Clallam County Residents Oppose Conservation District Tax Increase Over Fraud Allegations

The Clallam County Commissioner’s Board Meeting held on September 2, 2025, addressed significant concerns regarding the Clallam County Conservation District and its financial practices. The meeting featured public comments that highlighted allegations of grant fraud and the potential impact of proposed tax increases on local residents.

The first speaker raised serious allegations against the Conservation District, claiming it had engaged in ongoing grant fraud by accepting over $15 million in public funds for pipeline installations on private property without proper easements. The speaker accused the district of attempting to cover up this alleged malfeasance by hiring an attorney to create a memorandum on prescriptive pipeline easements. They expressed concern over environmental damage, impaired aquifer recharge, and the threat to local food and water supplies, urging the board to reject any proposed tax increases that would support these actions.

Following this, Diana Henderson, a Sequim resident, voiced her opposition to any additional financial burdens on property owners, criticizing the district for its plans to dip into community budgets for the next decade. She called for a careful review of the financial implications for constituents and urged the board to vote against the proposed tax measures.

Judy Larson also contributed to the discussion, referencing previous public hearings and submitting additional documentation outlining her concerns regarding the Conservation District's adherence to Washington State law. She emphasized the importance of transparency and consent in the district's operations, noting that many property owners were unaware of the financial assessments and the implications of conservation district elections.

The meeting underscored a growing tension between the Conservation District's funding strategies and the financial strain on local residents. As the board continues to deliberate on these issues, the community remains watchful of the potential outcomes and their implications for Clallam County's future.