Pollution Control Hearings Board Approves Water Right Change in Painted Summer Hills Case

November 16, 2011

In a closely-watched case involving a groundwater permit for community domestic supply, the PCHB affirmed an increase in the number of connections from 12 to 19 homes to enable development of a clustered rural subdivision.

In a split decision, the PCHB ruled that the Douglas County Water Conservancy Board properly allowed a change in the “manner of use” of the water right permit, reversing the Department of Ecology’s denial of the change.  A motion for reconsideration by Ecology was denied on November 16, 2011. Our firm represents the water right holder, Painted Summer Hills, LLC. For more information, contact Sarah Mack at mack@tmw-law.com.

• To view the PCHB summary judgment decision, click here.
• To view the PCHB decision on reconsideration, click here.
• To view Board Member Lynch’s opinion on reconsideration, click here.
• To view Board Member Mix’s opinion on reconsideration, click here.