City officials investigate 21% spike in water usage amid historic drought conditions

Water usage in Glendora has surged dramatically, with a staggering 20.65% increase reported in December 2024 compared to the previous year, raising concerns among city officials. The spike comes despite a lack of rainfall, contrasting sharply with the wetter conditions of December 2023. Officials admit they are puzzled by the reasons behind this trend, noting that some residents may not adjust their irrigation systems for seasonal changes, leading to excessive watering even during dry spells.

During the Water Commission Meeting on January 23, 2025, city representatives discussed efforts to identify and address high water usage among residents. They revealed plans to target the top 20 water consumers in various neighborhoods, aiming to educate them about available conservation programs. However, officials acknowledged the challenge of changing habits, as some residents may be financially comfortable with high water bills and resistant to altering their usage.

The meeting highlighted the urgency of the situation, especially in light of California's ongoing drought conditions. January 2025 has been recorded as one of the driest starts to the water year since the 1850s, prompting fears about the city's water supply and its ability to respond to emergencies, such as fires.

Commission members expressed alarm over the 24% swing from a 12% decrease in water usage to a 12% increase, emphasizing the need for a deeper analysis of individual consumption patterns. They suggested that a more automated reporting system could help track changes in water usage over time, allowing the city to better understand and address the factors contributing to increased consumption.

As Glendora grapples with these challenges, officials remain committed to promoting water conservation and ensuring that residents are aware of their usage habits. The city is poised to take further action to mitigate the alarming trend, with hopes of breaking the cycle of excessive consumption in the months to come.