05/24/2004 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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• • QUARTER TOTAL CONSUMPTI 1st Quarter 2002 59,269,000 18,355 2nd Quarter 2002 66,217,000 20,200 3`d Quarter 2002 121,632,000 36,146 4th Quarter 2002 107,660,000 31,360 Total 2002 354,778,000 26,665 1 st Quarter 2003 63,449,000 18,317 2nd Quarter 2003 74,367,000 21,317 3rd Quarter 2003 185,594,000 52,309 4th Quarter 2003 190,205,000 53,071 Total 2003 513,615,000 36,406 Historically, Lino Lakes has had the luxury of being able to meet the peak consumption demands of residents without imposing formal restrictions. The dry conditions we experienced last year put an extreme burden on our water supply system. Peak water demand exceeded production throughout the summer months while overnight demand allowed tower levels to only slightly recover. We are also at the point of potentially comprising our public safety and fire protection capabilities. For example, the Insurance Services Organization recommends that our system be capable of a sustained flow of 3,500 gpm for a four -hour duration. The ability of our system to meet this criterion while also supplying peak domestic demand is doubtful. For the reasons explained above, as well as the philosophy that the city of Lino Lakes should be environmentally responsible to conserve our precious resources, staff is recommending that a sprinkling ban be implemented. The proposed ordinance implements an odd /even sprinkling ban from May 15 - September 15. The City Administrator will also have the authority to further restrict the sprinkling of lawns as needed when an extreme water shortage exists. The first violation shall result in a $25 citation, and a $50 subsequent violation to those individuals who repeat violations within the same calendar year. The adoption of seasonal watering restrictions is a necessary and reasonable measure to control water consumption during periods of peak demand. A sprinkling ban with reasonable enforcement will put us in a better position to increase our annual water appropriations. Also, a sprinkling ban with reasonable enforcement will delay the need for additional well houses that are very costly to build and maintain. In order to be allowed to increase our water appropriations and build additional well houses, a sprinkling ban needs to be implemented. Staff is in the process of educating /informing our residents through various means including the front page of the upcoming city newsletter, information in utility billings, the Consumer Confidence Water Report that is sent to all residents connected to the water system, and signage at entrances to several residential subdivisions. It is staffs position that this year we will be concentrating on informing the public of the new sprinkling ordinance, not taking enforcement measures until 2005.