Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Water Management topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Council refers proposed water‑use restrictions ordinance to committee to meet state compliance deadline
Summary
A proposed amendment to Salem’s Chapter 46, Section 38 (water management plan and use restrictions) was referred to the Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs Committee co‑posted with the Committee of the Whole for discussion and compliance with state timelines.
The Salem City Council on March 27 voted to refer an ordinance amendment relating to Chapter 46, Section 38 (water management plan and use restrictions) to the Committee on Ordinances, Licenses and Legal Affairs, co‑posted with the Committee of the Whole.
Councilors said the draft ordinance sets definitions for essential and nonessential outdoor water use during drought conditions, and would give enforcement authority to the city engineer, including the ability to enforce violations and in some circumstances shut off water service. Councilor Hepworth (identified in the record as bringing the referral) said the item should be discussed in committee despite a looming early‑April deadline for several communities to act.
Councilor Cielo supported establishing tiered restrictions during drought and urged an education campaign, while noting Salem’s reservoir system and regional water sources. The referral moves the draft into committee for public input and to ensure the city meets any state compliance requirements.
No ordinance was enacted at the meeting; committee review was scheduled as a next step.
