State house committee meets on Water Rights bill SB5239 this morning… Over 2000 property owners in Whatcom County will be directly affected by this bill reducing their property values..and all residents will see property tax increases. The bill tries to take us back before the Hirst decision. Evironmental groups (like League of Women Voters) and Tribes are testifying against this solution. The amendments being presented INCREASE the cost for housing in Rural areas Dramatically. One wonders where the concern for affordable housing in rural areas is. Any Comments!!??