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Council launches discussion on long-term water conservation planning; staff to seek OSU assistance and schedule work sessions
Summary
Councilmembers opened a discussion on water-smart landscaping and conservation planning, agreed to pursue expertise from Oklahoma State University, and asked staff to bring a public-engagement plan and work-session schedule.
The Guymon City Council on July 8 opened a policy discussion about citywide water conservation and planning to ensure long-term water availability.
The mayor and councilmembers said water supply concerns are long-term and that the city should begin planning now — including public engagement, potential ordinances, incentives for water-wise landscaping and reviewing irrigation practices. A councilmember reported contacting Oklahoma State University and said an OSU specialist (Dr. Wagner, referenced by staff) had agreed to assist with initial outreach or presentations.
Councilmembers recommended work sessions with staff, public meetings, and outreach to citizens to build consensus on water-saving measures and possible changes to development and landscaping standards. Staff said recent rains have helped this summer, but that drilling and building new wells is expensive and the city should use conservation to extend water-system life.
Council asked staff to return with an initial plan and to place a follow-up item on the next meeting agenda to start the engagement process with OSU and the community.
