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Code of the West
The Code of the West was first chronicled by the famous western writer Zane Grey. The men and women who came to this part of the country during the westward expansion of the United States were bound by an unwritten code of conduct. The values of integrity and self-reliance guided their decisions, actions, and interactions. In keeping with that same spirit, we offer this information to help citizens of Grant County who wish to follow in the footsteps of those rugged individualists and live outside the metropolitan area.
The general wording of this document is based on a work by John Clarke, Commissioner of Larimer County, Colorado.
Table of Contents
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Introduction
Living in the country is very different from living in a metropolitan area. County governments are not always able to provide the same level of service in undeveloped, rural, and remote areas as they do inside urban or developed areas adjacent to the city
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County History
One of the youngest Washington counties, Grant County was named after Ulysses S. Grant, Civil War general and eighteenth President of the United States. The county was established in February 1909 by an act of the state legislature and signed by Lieutenant Governor M.E. Hay, acting on behalf of Governor Samuel G. Cosgrove, who was ill.
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Access
Access to the rural property is not always available, and when it is available, it is not always smooth or without delay.
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Utility Services
Water, sewer, electrical, telephone, and other services may be unavailable, may not operate at urban standards, and repairs may take longer than in cities. Monthly surcharges may be added to cover the costs of extending municipal services to rural areas.
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The Property
There are many issues that can affect your property. It is important to research these issues before purchasing land.
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Mother Nature
Residents of the county usually experience more problems when the elements and earth turn unfriendly. Here are some thoughts for you to consider.
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Agriculture
Grant County is largely an agricultural area. Much of the rural land is actively used for growing crops, feeding livestock, and providing mineral resources. Owning rural land means knowing how to care for it.
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Conclusion
Even though rural property owners pay property taxes to the County, the amount of tax collected does not nearly cover the cost of the services provided to rural residents. In general, those living in the country should not expect the same level of services as those living in urban areas.