Public notice: Manila faces limited water supply; county asks residents to conserve

A public-service announcement at the Daggett County Commission meeting on May 12 warned that the town of Manila is experiencing a limited water supply because of ongoing issues with 'well number 1.' An unidentified speaker told the commission that officials are asking "all residents to conserve water immediately," including a prohibition on outside watering "This includes lawns, gardens, landscaping, any other nonessential outdoor water use." The announcement said violations could lead to water service being shut off and a $50 call-out fee to reconnect.

The chair and other commissioners discussed how the restriction would affect service accounts such as the cemetery's water connection, with one commissioner noting he had heard questions about whether the county would waive bills. Speakers said they did not expect bills to be waived, with one participant stating, "I'm pretty sure they're not gonna let you skip on the bill." The commission did not adopt additional written policy at the meeting but asked for updates: the unidentified speaker said "updates will follow."

Why this matters: The directive affects residential and nonessential outdoor water uses at a time when local supply is strained. The commission's discussion shows residents may have questions about billing and specific account handling, but no exemptions were approved at the meeting.

Practical follow-up: The announcement left the emergency restriction in effect 'until further notice' and instructed residents to take immediate conservation steps such as shortening showers and running dishwashers only when full. The commission asked staff to provide updates as more information becomes available.