After observing mistrust at the April 15^th East Wenatchee Water District meeting, I’m recommending a candidate for commissioner in the August 18 election between commissioner John Sterk and G. Brian Egan. I emailed questions and interviewed them. Egan submitted written responses and his resume. Below are quotes that seem to represent their positions and why my recommendation is for Egan.

    EWWD problems.  Sterk: “This may sound a little bit presumptuous, but I don’t know that we have any key problems, … not planning, not money, not management, not staff. Water quality is excellent. It’s a very well run utility.”
    Egan: “Commissioners trusting each other, maintaining and/or upgrading existing water mains, and working with other agencies in complying with growth management policies.”

    Qualifications: Egan: “Commissioner for seven years on the Lake Stevens Sewer District and School District Maintenance and Operations Director for ten years. Working with developers to mitigate project impacts and the public to resolve disputes.”

    Sterk: “Commissioner for two years, 30-year resident. Currently President. I have perfect attendance. Member of both the Washington Association of Sewer and Water Districts (WASWD) and regional water boards. I’m pastor at Bethel Baptist, East Wenatchee. I started it 28 years ago.”

    Election Issues Sterk: “Continuing the same quantity and quality of water.” Regarding the Batterman Road annexation beyond the urban growth boundary that was stopped by a City of East Wenatchee lawsuit, but which WASWD appealed with EWWD approval, Sterk said, “That is a dead issue; there is no possibility of development; EWWD might have a minor expenditure.” [Note: EWWD could pay up to $2,500 according to May 6, 2009 minutes.] 

    Egan: “The Commissioners lack of accountability to the ratepayer, including questionable expenditures. Commissioners should check for understanding instead of voting agenda items they do not understand. My services will be unpaid.” [State law states that commissioners receive a per diem, and benefits similar to EWWD employees, which commissioners may refuse.] 

    Mistrust between Commissioners and Citizens. Egan: “In 2007 [Commissioner] McCourt openly campaigned for Sterk [commissioner #2] while campaigning against Terry Barnes [commissioner #3]. How can McCourt and Barnes possibly trust each other? Instead of scolding [a citizen], I would say, Thank you for bringing that to our attention. We’ll take care of it.”

    Sterk: [Sterk objected to my column on mistrust after attending one meeting]: “Most of the times we’re unanimous, good harmony. I bring the agenda to the table. As President I don’t ask questions from visitors. They can submit it in advance, and I’ll take a look at it.”

    Other comments? Sterk: “When it comes to vouchers and expenditures, I ask questions. I’m a stickler for details. We have no hidden agenda. We appreciate visitors, keeps us on our toes.”

    Egan: “I want to develop a set of operating principles for the Board, allowing public comment and questions, and regarding growth management.” 

    Recommendation. Sterk is right, it’s a well-run utility. He serves faithfully, and earns his modest compensation. State auditors over the past five years found no questionable expenditures.

    However, Egan is far more qualified on water management and commissioner responsibilities.  He’d improve both cooperation among commissioners and accountability to ratepayers. I recommend Egan.