Something Seems Fishy at Santiago Pits Project

Re “Fear of Fish Odor Could Halt O.C. Water Project,” April 3:

I received a letter in the mail regarding the draining of the Santiago Pits in Orange. Shortly thereafter I read the article in the Los Angeles Times, “Fear of Fish Odor Could Halt O.C. Water Project,” and I was astounded by what seemed to be taking shape here.

I live a few miles from what will be the Santiago Pits project and I can attest that any odor from the pits will be intolerable and unacceptable. If the project continues, this will a long, hot, smelly summer. I am glad to know that Denis Bilodeau, a board member of the Orange County Water District, is looking out for his region. Without Bilodeau’s help I don’t think the water board would be doing what is right for the residents of Orange and Villa Park.

Thank you for uncovering the fishy project and thank you to Denis Bilodeau for speaking out and representing the residents.

Mary McHugh

Orange

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I have to question the competency of the members of the Orange County Water District board. My house is a block and a half from the Santiago Pits, and I am concerned about the effects of this project on me and my kids. Only Denis Bilodeau seems to care about what will happen to my neighborhood. The water board made this decision without getting the facts, and I don’t think it is right to burden my family with the stench of dead fish for up to eight months.

I support Bilodeau’s attempt to halt this project until more information becomes available.

Anthony Soza

Orange

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There is something fishy going on at the Orange County Water District. The staff was more concerned about getting a pumping station installed than subjecting the residents of Orange and Villa Park to the smell of rotting fish for eight months. It’s a good thing board member Denis Bilodeau, who represents Orange and Villa Park, got a whiff of what the staff had planned and put a stop to it. I hope the district staff understand Bilodeau’s message that the effects on residents must be considered.

Brian Lochrie

Orange

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I am writing in support of Denis Bilodeau’s fight to keep my neighborhood odor-free. I read your article and was shocked at what was being proposed. That the Orange County Water District board had no idea how long the stench could be in the air is absurd. I think the planning should be stopped until they have a better idea of what they are doing.

Janet Butler

Orange

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Last week I received a letter regarding the Santiago Pits pumping project and its effect on my neighborhood. Then I get a completely different story from your article. I am outraged and I cannot believe what is being proposed. I am trying to sell my house, and with the housing market the way it is, I have had a hard time.

The project should be halted. It sounds to me like these people have no idea what they are doing. One person says it will stink to high heaven for two weeks; another person says it could be eight months. This whole thing sounds fishy to me. I support Denis Bilodeau’s efforts.

Debra Roberts

Orange