FY 2021 2122 ADOPTED OPERATING AND FY 2021 2526 CIP BUDGETS

Water Conservation

650.5760

Division Description The Water Conservation Division works cooperatively with Valley Water on a variety of programs aimed at reducing water consumption. While the program typically focuses on long-term measures and approaches, as yearly consumption rates can vary significantly based on the temperature and rainfall experienced in the City, much effort was made in the past several years to respond to the drought and Valley Water’s calls for mandatory conservation and water use reductions mandated by the State Water Resources Control Board. The State is currently experiencing relatively “normal” water supply conditions which would have signaled a reduction in work activities in the past. However, with the growing uncertainty in future water supplies anticipated due to climate change, seismic instability, and biological conditions, the entire State of California is now implementing some form of enhanced permanent water conservation activities. Staff is now collaborating with Valley Water and other marketing partners to encourage water customers to use less water as a “way of life” and continue to seek new opportunities to enhance both water supplies and water efficiency. The City’s next Urban Water Management Plan is likely to require additional conservation activities in order for the City to remain in compliance with State regulations.

FY 2018-19 and 2019-20 Accomplishments

• Expanded use of WaterSmart engagement program by customers in order to provide enhanced customer service and leak detection • Aggressively promoted water conservation programs in order to keep conservation present in the community

FY 2020-21 and 2021-22 Activity Goals

• Continue expanding community water conservation (Protecting the Environment) • Update, rejuvenate, and promote water conservation demonstration gardens (Protecting the Environment) • Monitor water supplies and respond to potential additional calls for conservation if drought conditions change (Protecting the Environment, Advancing Regional Initiatives) • Introduce water efficiency ordinance to City Council (Protecting the Environment) • Lead coordination on regional planning efforts related to bringing recycled water to Morgan Hill (Advancing Regional Initiatives; Protecting the Environment)

COMMUNITY SERVICES 191