As for the new round in locating a new water source for the village of Copenhagen, this was a front-burner item with Mayor Michael Shew back in January 2005, when he indicated in a Watertown Daily Times article that "I am going to get funding, one way or the other."

There were infrequent times when the water supply was at an inadequate level, but this was due to extended dry spells with insufficient rain. At a recent meeting Mr. Shew indicated that the water at the treatment plant exhibited excessive impurities. To me, regardless of the less-than-desired appearance of the water, it is safe for human consumption since the yearly water quality report, provided to the residents, indicates that all the safety criteria have been met.

As of now, eight wells have been drilled at three different geographical locations. The majority were drilled at some locations where there is a history of inadequate groundwater. Instead of locating water with a geologist and/or hydrologist, a higher level of success would have been achieved with a shaman or soothsayer.

At this time the only well that could provide the required volume of water is on the property of Kevin and Teresa Terrillion, which is located in the town of Denmark, rather than the village of Copenhagen. Presently the negotiations on the well location are in limbo due to monetary discord. Due to the situation with he says/she says with the Terrillions, Mr. Shew, and Matt Cooper of Bernier & Carr, the land acquisition is at a standstill. A decision was made by Mayor Shew and his board members to use eminent domain in order to acquire the property. A quite sizable amount of money has been spent by the village in surveying the property and the pipeline route. This is like putting the cart before the horse.

I do not believe that the mayor of Copenhagen has the authority to invoke eminent domain on any property that is not within his jurisdiction or domain, anymore than a state can against a state.

John H. Drewes

Copenhagen