Wichita City Council approves $150,000 water conservation rebate program for 2025

Wichita City Council has approved a robust 2025 Water Conservation Rebate Program aimed at promoting water-saving measures amid ongoing drought conditions. The program, which will be effective starting February 19, allocates $150,000 to encourage both residential and wholesale customers to adopt water-efficient devices.

City officials highlighted the program's success in previous years, noting that from 2020 to 2023, the rebate funds increased from $100,000 to $125,000, with all funds utilized each year. This initiative has reportedly saved an estimated 500 million gallons of water over time, with individual devices contributing significantly to conservation efforts.

For 2025, the program will focus on both indoor and outdoor water conservation products. New offerings include free showerheads and aerators, which can save up to 5,000 and 7,000 gallons of water per year, respectively. These will be available at City Hall, Neighborhood Resource Centers, and libraries while supplies last. The rebate program will also cover rain barrels, irrigation controllers, and toilet repair kits, with funding split between outdoor and indoor conservation efforts.

Council members expressed their support for the program, emphasizing the importance of water conservation in light of the current Stage 2 drought. They encouraged community participation and highlighted the need for ongoing education about available resources. The council's unanimous vote reflects a commitment to sustainable water use and the economic viability of the community.

The program's details, including eligibility and application processes, can be found at savewichitawater.com.