Q: We're getting ready to build our home and have run into a really exasperating roadblock.

A water share came with the lot when we bought it and now the County is requiring that we do all kinds of things to the water system before they will approve our septic design. The neighbors are not happy with us and we really wanted to start off on the right foot. It's also costing us money we hadn't figured into our budget. Is there some other way around this?

A: There are dozens of Class B water systems on Vashon Island. These small systems serve anywhere from 2 to 14 residences and are managed by the property owners themselves. Unfortunately, many of these systems are out of compliance with the County Health Department. There is requirement to test for bacteria and nitrates regularly, for instance. There is also an annual report and fee that must be filed with the County.

In addition, a plan must be submitted to the County when the system is going to be expanded. Connecting your new house to the system is an expansion and so a new plan is needed. There are other systems on the Island currently struggling with additional issues like easements for water lines not properly drawn or water lines in the wrong places.

There is also the need to keep pressure tanks and storage tanks well enclosed in a building that's properly insulated and kept free of vermin. (I can't tell you how many filthy, rat infested well houses I've seen with no current water sampling being done.) There is no way around getting the work done and I'm afraid you will have to pay for it. That is unless there is a written agreement from the other residents served by the system saying that they will contribute to expanding the system. It would behoove you to be pro-active and be sure that your system is in compliance in every way. Not just to follow the rules, but also to be sure you're providing your family with safe water.