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its water needs. Veneta had investigated its options and found that other options had substantial drawbacks. He suggested a prosperous Veneta benefited the greater region. Tom Slocum, 1950 Graham Drive, believed that Veneta was the first of many communities that would seek water from Eugene. He suggested that in solving its own problem, Veneta could help Eugene to solve its problem of securing a third water right. He anticipated that there would be considerable competition for future rights, and if EWEB did not use enough of the rights assigned to it, there was a chance an entity other than EWEB would be making decisions about who had access to the water in the future. Ron Farmer, no address given, supported the Veneta water contract. He said that the courts would make the final decision about who had authority over the sale, and that would provide clarity about the process to follow as the two communities went forward and worked together for the success of their citizens. He believed Eugene citizens supported a cooperative approach to the issue. Gary Wildish, no address given, termed the contract a great opportunity for Eugene to perfect its water rights. Speaking to the topic of communities, he pointed out that Oregon communities had limited resources and were working together to do things in more cost - effective ways. Regional solutions were being contemplated throughout the state. He believed that cooperation with Veneta was consistent with what Eugene was already doing. He termed the contract an opportunity for a "win -win" solution. Tabitha Ech, 24865 Strike Street, Veneta, owner of Our Daily Bread Restaurant in Veneta, said she bought her business in 2006 and economic conditions had worsened since than. There was not enough water to sustain Veneta, much less grow Veneta into becoming the small community that its residents desired. She said there were also health and safety issues to consider. She hoped more businesses joined her in the future to make Veneta a vibrant community for all to enjoy. Thomas Cotter, 88098 Hester Street, Veneta, an incoming Veneta councilor, spoke in support of the sale of water to Veneta. He said the contract would allow Veneta to grow and contribute to welfare of the area. He pointed out that Oregon law required Veneta to ensure it could provide residents with water, and because of limited ground water resources, the contract could provide that service. Veneta was a responsible and growing community that wanted the same resources afforded to other nearby communi- ties. He asked the council to support the contract. Craig Soderberg, 87965 Sherwood Street, Veneta, supported the proposed water contract. He said EWEB's agreement to provide water to Veneta was an example of how two organizations could work together toward a mutually beneficial solution. He suggested the contract was also an example of being a good neighbor. He said he served on the Veneta Park Board, and water was crucial to Veneta's ability to take care of its current parks, along with helping Veneta to provide more parks and open spaces. He expressed concern that without the contract, Veneta would lack the water needed to fight local fires. He said access to a secure water supply would allow Veneta to be more independent and help give it more opportunities for local employment. Carrie Connelly, 975 Oak Street, Suite 975, Veneta City Attorney, submitted her written testimony speaking to whether the proposal comported with existing Oregon, County, and local land use law. Mayor Piercy closed the public hearing. She thanked those who offered testimony. MINUTES— Eugene City Council December 13, 2010 Page 10 Regular Meeting