Fort Collins Water Efficiency Plan update targets 3% reduction by 2040

The Fort Collins City Council convened on February 25, 2025, for a work session focused on enhancing community engagement and water efficiency strategies. The meeting began with discussions on leadership development within mobile home parks, emphasizing the need for workshops to address technology access issues and improve communication among residents. Council members expressed concerns about the variability in how information is posted in these parks, highlighting the importance of ensuring that residents have access to essential information.

The council acknowledged the challenges faced by residents in mobile home parks, particularly regarding intimidation from management and the need for better community organization. A consensus emerged on the necessity for equitable service levels across different housing types, including mobile home parks, multifamily residences, and single-family homes. The council plans to conduct an assessment to identify enforcement gaps and resource needs across these property types.

Following a brief recess, the meeting transitioned to a presentation by the city's water executive director, Nicole Poncelet Johnson, and her team, who provided an update on the Water Efficiency Plan (WEP). This plan, required by the Colorado Water Conservation Board, aims to guide water use and conservation efforts in Fort Collins. The team shared progress made since the last update and sought feedback on draft goals and strategies.

The proposed goals include a 3% reduction in annual water demand by 2040, which would equate to approximately 22.5 million gallons saved each year. The council discussed the importance of community participation in achieving these goals, emphasizing that all customers should contribute to water conservation efforts. Additionally, the city aims to improve outdoor water efficiency in public landscapes, promoting the use of water-wise and native plants.

The presentation highlighted the significance of community engagement, with over 5,000 interactions conducted to gather input from residents, particularly those from disproportionately impacted communities. The council recognized the need for continued education and outreach to ensure broad participation in water conservation initiatives.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the city's commitment to addressing the needs of mobile home park residents and enhancing water efficiency through community collaboration and strategic planning. The council plans to revisit these topics in future sessions, aiming to finalize the Water Efficiency Plan by summer 2025.