JZ Knight
Photo Copyright 2011 JZ Knight.
Used with permission.

Read more from the WA. Supreme Court opinion: Knight v. City of Yelm, No. 84831-9.

In a 7-2 decision by Justice Charles Wiggins, the WA. Supreme Court opinion released today held that JZ Knight had established that the land use decision by the hearing examiner for the City of Yelm IS likely to prejudice her water rights and the Thurston County Superior Court case she won satisfies the statutory standing requirement.

“Tacoma News Tribune staff writer Sean Robinson wrote an in-depth report in June, 2011 titled JZ Knights bid to halt development heard by states Supreme Court.
Note: The print edition was titled JZ Knight proves to be a warrior vs. development

Robinson stated:
Neighbors often groan about the new housing developments next door. Typically, thats all they do but JZ Knight, 65, is no ordinary neighbor. Shes started an argument that could change the rules of local land-use planning throughout the state, and shes determined to finish it.

If Knight prevails, the legal precedent could echo across the state, especially in rural communities where water is scarce. Owners of senior water rights could halt development in its tracks.
Read more

Knight has previously stated to halt development was not her intent. Knights case was about the City of Yelms attempt to approve five proposed new developments without adequate proof of a sufficient water supply.

JZ Knight presented evidence at five public hearings showing that the City of Yelms water rights are not adequate to serve five proposed Yelm subdivisions.
Read more from Knight’s Nov., 2008 Public Notice to Residents, Taxpayers and City of Yelm Water System Customers.

Read more from KOMO-TV News 4 in Seattle.