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Water superintendent warns supply is below demand; council urges 25% further outdoor cuts
Summary
Ephraim's water superintendent reported the city produced about 1.35 million gallons less than demand over 15 days and urged a 25% reduction in outdoor watering; councilors and staff emphasized voluntary conservation and stepped‑up outreach before mandating restrictions.
Jeff Jensen, Ephraim's Water Superintendent, told the City Council the city's water production was "approximately 1.35 million gallons below demand" during the previous 15‑day reporting period and that Well No. 1 has declined about 6.6 feet during that same period. He said Well No. 1 is operating roughly 17 hours per day, Well No. 2 has been placed into operation, and Well No. 3 is being held for emergency use pending repairs.
Jensen recommended an additional 25% reduction in outdoor water use and warned the city might need mandatory conservation measures if conditions continue to deteriorate. City Manager Katie Witt and staff described stepped‑up public education plans — including weekly text reminders and increased outreach — and recommended continuing voluntary measures for now to avoid immediate mandatory restrictions.
Council discussion focused on potential redevelopment of springs and identifying additional water sources. Jensen compared current conditions to the 2018 drought and noted projected demand will rise when students return in August, increasing pressure on the system. He and staff emphasized timing and the need to balance service reliability with community impacts of mandatory limits.
The council did not adopt new mandatory restrictions at the July 15 meeting; staff were directed to increase outreach and return with updates if conditions worsen.
