Bartell Answers Willetts
Daily Review, Aug. 31, 1950
Full Text:
"No plans have ever been proposed to bring water to Russell City."
"It is very evident that a misunderstanding exists relative to the water situation at Russell City."
"There is no legal authority to bring water to any community at county expense."
Quoted above are three statements addressed Wednesday by Harry Bartell, chairman of the county board of supervisors, in answer to questions posed on the current Russell City water plight by Paul G. Willetts, chairman of the Eden council for Civic Unity.
Bartell explained that Willetts' original letter of June 24 was not answered because "it is noted that the copy of the letter forwarded is not signed. The board of supervisor's does not give consideration to unsigned letters, but, in view of the fact your letter of transmittal is signed, authorizes the board to officially answer."
The three Queries introduced by Willetts' and the answers submitted by Bartell are as follows:
1. What authorities have jurisdiction for issuing building permits in Russell City?
"Russell City is located in the unincorporated area of Alaemda [sic] county and building permits are ssued by the county building inspector, Mr. Marcus S. Carlson, whose office is located in Hayward at 206 Castro street."
2. Is there a reason for the refusal of such building permits in Russell City at this time?
"Without specific reference to the causes to which you refer, an answer cannot be given. I am sure Mr. Marcus S. Carlson will give you the reasons and if you are not satisfied with the reasons given and will refer to the board of supervisors specific cases, the matter will be further investigated by the board of supervisors."
3. Is it possible to say when the new water main to Russell City will be completed?
"No plans have ever... (as quoted above). The City of Hayward agreed to install a 12-inch line or two six-inch lines to make available to the people in the vicinity of the water lines the opportunity to connect with the lines at the expense of the water users.
"In consideration of the City of Hayward installing the 12 inch line instead of a proposed six-inch line, the board of supervisors agreed to make available to the City of Hayward the sum of $50,000 for road purposes. The City of Hayward has collected the $50,000 from the County of Alameda."
Bartell concluded his letter by stating, "I trust this letter answers your questions satisfactorily and if not please let us hear from you further."
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