Dear editor:

This is in response to the article in the Powell Tribune on Feb. 26, “Shoshone Irrigation District drew down reserves last year.” To begin with Mr. Stevens wrote this: “I have tried to keep this letter to the editor as brief as possible …”  Well, he failed. This is a continuing rant by a distempered small acreage owner. This vendetta against SID began over his assertion that small acreage landowners were being charged “landowner fee” more per acre than larger actual farm owners. His efforts have now turned to the vilification of the SID board and employees.

On to the annual meeting. An election was held for commissioner for district 5. Current Commissioner Klodette Stroh ran unopposed and was elected by unanimous vote. Eligibility for commissioner requires gross farm income of at least $20,000 and has been a requirement for a long time. Mr. Stevens believes that his so called “Stroh amendment” was instituted by Mrs. Stroh to stifle other candidates. She ran unopposed simply because no one else wanted the job. Mr. Stevens owes Mrs. Stroh a heartfelt apology for his insinuation.  

Mr. Stevens’ headline states that the SID cash reserves are being drawn down, which is absolutely correct and has been declining since the board was rightfully reluctant to raise rates during Covid time, has not kept up with escalating expenses. Mr. Stevens has been apoplectic with his $300 fee, but his note of declining cash reserves will necessarily mean higher rates. Mr. Stevens, just get ready to pay more like the rest of us. No one likes it, but there is economic reality. The meeting went on with audit results being reported with certain gaps in process, but no indications of gross mismanagement or malfeasance as seemingly implied by the contributor. Any audit gaps identified were addressed and plans for mitigation stated. The meeting went on uneventfully and ultimately adjourned. In closing, we are darned glad to have the water for our farm, and applaud the efforts of all those who deliver it.

The real takeaway: Mr. Stevens, buy the water, or don’t buy the water for your little acreage and maybe spend your time growing a stand of pussy willows.

Bob and Linda Graff

Powell