September 18 I had no idea that I might be violating any EWUA rule. I have never received a copy of the Bylaws or Operating Rules from EWUA, any ‘heads up’ from staff or been otherwise informed of any problem with my water membership. When I put in a garden this summer I had my first “overage” on water usage, and paid the extra charge, understanding that my water expenses are based upon usage.
I was as shocked by the content of this letter as I was by its aggressive tone. A years-old bylaw which has never been publicized or enforced suddenly requires that 80 or more members in good standing must fork up thousands of dollars in the near future and have 50 percent higher water bills forever? Having nothing whatsoever to do with water usage? EWUA’s menacing tone toward members such as myself, in writing, and the unpleasant visit to my place of business where Mr. Kamin created a lengthy ruckus, motivated me to research a bit and ask some questions. I began with the EWUA website, where some bylaws contradict each other, and where I could find neither a list of current board members, minutes of meetings nor any financial statements whatsoever.
Today I sent a letter to the EWUA board and manager requesting information that all members should have: When and why was this sudden initiative determined?
When was the last water system plan submitted to DOH, and when is the next one due?
Where’s the annual financial statement?
Where are the minutes and records of notifications, specifically regarding adoption of this bylaw amendment?
If EWUA is a Group A water system, why are the half-meter requirements of a Group B water system being applied?
Are current members who get a new .5 [ERU] membership considered “future members,” paying for expansion of the system?
I really want to understand how/if this initiative is in the best interest of EWUA members.
Susan Malins
Orcas Island
