To:

Owyhee County Planning & Zoning Commission & Owyhee County Board of Commissioners

We, the undersigned residents and community members, respectfully request that Owyhee County immediately require a formal hydrological impact study before approving the proposed Birmingham subdivision development near Givens Hot Springs, Idaho (mile 9 off highway 78).

The development lies within an area where domestic wells are the sole water source for residents.

There is serious concern that the addition of multiple new wells and irrigation demands will significantly reduce groundwater availability for existing homes. We believe this development poses a direct threat to our property rights, water access, and public welfare.

We assert the following:

1. Senior Water Rights: Under the State of Idaho's 'Prior Appropriation Doctrine,' existing wells have seniority over any new water usage claims. Our rights must be recognized and protected.

2. County Regulations: Owyhee County zoning and development ordinances require that proposed land uses be evaluated for potential adverse impacts on water resources, including groundwater and aquifers.

3. Constitutional Rights: Under the 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, residents are entitled to due process and equal protection under the law. It is a violation of these rights to approve a development without evaluating its potential to harm existing water users.

4. Environmental Responsibility: No mention of groundwater impact has been made in the county's recent clarification of the review process in a public statement. Proceeding without such a study is irresponsible and violates the rights of existing residents and the sustainability of existing wells. 

Therefore, we respectfully demand:

A formal, independent hydrological impact study be conducted to assess the potential effects of the proposed development on local aquifers and surrounding domestic wells.

No further approvals or permitting be granted until this study is completed and made available for public review.