75A - PH - WATER CONSERVATION - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Notice of Public Hearing to Consider Amendments to Existing Water Conservation Program May 19, 2015 Page 2 were intended to eliminate the waste and unreasonable use of water. Some of the requirements included in the updated ordinance were restricting landscape irrigation to night and early morning hours, prohibiting the washing down of driveways and other paved surfaces, prohibiting restaurants from serving water unless requested by customers, and establishing mandatory conservation regulations during declared water shortages. The state of California continues to experience severe drought conditions. On April 1, 2015, the Governor issued an executive order to cities and towns across California to cut water use by 25 percent as part of a sweeping set of mandatory drought restrictions, the first in state history. In addition, on April 14, 2015, the Governing Board of the Metropolitan Water District (MWD) took action to reduce water deliveries to its member agencies, including the City of Santa Ana, effective July 1, 2015. As a result of this action, beginning July 1, 2015, the City's water deliveries will be reduced by 15 percent. The action by MWD also includes heavy surcharges for member agencies that exceed their allocations. The surcharge will be roughly four times the normal price of an acre -foot of water for usage above the allocated amount. Consistent with the California Water Code, it is in the public interest to adopt an ordinance for water conservation purposes. The proposed ordinance incorporates newly adopted state regulations on the use of potable water, such as requiring that all newly constructed homes and buildings be irrigated with drip or micro spray systems, prohibiting irrigation of ornamental turf on public street medians with potable water, prohibiting irrigation of outdoor landscapes within 48 hours after rainfall, and allowing enforcement by fines of up to $500 dollars. The ordinance also affords the City more flexibility in the implementation of declared water shortages. City Council declaration by resolution is still required to activate a conservation phase (Water Shortage Level 1, 2, or 3) and its attendant mandatory water use restrictions, including penalties, if any, for violating water shortage restrictions. STRATEGIC PLAN-ALIGNMENT Approval of this item supports the City's efforts to meet Goal #5 Community Health, Livability, Engagement & Sustainability, Objective #2 (expand opportunities for conservation and environmental sustainability). ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT There is no environmental impact associated with this action 75A -2