Thanks to recent winter storms, California's drought conditions have improved. In response, during their April 12, 2023 meeting, Monte Vista Water District’s Board of Directors (Board) rescinded the Declaration of a Significant Water Supply Shortage and retracted Demand Reduction Rates (effective May 1, 2023). In accordance with District Ordinance 33, the Board’s action rolls back some water use restrictions and resumes year-round best practices of water use:
- Outdoor watering is not permitted between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. (with exceptions such as hand-watering)
- Avoid excess runoff from outdoor watering
- No hosing down driveways, sidewalks, buildings, or parking lots
- Use a shut-off hose nozzle to wash vehicles
- No watering during rain and 48 hours following
- Repair all plumbing and irrigation system leaks within seven (7) days of discovery
- Restaurants serve water only upon request
- Hotels provide option for non-daily linen service
“Our customers responded well when we asked them to conserve,” said Board President Sandra Rose. “Stepping up conservation efforts helped preserve our precious water during this recent drought emergency.”
In addition to rescinding the Declaration of a Significant Water Supply Shortage, the Board retracted Demand Reduction Rates which were implemented January 1, 2023 as revenue shortfalls were anticipated from less water consumed. (During the rate setting process, the Board established Demand Reduction Rates to be implemented during planned decreases in water use while service costs still need to be met.) While the Stage 2 Demand Reduction Rates will be retracted, rates will return to those established in the multi-year scheduled rate increase that were to be implemented January 1, 2023. Visit our water rate schedule webpage for details.
Conservation is now a way of life for Californians. MVWD believes its customers will continue using water wisely to preserve water supplies. Customers are encouraged to follow MVWD’s social media platforms as well as visit our website for conservation tips, rebate information, and future workshops to help them use water wisely.