Letter: Beware city officials' 'murky waters'

In a city brochure called "The Choice Is Clear" the mayor thanks "all the citizens" for helping the city reach their recommendation for Hillcrest water users to convert to surface water. That was an easy recommendation — as everyone wants clean, safe water. The real hard issue is — who pays for this recommendation?

Who are the citizens that Mayor Rory Ramirez and Councilman Kash Gill speak of? Surely, not the 1,800 Hillcrest water users who submitted petitions opposing the city to unfairly charge them for the past mistakes the city made with the Hillcrest Water Company purchase.

The city's budget is in jeopardy and impact fees from developers are practically non-existent. An influx of nearly $20 million of loan money — the amount taxed on water users — would be most welcomed by the city. If the city convinces you to say yes, be aware that this is the start, not the end, of financing the city's faulty vision to enhance future development.

It is time for Hillcrest water customers to become actively involved in defeating Yuba City's unfair and inequitable recommendation. Walton citizens should remember the city's unfulfilled promises made during the 2000 Walton annexation. Let's not make the same mistake again.

If you disagree with the recommendation — say no. By not protesting you are giving a yes response to the city. Don't let politicians, developers and Realtors convince you to pay for something that is not your responsibility. Attend tonight's 7 o'clock meeting at City Hall and express what you think about "the choice is clear."

Donald Kessel
Yuba City