FY 2425 2526 Recommended Operating Budget

Environmental Services

Water Conservation

650.5760

Division Description The Water Conservation Division works on conservation programming which has become increasingly complex in response to recent drought, ongoing climate change anomalies, and new State regulations. Water use efficiency legislation SB 606 and AB 1668 were signed into law in May 2018 which resulted in the long - term Water Use Efficiency Standards. These standards require the City to track and report on conservation activities and progress toward meeting Urban Water Use Objectives (UWUO). Additionally, there is a local, regional, and state permanent ban on watering decorative grass in commercial, industrial, and institutional areas which has required significant education and engagement with the Community around water conservation. 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 regularly collaborates with Valley Water and other marketing partners on programs 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 2020 Urban Water Management Plan outlines the City ’ s strategy to address potential water shortages. FY 2022 - 23 and 2023 - 24 Accomplishments • Successfully completed the City ’ s first Urban Water Use Objectives Annual Report for compliance with new State - mandated Water Use Efficiency Standards. • Responded to drought emergency declarations by collaborating with the Community on water savings. During the drought, the City consistently saved at levels that met and exceeded regional and State goals. • Commenced the private sewer lateral inspection program which resulted in inspection and/or repairs of 462 laterals from 2022 to 2024, reducing infiltration into the City ’ s Wastewater System. • Coordinated with regional planning efforts to consider options that would bring recycled water to Morgan Hill including participation in completing the 2023 South County Water Reuse Master Plan Update.

190 PUBLIC SERVICES