Urgent Deal Deadline Approaches in Blue Lake Water Tank Dispute

UPDATE: The tense negotiations over Blue Lake’s water tank have reached a critical juncture as Erin McClure, the trustee of the tank’s property, demands urgent action from the Blue Lake City Council. With a looming deadline of December 1, 2025 for the city’s final offer, both parties are under immense pressure to finalize an agreement.

The city has publicly disclosed its last, best offer, which includes a $55,000 lump-sum payment, an annual payment of $6,000 with a 3.2% annual increase, and access improvements for the aging tank. The negotiations have stretched over two and a half years, and the city indicates that without McClure’s acceptance, it will assume the offer is rejected.

In a heated public comment at a recent council meeting, McClure expressed her frustration, stating, “I’m tired of not being paid for the lease.” Her social media posts have amplified the urgency of the situation, showing leaking water from the tank into Powers Creek and accusing the city of negotiating in bad faith.

The historical context of this dispute is significant. McClure’s family has ties to the land going back to 1911, when her great-great-grandmother established the original lease. The existing agreement, which pays only $100 annually, is widely considered outdated, with current estimates suggesting it should be worth much more. McClure insists on a “fair market value lease” for the property, highlighting the financial burden of ongoing legal fees during this lengthy process.

Despite the city’s claims that McClure’s shifting positions have prolonged negotiations, she contends that the city has not responded adequately to her inquiries. Tensions escalated last year when McClure found city technicians on her property without permission, leading her to restrict access to the tank. This incident, combined with ongoing social media campaigns, has heightened public attention on the negotiations.

As the deadline approaches, both McClure and the city need to reassess their positions. The urgency is palpable, with potential consequences that could affect local water access and community relations. Blue Lake is currently facing budgetary challenges, making the resolution of this dispute even more critical.

What happens next is uncertain. McClure plans to review the city’s final offer with her legal representative, who is currently unavailable. As the clock ticks down to December 1, the community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that serves both parties’ interests.

Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to stay informed and engaged as this developing situation unfolds. The implications of the deal extend beyond just a lease; they touch on the very foundation of Blue Lake’s water system and community trust.