Letter: Foothills water rate increase

If it were not for the mountains and foothills surrounding the Tucson region, the Tucson basin aquifer would not be as healthy. This is because of greater precipitation in higher elevations, as well as the land expanse runoff feeding the aquifer. Larger lot areas in the foothills are not necessarily by owner choice, but topography and zoning issues. Water runs downhill, and arroyos and pathways are needed for that to happen, sometimes increasing lot sizes. Vegetation needs some irrigation. We do not see “lush turf or tropical gardens” in our area. More property requires more water. The City has already lost in court their last water rate increase to the foothills. Since foothills residents have no representation with the City, we have to hope for a fair process. Not one based on income, but one based on being treated fairly. Bank robbers robbed banks because that’s where the money was, and because they could. Similar to the Boston Tea Party.