Rangely council adopts emergency drought ordinance with watering limits and penalties

The Rangely Town Council approved Ordinance 707, an emergency ordinance declaring a water‑shortage emergency and establishing a four‑stage drought response framework with outdoor watering restrictions, limits on bulk water use and a schedule of violations and penalties.

Town manager Jordan summarized the ordinance’s intent and said the town manager is authorized to declare and rescind drought stages. The ordinance includes a one‑year effective period and was described by staff as a tool the town can use immediately to conserve water.

Council members asked how enforcement and appeals would work. According to staff, code enforcement will issue written citations and staff will attempt in‑person communication; there is a 14‑day written appeal process to challenge a citation. A council member noted municipal court’s $300 maximum fine for municipal offenses, prompting staff to say unpaid citations could ultimately require further legal steps if not resolved.

Andy moved to adopt Ordinance 707; Jimmy seconded. The motion carried.

Why it matters: The ordinance creates immediate restrictions the town can use to reduce water demand during drought conditions and sets a penalty framework intended to encourage compliance. The council discussed limits of municipal court fines and the practical steps for appeals, but did not change the ordinance’s core provisions at the meeting.

What’s next: The ordinance takes effect immediately under the council’s emergency declaration and will automatically sunset after one year unless the council takes further action.