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County staff to promote state non‑drought water‑conservation guidelines; EPD controls mandatory restrictions
Summary
Water staff recommended outreach on state non‑drought outdoor watering guidelines (allowed hours 4 p.m. to 10 a.m.) and reminded commissioners that only the state EPD can impose mandatory Total Water Plans; staff said the county is prepared to apply for a variance if local conditions warrant.
Philip (water staff) briefed the board on state non‑drought outdoor watering guidelines and proposed county outreach to remind customers of allowable practices and the hours to water: generally allowed for planting and maintenance between 4 p.m. and 10 a.m. Staff proposed distributing flyers, posting on social media and the county website, and asking residents to report visible leaks.
Philip emphasized that mandatory, enforceable restrictions (a Total Water Plan) are imposed or approved by the state EPD; the county cannot unilaterally impose a Total Water Plan without EPD approval. He said the county can apply to the EPD for restrictions if local conditions worsen, but that a Total Water Plan would bring enforcement activities, including potential fines and involvement of law‑enforcement resources.
Philip urged proactive public education and leak reporting to avoid escalations and said staff is prepared to pursue an EPD variance or plan if conditions deteriorate.
