I am writing in response to the recent front-page article regarding the problem here at Cullaby Lake (“Costly sewage project looms for Cullaby Lake residents,” The Daily Astorian, Dec. 2). We desperately need help with the ongoing battle between the Shoreline Sanitary District and the homeowners at Cullaby Lake.

Recently we received a letter threatening us with a lien on our house. We are not able to pay the $65 sewage fee per month that they are demanding. This ruling even applies to vacant homes.

I religiously send the $50. That has been budget from our Social Security check. Each month they tack on a “late fee,” and now say we owe more than $600. The city of Warrenton charges $43.06 per month for sewer. The fact is that we can control our usage and fees for electric, heat, phone, television, water, garbage etc., but cannot on our sewer usage.

There are families on our street who have seven or eight people in their home. My husband and I are here alone. Just two. Obviously those neighbors use the sewer much more for laundry, dishwasher, toilets, showers, etc. Why can’t the sewage rate be tied to the water usage? That certainly would be fairer and controllable.

We understand that the Department of Environmental Quality has said that our system is currently meeting their requirements. Then why does this nightmare continue? Furthermore, nearby Glenwood Village is still on septic. Many others in the area are, as well. How about them hooking up? Let’s spread the cost of the $2 million.

I did contact state Sen. Betsy Johnson and Clatsop County Commissioner Patricia Roberts. They were both kind enough to respond. However, they did not offer much hope.

We are senior citizens on a very limited budget. What can you do to assist us?

BERNADINE and GARY THOMAS

Warrenton