Flushing Restrictions Proposed to Bring End to Drought
I know. You're probably thinking, "With all the rain and snow over the last few years... isn't the drought over yet?" The answer to that question is, not exactly. From a weather standpoint, the conditions that lead to the drought are over. We've seen ample snow-pack and plenty of rain in the fall and spring. Despite the weather being on our side, we are STILL in a drought from a geologial standpoint. We simply haven't had enough wet weather to make up for all the years of dry conditions. The aquifers simply don't yet have enough water meet future needs.
The only way to try to reverse the cycle and bring a true end to the drought is to reduce household water use.
The average household uses 350 gallons of water per day. The toilet, uses about 100 all by itself. (Around 30%)
Officials are hoping to cut this number down one of two ways.
1. Homes with toilets that consume more than 1 gallon per flush would be required to purchase more efficient toilets that use under 1 gallon per use. (Tax breaks will be considered for those that use even less)
2. Residents who choose to retain noncompliant toilets can choose to either pay a $20 monthly fee or agree to a flushing schedule.
The flushing schedule would coincide with your scheduled irrigation days.
Even-numbered addresses may flush every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.
Odd-numbered addresses may flush every Wednesday, Friday, Sunday.
Before 10 a.m. and after 5 p.m.
Business would be exempt from the restrictions but might be offered discounts on city utilities if they purchase and install water efficient toilets.
On a side note: Monday and Sunday are being considered for a swap as one official points out that the "need for flushing probably increases on Sunday during large family dinners."
More From 95.7 KEZJ
