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Mayor Ernest Cragin - 2 - May 6, I9I46 The matter of taking such a decisive step is approached with great reluctance on our part, and only in order to save and protect pre­sent water rights and property. We have great faith in the ability and desire of the people there to rapidly develop and make the most of the great possibilities of the Las Vegas Valley, and believe that they will take immediate measures to secure an additional supply of water. We believe if the property owners in Las Vegas Valley can be organized into a municipal entity, which might be designated as the “Las Vegas Valley Water Improvement District”, it would constitute a political body able to cope with the problem of bringing in supplements! water from Mead Lake. If this -is done soon, perhaps the indicated necessity of cur­tailing further permits to use of ground water may be delayed. In any event, limiting further draft on the underground supply, when it even­tually becomes absolutely necessary, would not then result in retarding the growth of that wonderful region. Steps for the formation of such a water use improvement district mpst of necessity be taken immediately. Similar letters are being sent t<5 A0 C. Grant, Chairman, In­dustrial Development Committee and County Commission Chairman Ira Earl. Should a meeting be held between you to discuss this matter, please feel free to call upon Mr. Hugh Shamberger and myself. Sincerely yours, s/ Alfred Merritt Smith State Engineer