GOLETA WATER.org

Re-cap of the June 7th, 2006 Special Board Meeting

In the June 7th, 2006 Special Board meeting, the Goleta Water District Board members, after hearing overwhelming evidence of the great detriment to the farmers, voted to eliminate the 4% commodity raise to farmers and then slightly increase the commodity rate to urban and recreational users keeping the proposed budget neutral. However upon the motion of Director Rogers, which was seconded by Director Cunningham, the Board voted to keep the 4% raise to farmers on their fixed monthly meter charge (Rogers and Cunningham are up for their seats to be voted upon in November).

Although the Goleta Water District Board Members continue to abandon rate increase proposals and change their plans in response to the protests of the agricultural and urban community, many farmers and community members remain in a highly frustrated state. The constant vigilance and public outcry that is necessary to protect ag interests is eroding the trust of the community for the GWD. Isn't the water district's job to provide affordable water? Aren't they in good financial standing? Hasn't the public over and over again expressed its desire to protect local agriculture, and in protecting ag, our open space? The GWD Board members seem upset by the 'ingratitude' they are experiencing from farmers, but when the farmers have to show up again and again to guard themselves from the disasterous consequences of GWD proposals, they don't feel inclined to be thankful for the concessions of the GWD.