City Council Minutes 2012 05 15 - Laserfiche WebLink

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City Council Meeting Minutes May 15, 2012 Page 7of11 MOTION: Mayor Muckle moved to continue the public hearing to June 5, 2012, seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Dalton. All were in favor. DISCUSSION/DIRECTION — DROUGHT RESPONSE Mayor Muckle requested a staff presentation. Public Works Director Kowar provided an update on the potential for a drought. One gauge of water supply is the snowpack. He explained the City draws water from two water basins; the South Platte and South Boulder Creek. The secondary water supply comes from Colorado Big Thompson through the Northern Colorado Water Conservancy District. Statewide the snowpack is at 12% of average; the South Platte Basin is at 19% of average; the CBT water is at 10% of average. Another gauge is temperature. The abnormally warm temperatures and low snowfall during April resulted in the low snowpack, which means we are one month ahead of the season and have lost one month of water. The City's demands (year-to-date) are near 120% of the 5-year average (April was 150%). The City has enough water to meet this year's demands, but should be prudent in its water use in case next year's snowpack is also below normal. Staff will continue to monitor weather conditions and impacts on the water system. They will also prepare and distribute water conservation information to the public through the Web, Facebook and the City newsletter and information relative lawn irrigation. PUBLIC COMMENTS Gary Baxley, 318 W. Hawthorn Court, Louisville, CO addressed the drought in 2002 and inquired whether the water supply the City has now is greater than the supply in 2002. He also asked if the increased water rate tiers had an effect on water conservation. Mayor Muckle responded yes to both questions. Public Works Director Kowar explained the water demand is down from 2002 due to water conservation efforts, the economy, and water efficiency appliances. Mayor Muckle stated the City has continued to acquire water rights and water storage. He noted the City has encouraged water conservation by implementing tiered water rates and giving rebates for water efficient appliances. The City is also participating in a new water project called the Chimney Hallow and has shares in Windy Gap Firming Project. Council member Sackett commended staff and City leaders for continually acquiring more water rights and storage rights. He noted everyone in the state must be