The initial steps toward creating a local entity that could ultimately take over water supplies for Oakhurst and some other mountain-foothill sites has been taken by a citizens group. Oakhurst Citizens for Better Water, created last summer in response to growing criticism of Hillview Water Company, the privately-owned provider, is asking the county Board of Supervisors to help obtain an appraisal of the value of Hillview, and estimates of what it would cost to improve the existing system. The request comes in a letter to the board from Phil Atkisson, OCBW vice chair for district formation. Supervisors will discuss the issue at the board s June 6 meeting. Progress and strategy were reviewed by Mr. Atkisson and other OCBW leaders during a meeting in Oakhurst on Thursday morning.
Optimism seems to be the keynote.
Last week s tour was a highlight of the May meeting of the state Board of Forestry, in joint session with the state Fish and Game Commission. The tour will focus on the challenges and solutions in integrating range, wildlife, air and water quality, and oak woodland issues, with effective fire hazard reduction, Chief Gregory said at the start. Board members were bussed to various locations in Eastern Madera and Southern Mariposa counties and saw examples of fire-safe communities and fuel reduction projects. Dramatic look at tragedy of drinking, driving A special program at Yosemite High School is proving that a picture is worth a thousand words especially to teen-agers. The school, in cooperation with the state Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control, Madera County Health Department, Sierra Ambulance Service, and several other local emergency services agencies, presented a two-day program Monday and Tuesday.