FARMERSVILLE - Rex and Sherry Thain have lived in their Collin County home for 19 years. They decided to go "green" 10 years ago and installed a geo-thermal heating and cooling system.
The Thains said it seem like a good idea at the time, and so did the former Farmersville city manager. But, times change and so has the city manager, and that's the problem.
The Thains live in one of the oldest homes in Farmersville near Lake Lavon. They received a letter from the city saying their geo-thermal system is illegally connected to the city's water line. The city said it violates ordinances and the safe drinking water act. The new city manager, who believes the Thain's connection to the city water line is illegal, ordered them to disconnect from it immediately.
"The new city manager said he doesn't know why the original city manager authorized it," said Rex Thain.
With no water coming into their geo-thermal system, the Thains cannot heat their house. So, when the temperature dropped, they moved in with some friends.
"It's just shocking, really," Thain said. "We can't comprehend it."
The family's supporters came to Farmersville City Hall Tuesday night holding signs and wearing T-shirts that read: "Never Give Up."
"To do this in the middle of the winter season to this community is very unfortunate and completely unacceptable," said Gwen Snyder, a family friend.
The Thains could solve the problem by digging 10 wells. But, they said it would cost more than they could afford. They fear if the city doesn't provide some relief, they could wind up losing their house.
"I understand when people steal cable or do things they shouldn't be doing, but everything we did was above board," Thain said.
The city wouldn't comment at Tuesday's meeting because of an insurance claim that has been filed.
E-mail sstoler@wfaa.com
