The Gas War Comes to Walla Walla
A visiting developer refuses to post a $1,000 bond to secure a municipal franchise, sparking a showdown over public infrastructure and utility monopolies.
The story, cleaned up
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Dr. C. B. Darrin, a member of the American Tar company of Fairhaven and Whatcom, arrived in Walla Walla to lobby for a gas franchise. The company aims to establish a rival gas plant to break the current monopoly. An ordinance for the franchise, previously tabled by the city council, was recently revived at the request of Councilman McKean. However, the council is demanding a $1,000 forfeit bond to ensure the plant is actually constructed if the franchise is granted. Dr. Darrin stated that his company would under no circumstances post a guarantee, arguing they are ready to build provided they receive a clean franchise. The company promises to keep illuminating gas prices at $1.50 per thousand.
“Under no circumstances would this company consent to posting any sum in return for a franchise as a guarantee of good faith.”
This 1903 struggle over utility franchises highlights the era's transition toward regulated monopolies. Today's debates over community-owned broadband or municipal power often echo this exact tension between wanting competition and fearing empty corporate promises.
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