In a recent city council meeting, officials unanimously approved a series of initiatives aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and promoting water conservation. The council first addressed the architectural services contract for expanding the dispatch center, which was approved for $24,640.

The primary focus of the meeting shifted to a proposal for a central irrigation control system, specifically the Rain Bird IQ 4, aimed at modernizing the city's park irrigation systems. Brock Hill, a representative from the parks department, detailed the extensive research conducted to identify the best irrigation solutions in light of ongoing water restrictions. He emphasized the importance of transitioning to a centralized control system to improve water conservation efforts.

Hill noted that the existing irrigation infrastructure is outdated, with many systems dating back to the 1960s. The proposed system would initially cover ten park locations, representing about 25% of the city's irrigated properties. The anticipated cost for the equipment is approximately $58,610, with potential rebates available from the Weaver Basin Water Conservation District to offset expenses.

Council members expressed support for the initiative, highlighting the need for rain sensors to ensure efficient watering practices, especially given the city's varied precipitation patterns. Hill acknowledged the challenges in estimating potential water savings but referenced other cities that have reported up to 30% reductions in water usage after implementing similar systems.

The council's approval of the Rain Bird IQ 4 system marks a significant step towards modernizing the city's irrigation practices and enhancing water conservation efforts, aligning with broader environmental goals. The installation of the new system is expected to begin within the next few months, with further discussions planned regarding the hiring of contractors for installation.