Water districts reach framework to settle lawsuit
The San Juan Water Conservancy District and Pagosa Area Water and Sanitation District have agreed on a framework to resolve their lawsuit regarding the Running Iron Ranch.Summary
The boards of directors for the San Juan Water Conservancy District (SJWCD) and Pagosa Area Water and Sanitation District (PAWSD) have approved a framework for settling their ongoing litigation concerning the Running Iron Ranch. The lawsuit, initiated by PAWSD, centered on the right to sell the ranch, jointly owned by both districts, despite SJWCD’s plans to build a reservoir there. Following a mediation session facilitated by Gene Dackonish, both boards agreed on an outline of terms, though these terms remain confidential and are subject to approval by the Colorado Water Conservation Board. Officials from both districts expressed optimism about reaching a final, mutually beneficial resolution, with further discussions and a public meeting planned once the agreement is finalized. Candace Jones, SJWCD board president, described the framework as a “step forward” in resolving the long-running dispute.
(Source：The Pagosa Springs Sun)