In a recent government meeting, community members voiced significant concerns regarding the management of critical area ordinances (CAOs) and the permitting process overseen by the Department of Community Development (DCD). Speakers emphasized the need for stronger, clearer regulations to protect local water resources, particularly in light of a 2008 aquifer study indicating over-allocation of groundwater in the Monette Peninsula. They highlighted the lack of recent studies to assess the impact of rapid development on the area's water supply.

Bill Palmer, a local resident, criticized DCD for numerous errors in handling development applications, particularly regarding a property adjacent to Illyhee State Park. He urged county commissioners to consider a moratorium on new permits until these issues are addressed, citing concerns over administrative variances being granted without adequate environmental review.

Mary Ellen Houston, a small business owner, echoed these sentiments, arguing that the current permitting process is excessively burdensome for small businesses. She recounted her own struggles with lengthy approval times and rising fees, which she believes hinder local economic growth. Houston called for a reevaluation of the permitting process, especially given the DCD's current leadership instability.

Beverly Parsons also expressed gratitude for the work done on the CAO but insisted that any updates must be paired with reforms in the DCD's processes. She cautioned that without these changes, the CAO revisions would have limited effectiveness in addressing the community's housing and business challenges.

Overall, the meeting underscored a growing frustration among residents and business owners regarding the DCD's handling of development and environmental regulations, with calls for immediate action to rectify the situation before further permits are issued.