SOUTH WHIDBEY RECORD: Tiny House group bemoans big connection fees

South Whidbey Record
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Tiny Houses in the Name of Christ is petitioning the city council in asking for a refund of a portion of the $80,500 they paid in permit fees and water/sewer connection fees for nine tiny homes on a piece of property within the Langley city limits. The group paid the bill, but now they have little money left over for construction.

The Langley city councilmembers were largely sympathetic. Councilmember Christy Korrow said “It’s ridiculous to think of building these tiny houses and then paying this kind of money in connection fees.” Councilmember Thomas Gill commented that the fees seemed “outrageous.” He added “It’s downright criminal to do it to this degree. I think this is a drastic overcharging.”

Mayor Scott Chaplin was sceptical that the tiny homes would remain permanently affordable and Councilmember Dominique Emerson agreed saying “the city should also be mindful about avoiding a gift of public funds.” Councilmember Thomas Gill suggested asking the city attorney’s opinion and several state agencies about the issue. The council agreed this was a good idea.

For more details about this issue, see the story by Kira Erickson in the South Whidbey Record

On the Ballot on November 2 – Langley City Council:

  • Position 1 – Kay Kenneweg vs Harolynne Bobis –Incumbent Christy Korrow not running
  • Position 2 – Rhonda Salerno running unopposed – Incumbent Dominique Emerson not running
  • Position 5 – Tony Gill vs Gail Fleming – Incumbent Peter Morton not running

  • October 22, 2021