RE: 'FPUD appears ready to provide water outside district' [Letter, Village News, 7/10/08]

I too was at the FPUD board meeting McPhee describes. It is true that Ms. Howland “expressed disgust except it was really a disguised contempt for public officials who get all of $40 a meeting to listen to their names be scandalized.”

McPhee says that Chairman Hayden and GM Lewinger disrespectfully laughed during her presentation. This was not correct. I was present for the full meeting and the board and staff were unfailingly courteous to the members of the public even in disagreement. At the end of the meeting most of the people in attendance were won over to the board’s view.

McPhee also attacks the FPUD board for the Orange Grove Power Plant agreement. With the exception of McPhee and one or two others, the rest of the audience was persuaded that the contract with Orange Grove was a very good deal for the FPUD ratepayers. I personally wish we had a lot more contracts just like the Orange Grove considering the revenue, especially if no water is supplied.

I was surprised at the attack on Mr. Lewinger; everyone should have the right to work and own a business. Mr. Lewinger does not spend all of his time at his business. Much of his job entails protecting Fallbrook’s interest at the County Water Authority and the Metropolitan Water District. This important work cannot be done in his office.

I for one applaud the FPUD board and staff and the fine job they do for Fallbrook.

Dr. T.S. “Doc” Zikakis