Cash Over Community: Ellsworth Sues and Supporters Get Paid

By: UCD Project
 
PAYSON, Ariz. - Feb. 3, 2025 - PRLog -- Strawberry, AZ – In a shocking turn of events, several vocal supporters of Chairperson Ellsworth's unelected, self-appointed PSWID Board have become the few financial beneficiaries of the Water District's condemnation actions. While Ellsworth has pursued eminent domain to condemn 46 parcels, these individuals accepted monetary compensation in exchange for relinquishing their property rights—despite previously claiming to oppose financial motives in the project's opposition.

Initially, these supporters refused PSWID's request to relinquish their property rights for free. However, when the district offered $500 per waiver, they quickly accepted. In a January 9, 2025, letter, Ellsworth described these payments as generous, despite a district-led appraisal concluding no compensation was necessary. Additionally, Ellsworth asserted that the planned water farm facility, set to be constructed within an established residential subdivision, would have no impact on property values or residents' quality of life. Those who wish to challenge Ellsworth's conclusions must hire legal representation at their own expense.

Financial Gain and Insider Information

One of the most vocal supporters, Phyllis Wall, has frequently accused project opponents of seeking personal profit. Yet, reports indicate that Wall herself received at least $1,000 in compensation for signing away her property rights. In a now-deleted social media post, she admitted using the money for special Christmas gifts, acknowledging that this windfall was a direct result of neighbors' legal challenges against PSWID's illegal construction and land-use decisions.

Wall's post also revealed she knew about the payment offer before all other residents, raising concerns about insider information being selectively shared. Despite benefiting financially, she continued to question opponents' motivations, urging a neighbor to pledge against seeking legal compensation if elected to office.

Meanwhile, Wall's partner, Greg Perkins, has actively sought to suppress opposition. Neighbors report he has confronted them during walks, attempting to persuade them to drop objections to the water farm facility. In a social media post, he warned, "Vote for water or get the results of no well."

Insider Dealings and Selective Compensation

Wall and Perkins maintain close ties with former PSWID board member Richard James, who, despite relocating to Minnesota, continues to influence local discussions. His wife, Kay James' social media activity has raised further concerns, as she has shared insider construction updates on social media despite no longer residing in the community. Speculation also surrounds their involvement in the sale of Lot 26, the site of the proposed water farm facility, suggesting possible coordination between PSWID and the former landowner.

Another vocal supporter, Roger Erickson, has defended the project while dismissing concerns from affected homeowners, advocating compensation only for full-time residents like himself. Similarly, Jim Daughtery, another prominent advocate, recently acknowledged his legal vulnerabilities regarding his own compliance with subdivision CCRs, despite previously dismissing his neighbors' valid legal concerns over the new water farm facility's location.

A Dangerous Precedent

With 75% of Strawberry View Subdivision composed of part-time residents, most homes use minimal water throughout the year. Yet, a small group of PSWID supporters profited from PSWID's actions while continuing to vilify opponents as financially motivated. This hypocrisy underscores the troubling precedent set by Ellsworth's willingness to use eminent domain effectively supporting the use of eminent domain against other neighborhoods in Strawberry and Pine.
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Source:UCD Project
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Tags:Rural Water Infrastructure
Industry:Government
Location:Payson - Arizona - United States
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Page Updated Last on: Feb 04, 2025
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