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Council reviews Jordan Valley–aligned drought response plan; staff to place item on next consent agenda
Summary
Staff presented a drought response plan aligned with Jordan Valley Water Conservancy District guidance that sets graduated conservation levels (0–4). Council directed staff to place the plan on the next consent agenda for adoption and discussed outreach and enforcement approaches.
City staff presented Midvale’s draft Drought Response Action Plan — a Jordan Valley Water Conservancy District–aligned framework that defines five drought levels (0–4) and associated voluntary and mandatory conservation measures. The council agreed to place the plan on the next regular meeting consent agenda for adoption.
Bridal (city staff) explained the plan’s purpose: create consistent, regional messaging and a clearly staged response to varying drought severity. Level 0 represents normal conditions with proactive conservation, including smart-meter leak detection and year‑round conservation messaging. Level 1 is voluntary conservation and public outreach. Level 2 adds increased outreach and light enforcement such as water patrols and limits on noncertified car washing. Level 3 would institute mandatory measures, including strict watering schedules and tailored reductions for large users; council-approval would be required for rate changes. Level 4 is critical shortage response where irrigation for nonessential turf would be curtailed and parks and key vegetation prioritized for survival, potentially accompanied by a temporary drought surcharge.
Bridal said Jordan Valley and member agencies jointly determine drought level and that Midvale representatives participate in that decision; currently the region is at Level 0. Councilmembers discussed enforcement fairness — for example, commercial turf irrigators versus residential lawns — and suggested prioritizing the city’s most-used parks. Councilmembers asked staff to consider grant and rebate options (Jordan Valley programs were discussed) for HOAs and to ensure consistent messaging across neighboring jurisdictions.
Council direction to staff was to move the draft plan forward for formal adoption at the next meeting (consent agenda) and to continue coordination with Jordan Valley for regional consistency. Staff will also draft a communication plan for residents, HOAs and businesses covering enforcement, available rebates and conservation tips.
