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Pawnee City adopts Stage 1 voluntary water restrictions as wells show low levels
Summary
Facing low aquifer readings across its wells, the Pawnee City Council voted Oct. 15 to implement Stage 1 voluntary water restrictions and set outreach and monitoring measures while public works pursues repairs and equipment upgrades.
Pawnee City adopted Stage 1 voluntary water restrictions on Oct. 15 after city staff reported falling water levels in multiple wells.
Foreman Spencer Cumley told the council the city’s wells are drawing down: "the top of the screen in Well No. 1 is at 8.5 feet and the pump has been drawing down to 13 feet," leaving the pump about 3 feet below the screen. He said Well No. 2 was faring better, with a water level about 4 feet above its screen, while Well No. 3 had fallen to roughly 3 feet above its screen, lower than its typical range.
The council acted after Council Member Vickie Zelenka urged action, saying the city should at minimum start voluntary restrictions because "if this area doesn’t get any snow this winter we are going to be in a world of hurt for water." Zelenka moved to enter Stage 1 Voluntary Water Restrictions; Council Member Pat Hatfield seconded. A roll call showed all present voting in favor and the motion carried.
Under Stage 1, the council directed the clerk to circulate flyers to businesses informing customers of voluntary measures and asked public works to increase well monitoring to at least weekly. Cumley said he would check wells weekly and pursue repairs: one vertical-screen motor triggered an overload fault and the crew will consult Wilson Electric or, if needed, equipment vendors such as WesTech to diagnose control-box contacts.
The council also heard a proposal to install gas tankless water heaters at the pool and Cornerstone Building; Cumley reported Findlay HVAC estimated the cost at $6,300, and staff will coordinate electrical work if a gas system is selected.
The action follows routine council review of city utilities and is intended to reduce demand and buy time for technical fixes and further assessments. The council will revisit restrictions and system repairs as new data becomes available.
