The Whittier sewer system is back in the news (1, 2) with the problems it’s had from the start. The system was constructed five years ago under the assumption that “they will come.” Ever since, it has served forty customers at a $100,000 annual deficit. If the lines could reach 200 more customers, the system would break even. So, it is proposed that a community of 20 mobile homes be added. The line extensions would cost about $340,000, and the NC Rural Center is willing to pick up 90 percent of the tab. To date, Jackson County government has contributed $750,000, and the Eastern Band of Cherokee has contributed comparable amounts. Jackson County Chair Jack Debnam spoke as if support for the expansion were ridiculous. Commissioner Norm Wooten argued the project would reduce the annual deficit. (The extension will pay for itself in 70 years!)