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Providence reports leak detection successes after new metering; Cache/"Cash" Water District offers rebate and seeding programs
Summary
City staff reported that new metering has identified leaks and cut water usage substantially in targeted accounts; a representative from the county water district urged adoption of landscape-incentive ordinances and promoted discounted water-wise grass seed and a $2/sq ft turf-to-xeriscape rebate program.
In staff reports toward the end of the meeting, Providence officials said a newly implemented metering program has identified numerous leaks across the distribution system and helped reduce consumption in the largest users. The city reported "tens of millions of gallons" saved through targeted leak detection and follow-up; several customers cut usage roughly in half after being contacted.
During public comment, Autumn Matthews (representing the county water district) described two conservation programs. The state-run landscape-incentive program offers a rebate of $2 per square foot to homeowners who rip out turf and replace it with water-wise landscaping (the program includes verification steps and targeted rules for new development). Separately, the district offers a discounted water-wise grass seed program at $3.50 per pound (half the normal retail price) to encourage conversion and reseeding. Matthews asked the city to spread awareness of these programs and to consider adopting enabling ordinances for the state rebate program on new development.
Staff also reported other ongoing projects (cemetery cleanup, trail work and sidewalk negotiations) and announced staffing changes in cemetery maintenance support. Council moved to closed session later in the evening to discuss property purchasing.
