Controversial well permit sparks legal battle and community concerns

In a recent government meeting, Patrick Owen from the Department of Environmental Health addressed ongoing concerns regarding a well construction permit issued in 1981. Owen clarified that while a permit was granted, the final construction was never officially approved, a common oversight at the time. Following complaints in 2017, the department investigated and discovered pilot holes at the site, leading to a series of actions including the approval of a well destruction permit and subsequent identification of the original well.

The well, drilled nearly 500 feet deep, was confirmed to be operational after the original driller provided necessary documentation. In January 2022, the Environmental Health Department approved the well's construction, affirming that it met all regulatory requirements. Owen also noted that the septic system associated with the property was permitted for a three-bedroom residence, adhering to existing policies.

The discussion also touched on the legal complexities surrounding the well. An injunction had previously halted the permitting process due to ongoing litigation, but a court ruling favored the county, allowing the project to proceed. However, an appeal is pending, which could potentially affect the well's status. The commission was informed that the current application allows for either the existing well or a new well to be permitted, depending on the outcome of the appeal.

Owen emphasized that the well's approval should not delay the overall project, and he reassured the commission that the necessary water quality tests had returned clean results, ensuring no contamination from the aquifer. The meeting concluded with a commitment to monitor the situation closely as legal proceedings continue.