PORT TOWNSEND — Suggestions that the city could generate revenue for its ailing budget by selling water to Jefferson County Public Utility District No. 1 are contrary to state law, according to City Manager David Timmons.

A letter dated Tuesday from Timmons to Jim Parker, utility district manager, also says the city isn’t in a position to discuss the merits of the idea right now because it trying finalize permits with the U.S. Forest Service to continue obtaining water from the Big and Little Quilcene rivers.

Timmons’ letter responds to an Aug. 5 letter from Parker to Mayor Catharine Robinson and comments made by Jefferson County commissioners on Monday.

Parker’s letter acknowledges the city’s permitting process, but offers selling water to the utility district as an option.

“I understand the delicacy of their situation,” Parker said of the city’s negotiations about water withdrawal with the Forest Service.

“Right now by simply allowing us (the utility district) to use the full amount defined in our current contract, the City could increase your revenue from us four-fold,” Parker wrote.