2023-08-14-minutes-public-works-study-session

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system connections for the Ski Tur Valley and Starwater communities, which rely on junior water rights for their water systems. The Ski Tur community established a Group A Water System initially approved for 65 connections, with 40 connections already established. While Starwater originally obtained preliminary approval as a Group A Water System, final approval required a certificate of construction within two (2) years (January 1982) unless an extension was arranged. This extension was never requested and in 1985 the Department of Health noticed the applicant that the system was unapproved. Only six (6) connections were established, and this system is managed as a Group B Water System, overseen by Kittitas County. The Washington State Department of Health shared with Kittitas County staff that they intend to provide notification to the Ski Tur Valley community that due to the unavailability of water in Gold Creek, the junior nature of the surface water right for the Gold Creek system, and the risk of impairment claim, The Department of Health is revising the number of connections from 65 down to the 40 existing connections. DISCUSSION: As part of their due diligence review, the potential buyer of the remaining Starwater lands has reached out to Kittitas Couty staff with questions about water availability. Staff has noticed them about the lack of mitigating water rights and associated challenges associated with development. Initial conversations with the Snoqualmie Pass Utility District indicates that the Utility is open to exploring options to provide water to the Ski Tur Valey and Starwater communities. FISCAL IMPACTS: Water availability impacts Kittitas County revenue, based on adjustment to tax assessment and development potential. ATTACHMENTS: Exhibit 1: Yakama Nation Letter Exhibit 2: Department of Ecology Letter Page 2 of 4 PUBLIC WORKS BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WORK SESSION STAFF REPORT