WHATCOM COUNTY, Wash.  (Mike Curtiss)  -- Both opponents and supporters are saying that the new rural growth rules passed by the Whatcom County Council this week may not be the best use for rural lands in the county.

Several properties along the Guide Meridian would no longer be allowed for businesses if the changes are approved by the State Growth Management Hearings Board.

But County Council member Ken Mann says this week's decision was the price of ignoring state law for the past 20 years.



The county has been hit with sanctions from the state, and landowners can't get permits until the county gets back into compliance.

Opponents have vowed to appeal the new rural growth rules.

The County Council may have to start over again if the changes are appealed or rejected by the State Growth Management Hearings Board.