During a recent government meeting, officials discussed the challenges residents face due to high water bills, particularly in light of ongoing water restrictions. One participant highlighted that a $700 water bill can be a significant financial burden for many families, equating it to three car payments. They emphasized that there are no restrictions on applying for assistance, and no known cases of applicants being denied support based on hardship.

The conversation also addressed concerns regarding homeowners' associations (HOAs) sending out notices that may intimidate residents into watering their lawns despite the restrictions. Officials agreed on the necessity of communicating with HOAs to clarify the town's stance on water restrictions and to discourage any punitive measures against residents who are unable to comply due to financial constraints.

Plans were made to draft a letter from the mayor or the board of trustees to inform HOAs about the current water restrictions and the legal implications of fining residents. The town attorney will review the letter before it is distributed, ensuring that it accurately reflects the town's policies and protects residents from undue penalties during this challenging time. Residents were encouraged to report any instances of HOAs imposing fines for non-compliance with watering restrictions, as the town aims to address these issues proactively.