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Commission's water committee debates 'water steward' role amid public concern over cost and authority
Summary
A committee of the Clallam County Charter Review Commission discussed proposals for a paid "water steward" or similar county position to centralize water data collection and coordination; supporters say the county lacks sufficient data, while opponents fear regulatory overreach and unfunded new positions.
Clallam County's Charter Review Commission water committee presented a proposal on May 6 to create a paid county role (variously described in discussion as a "water steward," "chief water scientist," or "water resources information officer") to collect, analyze and share water data across county jurisdictions. Supporters said the county lacks centralized, current water information needed for planning; opponents raised concerns about cost, scope and possible regulatory consequences.
"This is about data. It's not about rules," said a committee chair during the panel's summary of its work. The committee described the position as intended to gather and synthesize scientific and administrative information so local agencies, utilities and residents can make informed decisions.
Public speakers at the meeting voiced strong…
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