29 Nov Persistence
Hi Friends,
Working together, we have all learned the meaning of the word persistence. And what it means to be persistent for the good of our County – water, land, rural lifestyle, etc. – when fighting big wealthy interests.
Last night we received disappointing news that Judge Allison denied our motion for summary judgement that was argued on November 12, meaning the County Commissioners’ decision to allow MAWC to be grandfathered in has not been overturned…yet.
We disagree with the judge’s decision and we will be evaluating our options with our lawyers, including an appeal to the Montana Supreme Court. As we all deal with this disappointing news, let’s remember the positives: Judge Seeley voided MAWC’s 1.22 billion bottle a year water permit, 70% of Flathead County voters added 530 acres to the Egan Slough Zoning District, and Judge Allison ruled that Initiative 17-01 is legal and that the zoning regulations are enforceable. As we proceed with the pending litigation, including the option of proceeding to the Supreme Court, the big questions now relate to how the Egan Slough Zoning Regulations limit MAWC’s operation. We deserve clarity and finality on this issue, which stems from our County Commissioners having first illegally ignored the petition to add to the Egan Slough Zoning District and then later resisting implementation of the will of the voters as expressed in overwhelming passage of Initiative 17-01. We will continue to pursue through legal means the protection of our agricultural lands, our wells, lakes and fisheries.
Finally, as we approach this Thanksgiving Holiday, we want you to know how thankful we are for your past and continuing support for our efforts to protect our Flathead farms and water!