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City staff proposes tiered drought rates as state requires 20% cut in use
Summary
Staff presented a tiered water-rate proposal tied to drought tiers (normal, moderate, severe) and a communication plan; staff noted the state classifies the city as in 'severe' drought and proposed usage-rate increases for conservation, plus monitoring and monthly reporting.
A staff member presented a short overview of proposed water-restriction tiers and a rate schedule designed to meet the state's 20% conservation target. "We're at severe," the presenter said about the state's drought designation, and explained the proposed structure would raise usage rates in the applicable tiers and rely on customer education and online notices to align behavior with the target.
Staff walked the council through examples of how base rates and per-gallon tier rates would change under 'severe' conditions and emphasized the city would keep the base meter charge but increase usage rates for conservation. Council members recommended consistent public-facing labels and color-coding on the city's website and in bills so residents clearly understand what tier is in force and why monthly reporting will be provided.
Ending: Staff will refine the sheet to match public notices, provide monthly tracking reports on usage and reservoir/basin indicators, and return with a cleaned-up communication plan and ordinance revisions if needed.
