Watering debate

In discussing the 2009 Water Management Plan, council has split regarding a voluntary or mandatory lawn watering schedule.

Councilmembers Sandstrom and Markert have voiced support for a voluntary system, stating that citizens can competently manage their water. The high market prices of water would control usage, she said. Markert agreed stating that a mandatory watering schedule would be similar to "undermining our citizens" by forcing a schedule.

Councilmembers Hogan, Peterson and Beer, however, have voiced a mandatory schedule determined by address. In a semi-arid climate prone to shortages, and in a year that's seen little measurable moisture in the city, a mandatory schedule would help encourage a culture of conservation.

The latter position ultimately won out in a vote of 5 to 3. A Water Management Plan including a mandatory schedule will come back before council.