CVWD proposes regulations to reduce water use
The Coachella Valley Water District is proposing ways to cut back water use by 36 percent. As News Channel 3’s Samantha Cortese reports, before passing any measures, the board wanted to hear from the public.
Read CVWD’s full water shortage contingency ordinance
Joe Nolan is the treasurer for the Sommerset HOA in Palm Desert. He says over the last few years, his community cut back water use by 31 percent. He’s one of many who spoke to a full house at the Coachella Valley Water District Office Tuesday morning.
California mandates that water districts implement 25 percent reduction in potable water use statewide — 36 percent in the Coachella Valley. Nolan and others feel those who’ve already been conserving water are being punished by asking them to do even more.
Drought penalties will increase with water use, and it’s based on current rates, meaning not everyone would have the same penalty. The board explained that with the way the tiered water rates work, 45 percent of customers will see a fine if they don’t cut back significantly, and 55 percent will likely not.
The prohibitions presented are as follows:
Irrigation during and within 48 hours of measurable rainfall
Restaurants aren’t allowed to serve water unless it’s requested
Hotels/Motels must offer guests to forgo daily laundering of linens
Use of potable water to irrigate new homes unless drip or micro-spray
Use of potable water to irrigate ornamental turf on public street medians
Limited watering days and hours:
Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m.
Money from the penalties will replenish lost revenue at the CVWD and fund community outreach projects. The water district will consider public comments and changes, and will vote on a final meeting on May 12, which is also open to the public.
