Council enforces mandatory lawn irrigation ban amid high water demand crisis

The Johnston City Council convened on June 16, 2025, to address pressing issues related to water management and conservation amid rising demand and environmental challenges. The meeting highlighted the city's ongoing struggle with water capacity and the implementation of conservation measures in response to increased nitrate levels in local water sources.

One of the key discussions revolved around the city's water allocation strategy. Council members explored the implications of purchasing capacity from various water sources, including the Grimes expansion and Des Moines Water Works. The council emphasized the importance of understanding how these decisions would affect future water rates and overall system capacity. It was noted that opting out of current expansion projects could lead to higher costs in the future, as communities that do not invest in expansions would still be responsible for a portion of the improvements.

The council also provided an update on the city's water conservation efforts. Following a significant rise in water demand, the Central Iowa Water Works (CIWW) had to enact a series of conservation stages, culminating in a mandatory ban on lawn irrigation. This decision was made after demand reached 108% of the production capacity, prompting the city to suspend non-essential water usage activities. City staff have been proactive in enforcing these measures, including reaching out to high water users and monitoring compliance.

As part of the conservation strategy, the council is focusing on automatic irrigation systems, which can be more easily monitored for compliance. The city has already identified several properties that continued to irrigate despite the ban and is working to ensure adherence to the new regulations.

In conclusion, the Johnston City Council's meeting underscored the critical need for effective water management strategies in the face of rising demand and environmental concerns. The discussions on water allocation and conservation measures reflect the city's commitment to sustainable practices and the importance of community cooperation in addressing water shortages. Moving forward, the council plans to continue monitoring water usage and exploring options for future capacity investments to ensure a reliable water supply for residents.