Home / Environment / California HOA Water War: Lakes Dry, Fish Die
California HOA Water War: Lakes Dry, Fish Die
29 Jun
Summary
- Homeowners dispute water system control and costs.
- Falling lake levels and dead fish reported in community.
- Lawsuit alleges civil theft, fraud, and mismanagement.
In Chowchilla, California, homeowners in Greenhills Estates are embroiled in a significant legal battle against the Water Resources Council (WRC) and Pheasant Run Golf Club. The conflict centers on the 2021 agreement governing the community's shared water infrastructure, including wells, pumps, and lakes. Greenhills Estates alleges it is unfairly burdened with 66.77% of system costs, while the golf course pays only 25.56%.
The homeowners association has filed a lawsuit accusing the WRC and others of civil theft, fraud, fiduciary breaches, and mismanagement. Residents report concerning issues such as receding lake levels, foul odors, dead fish, and fears of ecological damage. The HOA attorney stated that residents should not be charged for golf course irrigation or "phantom rights."
The WRC denies these claims, asserting that Greenhills has failed to meet its responsibilities and owes over $110,000 in unpaid fees for system operation and maintenance. A judge allowed the civil theft and public nuisance claims to proceed, with the next court date scheduled for August 10. The case is expected to continue for at least another year, with trials potentially extending into July and August 2027.
