(a) 
Water supply has always been a key issue in the development of the state. In recent years, the increasing population and economic development in Region C have led to growing demands for water. At the same time, local and less expensive sources of water supply are largely developed; additional supplies to meet higher demands will be expensive and difficult to develop. Therefore, it is important that we make efficient use of existing supplies and make them last as long as possible. This will delay the need for new supplies, minimize the environmental impacts associated with developing new supplies, and delay the high cost of additional water supply development.
(b) 
Recognizing the need for efficient use of existing water supplies, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) has developed guidelines and requirements governing the development of water conservation and drought contingency plans for public water suppliers. The city has adopted this water conservation and drought contingency plan pursuant to TCEQ guidelines and requirements.
(c) 
The objectives of the water conservation plan are:
(1) 
To reduce water consumption.
(2) 
To reduce the loss and waste of water.
(3) 
To identify the level of water reuse.
(4) 
To improve efficiency in the use of water.
(5) 
To extend the life of current water supplies by reducing the rate of growth in demand.
(d) 
The objectives of the drought contingency plan are:
(1) 
To conserve the available water supply in times of drought and emergency.
(2) 
To maintain supplies for domestic water use, sanitation, and fire protection.
(3) 
To protect and preserve public health, welfare, and safety.
(4) 
To minimize the adverse impacts of water supply shortages.
(5) 
To minimize the adverse impacts of emergency water supply conditions.
(Ordinance 2019-08, ex. A, adopted 6/4/19; Ordinance 2024-07 adopted 4/2/2024)
(a) 
Conservation plans.
(1) 
The TCEQ rules governing development of water conservation plans for public water suppliers are contained in title 30, part 1, chapter 288, subchapter A, rule 288.2 of the Texas Administrative Code. For the purpose of these rules, a water conservation plan is defined as: "A strategy or combination of strategies for reducing the volume of water withdrawn from a water supply source, for reducing the loss or waste of water, for maintaining or improving the efficiency in the use of water, for increasing the recycling and reuse of water, and for preventing the pollution of water. A water conservation plan may be a separate document identified as such or may be contained within another water management document(s)."
(2) 
According to TCEQ rules, water conservation plans for public water suppliers must have a certain minimum content (section 13.11.003), must have additional content for public water suppliers that are projected to supply 5,000 or more people in the next ten years (section 13.11.004), and may have additional optional content (section 13.11.005).
(b) 
Drought contingency plans.
(1) 
The TCEQ rules governing development of drought contingency plans for public water suppliers are contained in title 30, part 1, chapter 288, subchapter B, rule 288.20 of the Texas Administrative Code. For the purpose of these rules, a drought contingency plan is defined as: "A strategy or combination of strategies for temporary supply and demand management responses to temporary and potentially recurring water supply shortages and other water supply emergencies. A drought contingency plan may be a separate document identified as such or may be contained within another water management document(s)."
(2) 
The water conservation and drought contingency plan for the city is contained in division 2 of this article.
(Ordinance 2019-08, ex. A, adopted 6/4/19; Ordinance 2024-07 adopted 4/2/2024)
The minimum requirements in the Texas Administrative Code for water conservation plans for public drinking water suppliers covered in this report are as follows:
§ 288.2(a)(1)(A) — Utility Profile — section 3.1
§ 288.2(a)(1)(B) — Specification of Goals Before May 1, 2005 — section 3.2
§ 288.2(a)(1)(C) — Specification of Goals After May 1, 2005 — section 3.2
§ 288.2(a)(1)(D) — Accurate Metering — sections 3.3 and 3.4
§ 288.2(a)(1)(E) — Universal Metering — section 3.4
§ 288.2(a)(1)(F) — Determination and Control of Unaccounted Water — section 3.5
§ 288.2(a)(1)(G) — Public Education and Information Program — section 3.6
§ 288.2(a)(1)(H) — Non-Promotional Water Rate Structure — section 3.7
§ 288.2(a)(1)(J) — Means of Implementation and Enforcement — section 3.8 § 288.2(a)(1)(K) — Coordination with Regional Water Planning Group — section 3.9
§ 288.30(10)(C) — Annual Water Conservation Implementation Reports — section 3.10
(1) 
Utility profile.
(A) 
The city has a current population of 14,298 with 6,330 connections both inside and outside the incorporated city limits. The raw water is supplied by the TRWD (Tarrant Regional Water District) from Eagle Mountain Lake. The water is treated at the city water plant located at 1500 Lakeview Drive Azle, Texas 76020, and has the capability of treating 6 MGD. The city also operates the Ash Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant located at 816 Park Street Azle, Texas 76020. The Ash Creek Wastewater plant has a permitted limit of 2.45 MGD, and is an activated sludge process.
(B) 
Table 1.1 summarizes key facts from the water utility profile. The water utility profile form is located at: 10218.doc (live.com).
(2) 
Specification of water conservation goals.
(A) 
Table 1.1 shows historical per capita municipal water use for the city. Water use is shown in units of gallons per capita per day (gpcd). Municipal water use is total use less wholesale sales to other municipal suppliers less sales to industrial users. Per capita municipal water use is municipal water use divided by population. The per capita municipal water use does not include industrial use.
(B) 
Projected per capita municipal uses were obtained from the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) and interpolated to match the appropriate years for the 5-year and 10-year goals. The TWDB projections are applicable for a dry year, in which outdoor water use would be high. Per capita municipal water use in a year with normal or high precipitation during the summer should be less than projected here.
Table 1.1 Summary of water utility profile for the city
Water Service Area: = 9 square miles
Miles of Distribution Pipe: = 96 miles
Population:
Current Population = 14,298 in 2023
2000 Population = 12,820
Projected 2050 Population = 19,281
Connections:
Connections = 5,701 in 2019
Current Connections = 6,330 in 2023
Total Increase in Connections in Last 5 Years = 871
Information on Water Use for the Last Five Years:
Year
Use (MG)
Population*
Estimated per Capita
City Water use (MG)
Water Loss in (MG)
Peak Day to Average Day
2019
528
12,790
113 gpcd
4.690
21.1
1.460-1.828
2020
592
12,820
127 gpcd
7.034
31.2
1.655-2.366
2021
612
12,940
130 gpcd
5.242
66.5
1.693-1.849
2022
708
13,608
142 gpcd
6.603
18.8
1.900-2.721
2023
698
14,298
132 gpcd
6.130
17.4
1.875-2.754
*Source of population estimate is NCTCOG (North Central Texas Council of Government).
Water Supply Source(s): = Eagle Mountain Lake
Treatment and Distribution System:
Treatment Plant Capacity = 6 million gallons per day
Elevated storage = 1.5 million gallons
Ground storage = 2.4 million gallons
Current Total Annual Wastewater Flow: = 475.30 million gallons in 2023.
(C) 
The TWDB projections include the impact of low-flow plumbing fixtures and water conservation measures that have been in effect since at least 2000 but do not include the effect of water conservation measures recommended in this plan. The impact of low-flow plumbing fixtures has been itemized to show the total amount of projected water conservation in the city. Table 1.2 shows the projected per capita water use after implementation of this water conservation and drought contingency plan. Table 1.2 also shows how much of the projected per capita water use is supplied by reclaimed water.
Table 1.2
Historical Total per Capita Use and Water Conservation Goals
Year
Gpcd
Historical per Capita Municipal Use
2019
113
2020
127
2021
130
2022
142
2023
132
5-Yr. average
129
Projected municipal use in 5 Yrs.
2028
129
Projected municipal use in 10 Yrs.
2038
126
(The city uses the 5-year average as the baseline for setting the GPCD goals.)
(D) 
The city's water conservation goals include the following:
(i) 
Maintain the city's meter replacement program (section 13.11.003(4)).
(ii) 
Keep the level of water loss in the system less than 4 GPCD in all subsequent years (section 13.11.003(5)).
(iii) 
Raise public awareness of water conservation and encourage responsible public behavior through a public education and information program, as discussed in section 13.11.003(6).
(iv) 
Decrease waste in lawn irrigation through implementation and enforcement of a landscape water management ordinance (section 5.4) [sic].
(3) 
Accurate metering of raw water supplies and treated water deliveries.
The city meters all raw water diversions from Eagle Mountain Lake and meters all treated water deliveries to the distribution system from the water treatment plant. Each meter has an accuracy of plus or minus 5 percent (5%). The meters are calibrated on an annual basis by a qualified meter technician to maintain the required accuracy and are repaired and/or replaced as needed.
(4) 
Metering of customer and public uses and meter testing, repair, and replacement.
(A) 
Water usage for all customers of the city, including public and governmental users, is metered.
(B) 
As part of the city's ongoing conservation efforts we will continue our meter replacement program, by replacing every meter on a 15-year cycle, based on the replacement of oldest meters in the system first. In addition, meters registering any unusual or questionable readings will be tested and replaced as needed.
(5) 
Determination and control of water loss.
(A) 
Water loss is the difference between raw water drawn from Eagle Mountain Lake and authorized consumption. Water losses can include categories such as:
(i) 
Inaccuracies in customer meters (customer meters tend to run more slowly as they age and under-report actual use).
(ii) 
Losses due to water main breaks and leaks in the water distribution system.
(iii) 
Losses due to illegal connections (theft).
(iv) 
Other.
(B) 
The city will conduct a water audit every 5 years using the TWDB Water Loss Manual. It is the city's plan to base this audit on real losses to include leakage and overflows at the water treatment plant. Identifying and preventing real losses decreases a utility's costs and decreases water usage. The city will target real losses under this water conservation strategy. Methods for controlling real water losses are discussed in section 13.11.004(1).
(C) 
Water loss for the city has varied from 10.80 percent to 2.50 percent in the last five years. With the measures described in this plan, the city intends to maintain the water loss below 5 GPCD in subsequent years.
(6) 
Continuing public education and information campaign.
The continuing public education and information campaign on water conservation for the city includes the following elements:
(A) 
Promote the city's water conservation measures (presented in sections 13.11.003, 13.11.004, and 13.11.005).
(B) 
Include inserts on water conservation with water bills at least twice per year. Inserts will include material developed by city of Azle staff and material obtained from the TWDB, the TCEQ, the AWWA and other sources.
(C) 
Encourage local media coverage of water conservation issues and the importance of water conservation.
(D) 
Notify local organizations, schools, and civic groups that city of Azle staff is available to make presentations on the importance of water conservation and ways to save water.
(E) 
Make the Texas Smartscape, water conservation brochures, and other water conservation materials available to the public.
(F) 
Make information on water conservation available online at www.cityofazle.org and will include links to the Texas Smartscape website and to information on water conservation on the TWDB and TCEQ web sites.
(7) 
Non-promotional water rate structure.
With the intent of encouraging water conservation and discouraging waste and excessive use of water, the city has adopted an increasing block rate water structure where the unit price of water increases with increasing water use. Current water rates are shown in tables 1.3 and 1.4.
Table 1.3
Monthly Base Rate Inside the City
Monthly Base Rate Outside the City
Meter Size
(in)
Total Charge Residential
Total Charge Commercial
Meter Size
(in)
Total Charge Residential
Total Charge Commercial
5/8 x 3/4
$25.94
$31.40
5/8 x 3/4
$38.93
$46.71
1
$37.63
$45.15
1
$56.44
$67.73
1 1/2
$55.53
$66.64
1 1/2
$83.30
$99.96
2
$76.81
$92.17
2
$115.22
$138.26
3
$179.06
$214.87
3
$268.58
$332.30
4
$302.06
$362.47
4
$453.09
$543.70
6
$510.48
$612.57
6
$765.72
$918.85
Table 1.4
Volume Charges Inside the City
Volume Charges Outside the City
Cubic Feet Used
Volume Unit Charge
($/100 cf)
Cubic Feet Used
Volume Unit Charge
($/100 cf)
275 or less
Included in base rate
275 or less
Included in base rate
276-1,500
$3.02
276-1,500
$4.53
1,501-2,000
$4.00
1,501-2,000
$6.00
2,001-4,000
$4.10
2,001-4,000
$6.15
4,001-6,000
$4.20
4,001-6,000
$6.30
6,001-8,000
$4.30
6,001-8,000
$6.45
Above 8,000
$4.45
Above 8,000
$6.68
(8) 
Implementation and enforcement of the water conservation plan.
The city council has adopted this water conservation and drought contingency plan. The resolution designates responsible officials to implement and enforce the water conservation and drought contingency plan. The landscape water management ordinance for the city also includes information about enforcement.
(9) 
Coordination with regional water planning group.
(A) 
Notification was sent to the chair of the Region C Water Planning Group of the city's commitment to this water conservation and drought contingency plan.
(B) 
This plan also requires submittal to TWDB and TRWD of a water conservation implementation report by May 1st each year. TWDB has a reporting form: https://www.twdb.texas.gov/conservation/municipal/plans/doc/RWS_1966.pdf
(10) 
Annual water conservation implementation reports.
(A) 
The city will submit a water conservation implementation report to the executive administrator of the Texas Water Development Board by May 1st each year. This report will include water use statistics, describe conservation measures implemented, provide data about whether or not targets in the plan are being met, and estimate the actual amount of water saved. The most recent water conservation implementation report may be found at www.cityofazle.org.
(B) 
In addition, the city will submit a customer water conservation report to the Tarrant Regional Water District by May 1st each year. This report will include population and service area data, number of connections, water use data, and projected water demands. The most recent TRWD customer water conservation report may be requested from the superintendent of the city water treatment plant by calling 817-752-2686.
(Ordinance 2019-08, ex. A, adopted 6/4/19; Ordinance 2024-07 adopted 4/2/2024)
The Texas Administrative Code also includes additional requirements for water conservation plans for public drinking water suppliers that serve a population of 5,000 people or more and/or a projected population of 5,000 people or more within the next ten years:
§ 288.2(a)(2)(A) — Leak Detection, Repair, and Water Loss Accounting — sections 3.5 and 4.1
§ 288.2(a)(2)(B) — Record Management System — section 4.2
§ 288.2(a)(2)(C) — Wholesale Customers Must Develop Water Conservation Plans — section 4.3
(1) 
Leak detection and repair; pressure control.
(A) 
Measures to control water loss are part of the routine operations of the city. Meter readers watch for and report signs of illegal connections so they can be addressed quickly. Crews and personnel look for and report evidence of leaks in the water distribution system. Maintenance crews respond quickly to repair leaks reported by the public and city personnel. The city spends $750,000.00 per year to repair and replace water distribution lines and uses two (2) distribution line maintenance crews. Areas of the water distribution system in which numerous leaks and line breaks occur are targeted for replacement as funds are available.
(B) 
To further reduce water losses, the city will maintain a proactive water loss program. As part of this program, the city responds quickly to reports of leaks within 24 hours.
(2) 
Record management system.
As required by TAC title 30, part 1, chapter 288, subchapter A, rule 288.2(a)(2)(B), the record management system for the city records water pumped, water delivered, and water sold; estimates water losses; and allows for the separation of water sales and uses into residential, commercial, public/institutional, and industrial categories.
(3) 
Requirement for water conservation plans by wholesale customers.
At this time, the city is not a wholesale water provider. After adoption of this plan, each contract for the wholesale sale of water by the city will include a requirement that the wholesale customer develop and implement a water conservation plan meeting the requirements of title 30, part 1, chapter 288, subchapter A, rule 288.2 of the Texas Administrative Code. This requirement will also extend to each successive wholesale customer in the resale of the water.
(Ordinance 2019-08, ex. A, adopted 6/4/19; Ordinance 2024-07 adopted 4/2/2024)
TCEQ rules also list optional (not required) conservation strategies, which may be adopted by suppliers to achieve the stated goals of the plan. The following optional strategies are listed in the rules and included in this plan:
§ 288.2(a)(3)(A) — Conservation Oriented Water Rates — section 3.7
§ 288.2(a)(3)(B) — Ordinances, Plumbing Codes or rules on Water-Conserving Fixtures — section 5.1
§ 288.2(a)(3)(D) — Reuse and Recycling of Wastewater — section 5.2
§ 288.2(a)(3)(F) — Landscape Water Management Ordinance — Water Waste Prohibition — section 5.3
(1) 
Ordinances, plumbing codes, or rules on water-conserving fixtures.
The state has required water-conserving fixtures in new construction and renovations since 1992. The state standards call for flows of no more than 2.2 gpm for faucets, 2.5 gpm for showerheads, 1.0 gpm for urinals, and 1.6 gallons per flush for toilets. Similar standards are also required under federal law. These state and federal standards assure that all new construction and renovations in the city will use water-conserving fixtures.
(2) 
Reuse and recycling of wastewater.
The city operates the Ash Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant; it discharges approximately 2,000 ac-ft/yr of reclaimed water to a holding pond at the city Cross-Timbers Golf Course on Reynolds Branch Creek approximately 3 miles west of said wastewater treatment plant, where it is used to irrigate the Cross-Timbers Golf Course. This reuse project provides approximately 100 percent of the Cross-Timbers Golf Courses total irrigation water supply.
(3) 
Water waste prohibition.
As part of the development of this water conservation plan, the city adopted a landscape water management ordinance. The ordinance is intended to minimize waste in landscape irrigation. This waste includes; watering during any form of precipitation, not maintaining the system (i.e., broken heads, missing heads, broken irrigation lines, or watering impervious surfaces). The ordinance includes the following elements:
(A) 
A recommendation that outdoor watering with automatic sprinklers from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. is discouraged. (Watering with handheld hoses, soaker hoses, or dispensers is allowed.)
(B) 
Requirement that all new irrigation systems include rain and freeze sensors.
(C) 
Requirement that all new irrigation systems be in compliance with state design and installation regulations (Texas Administrative Code title 30, part 1, chapter 344).
(D) 
Prohibition of designs and installations that spray directly onto impervious surfaces such as sidewalks and roads or onto other non-irrigated areas.
(E) 
Prohibition of use of poorly maintained sprinkler systems that waste water.
(F) 
Prohibition of outdoor watering during any form of precipitation.
(G) 
Enforcement of the ordinance by a system of verbal warnings, written letters and then followed by fines for continued or repeat violations.
(Ordinance 2019-08, ex. A, adopted 6/4/19; Ordinance 2024-07 adopted 4/2/2024)
The purpose of this drought contingency plan is as follows:
(1) 
To conserve the available water supply in times of drought and emergency.
(2) 
To maintain supplies for domestic water use, sanitation, and fire protection.
(3) 
To protect and preserve public health, welfare, and safety.
(4) 
To minimize the adverse impacts of water supply shortages.
(5) 
To minimize the adverse impacts of emergency water supply conditions.
(Ordinance 2019-08, ex. A, adopted 6/4/19; Ordinance 2024-07 adopted 4/2/2024)
This water conservation and drought contingency plan is consistent with Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) guidelines and requirements for the development of drought contingency plans by public drinking water suppliers, contained in title 30, part 1, chapter 288, subchapter B, rule 288.20 of the Texas Administrative Code. TCEQ's minimum requirements for drought contingency plans are addressed in the following subsections of this report:
288.20(a)(1)(A) — Provisions to Inform the Public and Provide Opportunity for Public Input — section 6.3
288.20(a)(1)(B) — Provisions for Continuing Public Education and Information — section 6.4
288.20(a)(1)(C) — Coordination with the Regional Water Planning Group — section 6.14
288.20(a)(1)(D) — Criteria for Initiation and Termination of Drought Stages — section 6.5 and 6.6
288.20(a)(1)(E) — Drought and Emergency Response Stages — section 6.7
288.20(a)(1)(F) — Specific, Quantified Targets for Water Use Reductions — section 6.8, 6.9, and 6.10
288.20(a)(1)(G) — Water Supply and Demand Management Measures for Each Stage — section 6.4, 6.5, and 6.6
288.20(a)(1)(H) — Procedures for Initiation and Termination of Drought Stages — section 6.12
288.20(a)(1)(I) — Procedures for Granting Variances — section 6.13
288.20(a)(1)(J) — Procedures for Enforcement of Mandatory Restrictions — section 6.8
288.20(a)(3) — Consultation with Wholesale Supplier — 6.14
288.20(b) — Notification of Implementation of Mandatory Measures — section 6.5
288.20(c) — Review and Update of plan — section 6.15
(Ordinance 2019-08, ex. A, adopted 6/4/19; Ordinance 2024-07 adopted 4/2/2024)
The city provided opportunity for public input in the development of this water conservation and drought contingency plan by the following means:
(1) 
Providing written notice of the proposed plan and the opportunity to comment on the plan by posted notice and notice on the city's website, http://www.cityofazle.org.
(2) 
Making the draft plan available on city's website, http//www.cityofazle.org.
(3) 
Providing the draft plan to anyone requesting a copy.
(4) 
Hold a public meeting at city hall at the time of adoption.
(Ordinance 2019-08, ex. A, adopted 6/4/19; Ordinance 2024-07 adopted 4/2/2024)
(a) 
The city will inform and educate the public about its water conservation and drought contingency plan by the following means:
(1) 
Preparing a bulletin describing the plan and making it available at city hall and other appropriate locations.
(2) 
Making the plan available to the public through the city's website at http//www.cityofazle.org.
(3) 
Including information about the plan on the city's website, http//www.cityofazle.org.
(4) 
Notifying local organizations, schools, and civic groups that city of Azle staff members are available to make presentations on the drought contingency plan (usually in conjunction with presentations on water conservation programs).
(5) 
The Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) includes a page about conservation that contains links to websites that promote conservation and drought update information. In addition, as required by House Bill 1461, the CCR contains information on the most recent water loss reported in the TWDB water loss audit.
(b) 
At any time that the drought contingency plan is activated, or the drought stage changes, the city will notify local media of the issues, the drought response stage, and the specific actions required of the public. The information will also be publicized on the city website, http//www.cityofazle.org. Billing inserts will also be used as appropriate.
(Ordinance 2019-08, ex. A, adopted 6/4/19; Ordinance 2024-07 adopted 4/2/2024)
(a) 
The city manager or his/her official designee may order the implementation of a drought response stage or water emergency when one or more of the trigger conditions for that stage is met. The following actions will be taken when a drought stage is initiated:
(1) 
The public will be notified through local media.
(2) 
Wholesale customers (none at present) will be notified by telephone with a follow-up letter or fax.
(3) 
If any mandatory provisions of the drought contingency plan are activated, the city will notify the executive director of the TCEQ within five (5) business days.
(b) 
For other trigger conditions, the city manager or his/her designee may decide not to order the implementation of a drought response stage or water emergency even though one or more of the trigger criteria for the stage are met. Factors that could influence such a decision include, but are not limited to, the time of the year, weather conditions, the anticipation of replenished water supplies, or the anticipation that additional facilities will become available to meet the needs of the city and its customers.
(Ordinance 2019-08, ex. A, adopted 6/4/19; Ordinance 2024-07 adopted 4/2/2024)
(a) 
The city manager or official designee may order the termination of a drought response stage or water emergency when the conditions for termination are met or at his/her discretion. The following actions will be taken when a drought stage is terminated:
(1) 
The public will be notified through local media.
(2) 
Wholesale customers will be notified by telephone with a follow-up letter or fax.
(3) 
When any mandatory provisions of the drought contingency plan that have been activated are terminated, the city will notify the executive director of the TCEQ within 5 business days.
(b) 
The city manager or his/her designee may decide not to order the termination of a drought response stage or water emergency even though the conditions for termination of the stage are met. Factors that could influence such a decision include, but are not limited to, the time of the year, weather conditions, or the anticipation of potentially changed conditions that warrant the continuation of the drought stage.
(Ordinance 2019-08, ex. A, adopted 6/4/19; Ordinance 2024-07 adopted 4/2/2024)
The triggering criteria described below are based on a statistical analysis of the vulnerability of the water source under drought of record conditions as developed by the raw water provider, Tarrant Regional Water District (TRWD).
(Ordinance 2019-08, ex. A, adopted 6/4/19; Ordinance 2024-07 adopted 4/2/2024)
(a) 
Triggering and termination conditions for Stage 1, Water watch.
(1) 
Triggering conditions.
(A) 
Total combined raw water supply in TRWD western and eastern division reservoirs drops below 75% (25% depleted) of conservation storage capacity.
(B) 
Water demand is projected to approach the limit of permitted supply.
(C) 
Supply source becomes contaminated.
(D) 
Water supply system is unable to deliver water due to the failure or damage of major water system components.
(E) 
The city manager, with the concurrence of the city council, finds that conditions warrant the declaration of a stage 1 drought.
(2) 
Termination.
Subject to preceding paragraphs regarding the termination of a drought response stage, stage 1, water watch, will be terminated when the total combined raw water supply in TRWD's West Fork and East Texas reservoirs exceeds 95% of conservation storage or remains above 85% for 90 consecutive days, whichever occurs first.
(b) 
Goal for use reductions.
The goal for the stage 1 water use restriction is a five percent (5%) reduction in system demand compared to system demand prior to implementation of stage 1.
(c) 
Actions available under stage 1, water watch.
(1) 
The city manager may order the implementation of any of the actions listed below, as deemed necessary. Measures imposing mandatory requirements on customers require notification to TCEQ. TRWD must notify TCEQ within five business days if any mandatory measures are implemented.
(A) 
Require customers (including indirect customers) to initiate stage 1 in their drought contingency plans. Indirect customers include any successive wholesale customers of the city's primary wholesale customers.
(B) 
Initiate mandatory restrictions to prohibit non-essential water use as follows:
(i) 
Prohibit hosing of paved areas, such as sidewalks, driveways, parking lots, tennis courts, or other impervious surfaces, except to alleviate an immediate health or safety hazard.
(ii) 
Prohibit hosing of buildings or other structures for purposes other than fire protection or surface preparation prior to painting.
(iii) 
Prohibit using water in such a manner as to allow runoff or other waste, including:
a. 
Failure to repair a controllable leak, including a broken sprinkler head, a leaking valve, leaking or broken pipes, or a leaking faucet;
b. 
Operating a permanently installed irrigation system with: (1) a broken head; (2) a head that is out of adjustment and the arc of the spray head is over a street or parking lot; or (3) a head that is misting because of high water pressure; or
c. 
During irrigation, allowing water to: (1) run off a property and form a stream of water in a street for a distance of 50 feet or greater; or (2) to pond in a street or parking lot to a depth greater than one-quarter of an inch.
(C) 
Prohibit outdoor watering with sprinklers or irrigation systems between 10:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.
(D) 
Limit landscape watering with sprinklers or irrigation systems at each service address to twice per week (outdoor watering schedule to be determined by the director of public services). Includes landscape watering of parks, golf courses and sports fields.
Exceptions:
(i) 
Foundations may be watered for up to two hours on any day by handheld hose; or using a soaker hose or drip system placed within 24-inches of the foundation that does not produce a spray of water above the ground.
(ii) 
Newly installed shrubs (first year) and trees may be watered for up to two hours on any day by handheld hose, drip irrigation, soaker hose, or tree bubbler. Tree watering is limited to an area not to exceed the drip line of a tree.
(iii) 
Establishing new turf is discouraged. If new hydro mulch, grass sod, or grass seed is installed for the purpose of establishing a new lawn, there are no watering restrictions for the first 30 days while it is being established. After that, the watering restrictions set forth in this stage apply. (This exception does not include over seeding with rye since turf already exists.)
(iv) 
Outdoor watering at service addresses with large multi-station irrigation systems may take place in accordance with a variance granted by the director of public services, if the director of public services determines that a property cannot be completely irrigated with an average of three-quarters of an inch of water in a single day, and that the property should be divided into sections to be watered on different days.
(v) 
Twice per week watering restrictions do not apply to locations using well water or treated wastewater effluent for irrigation.
(E) 
Washing of any motor vehicle, motorbike, boat, trailer, airplane, or other vehicle shall be limited to the use of a handheld bucket or a handheld hose equipped with a positive shutoff nozzle for quick rinses. Vehicle washing may be done at any time on the premises of a commercial carwash or commercial service station. Further, such washing may be exempt from these requirements if the health, safety, and welfare of the public are contingent upon frequent vehicle cleansing, such as garbage trucks and vehicles used to transport food and perishables.
(F) 
All users are encouraged to reduce the frequency of draining and refilling swimming pools.
(G) 
All users are encouraged to use state native and drought tolerant plants in landscaping.
(2) 
In addition to actions listed above the city and local government shall:
(A) 
Review conditions and problems that caused stage 1. Take corrective action.
(B) 
Increase public education efforts on ways to reduce water use.
(C) 
Increase enforcement efforts.
(D) 
Intensify leak detection and repair efforts.
(E) 
Audit all city and local government irrigation systems to ensure proper condition, settings, and operation.
(F) 
Identify and encourage voluntary reduction measures by high-volume water users through water use audits.
(G) 
Landscape watering of municipal parks, golf courses, and sports fields is limited to twice per week watering schedule; or twice per week per irrigation station if a variance is granted by the director of public services. (See exceptions to outdoor watering restrictions in all water user's category for rules that apply to facilities with large multi-station irrigation systems.)
Exceptions:
(i) 
Golf courses may water greens and tee boxes without restrictions; however, watering must be done before 10:00 a.m. and after 6:00 p.m.
(ii) 
Skinned areas of sports fields may be watered as needed for dust control.
(H) 
Reduce non-essential water use. As used herein, non-essential water uses are those that do not have any health or safety impact and are not needed to meet the core function of the agency.
(I) 
Notify wholesale customers of actions being taken and request them to implement the same drought stage and measures.
(3) 
Commercial or industrial:
(A) 
All actions listed above for all water users apply to commercial and industrial users.
(B) 
Landscape watering of parks, golf courses, and sports fields is limited to twice per week watering schedule; or twice per week per irrigation station if a variance is granted by the director of public services. (See exceptions to outdoor watering restrictions in all water user's category above for rules that apply to facilities with large multi-station irrigation systems.)
Exceptions:
(i) 
Golf courses may water greens and tee boxes without restrictions; however, watering must be done before 10:00 a.m. and after 6:00 p.m.
(ii) 
Skinned areas of sports fields may be watered without restrictions as needed for dust control.
(iii) 
Professional sports fields (playing fields with a stadium only — not surrounding landscaping) may be watered as needed to maintain league standards.
(C) 
Stock at commercial plant nurseries is exempt from stage 1 watering restrictions.
(D) 
Hotels, restaurants, and bars are encouraged to serve drinking water to patrons on an "on demand" basis.
(E) 
Hotels are encouraged to implement laundry conservation measures by encouraging patrons to reuse linens and towels.
(Ordinance 2019-08, ex. A, adopted 6/4/19; Ordinance 2024-07 adopted 4/2/2024)
(a) 
Triggering and termination conditions for Stage 2, Water warning.
(1) 
Triggering conditions.
(A) 
Total raw water supply in TRWD western and eastern division reservoirs drops below 60% (40% depleted) of conservation storage capacity.
(B) 
Water demand for all or part of the delivery system approaches delivery capacity because delivery capacity is inadequate.
(C) 
Water demand is projected to approach the limit of permitted supply.
(D) 
Supply sources become contaminated.
(E) 
Water supply system is unable to deliver water due to the failure or damage of major water system components.
(F) 
The city manager, with the concurrence of the city council, finds that conditions warrant the declaration of a stage 2 drought.
(2) 
Termination.
Subject to preceding paragraphs regarding the termination of a drought response stage, stage 2, water warning, will be terminated when the total combined raw water supply in TRWD's West Fork and East Texas reservoirs exceeds 75% of conservation storage or remains at or above 70% for 30 consecutive days, whichever occurs first.
(b) 
Goal for use reduction.
The goal for the stage 2 water use restriction is a ten percent (10%) reduction in system demand compared to system demand prior to implementation of stage 1.
(c) 
Actions available under stage 2, water warning.
(1) 
The city manager may order the implementation of any of the actions listed below, as deemed necessary. Measures imposing mandatory requirements on customers require notification to TCEQ. The city must notify TCEQ within five business days if any mandatory measures are implemented.
(A) 
Continue or initiate any actions available under stage 1.
(B) 
Require customers (including indirect customers) to initiate stage 2 in their drought contingency plans. Indirect customers include any wholesale customer of the city's primary wholesale customers.
(C) 
Initiate engineering studies to evaluate water supply alternatives should conditions worsen.
(2) 
All water users:
(A) 
Limit landscape watering with sprinklers or irrigation systems at each service address to once every seven days. Outdoor watering schedule to be determined by the city manager.
Exceptions:
(i) 
Foundations may be watered for up to two hours on any day by handheld hose; or using a soaker hose or drip system placed within 24 inches of the foundation that does not produce a spray of water above the ground.
(ii) 
Newly installed shrubs (first year), and trees may be watered up to two hours on any day by handheld hose, drip irrigation, or a soaker hose. Tree watering is limited to an area not to exceed the drip line of a tree.
(iii) 
Outdoor watering at service addresses with large multi-station irrigation systems may take place in accordance with a variance granted by the director of public services, if the director of public services determines that a property cannot be completely irrigated with an average three-quarters of an inch of water in a single day, and that the property should be divided into sections to be watered on different days.
(iv) 
Once per week watering restrictions do not apply to locations using well water or treated wastewater effluent for irrigation.
(B) 
All users are encouraged to wait until the current drought or emergency situation has passed before establishing new landscaping and turf. If new hydro mulch, grass sod, or grass seed is installed for the purpose of establishing a new lawn, there are no watering restrictions for the first 30 days while it is being established. After that, the watering restrictions set forth in this stage apply. (This exception does not include over seeding with rye since turf already exists.)
(C) 
Prohibit the use of water for dust control, except as required to protect public health.
(D) 
Prohibit the operation of ornamental fountains or ponds that use potable water except where necessary to support aquatic life or where such fountains or ponds are equipped with a recirculation system.
(E) 
Prohibit filling of swimming pools with automatic valves.
(3) 
In addition to actions listed above the city and local government:
(A) 
Continue or initiate any actions available under stage 2.
(B) 
Review conditions or problems that caused stage 2. Take corrective action.
(C) 
Increase frequency of media releases on water supply conditions.
(D) 
Further accelerate public education efforts on ways to reduce water use.
(E) 
Landscape watering of municipal parks, golf courses, and sports fields is limited to once every seven days; or once every seven days per irrigation station if a variance is granted by the director of public services. (See stage 2 exceptions to outdoor watering restrictions in all water user's category for rules that apply to facilities with large multi-station irrigation systems.)
Exceptions:
(i) 
Golf courses may water greens and tee boxes as needed to keep them alive, however watering must be done before 10:00 a.m. and after 6:00 p.m. Fairways are restricted to once per week watering as outlined above. Golf course rough cannot be watered.
(ii) 
Watering for dust control on skinned areas of sports fields is not allowed.
(F) 
Eliminate non-essential water use. As used herein, non-essential water uses are those that do not have any health or safety impact and are not needed to meet the core function of the agency.
(G) 
Prohibit wet street sweeping.
(H) 
Notify wholesale customers of actions being taken and request them to implement the same drought stage and measures.
(4) 
Commercial or industrial:
(A) 
All actions listed above for all water users apply to commercial and industrial users.
(B) 
Landscape watering of parks, golf courses, and sports fields is limited to once every seven days; or once every seven days per irrigation station if a variance is granted by the director of public services. (See stage 2 exceptions to outdoor watering restrictions in all water user's category for rules that apply to facilities with large multi-station irrigation systems.)
Exceptions:
(i) 
Golf courses may water greens and tee boxes as needed to keep them alive, however watering must be done before 10:00 a.m. and after 6:00 p.m. Fairways are restricted to once per week watering as outlined above. Golf course rough cannot be watered.
(ii) 
Watering for dust control on skinned areas of sports fields is not allowed.
(iii) 
Professional sports fields (playing fields with a stadium only — not surrounding landscaping) may be watered as needed to maintain league standards.
(Ordinance 2019-08, ex. A, adopted 6/4/19; Ordinance 2024-07 adopted 4/2/2024)
(a) 
Triggering and termination conditions for Stage 3, Water emergency.
(1) 
Triggering conditions.
(A) 
Total raw water supply in TRWD western and eastern division reservoirs drops below 45% (55% depleted) of conservation storage capacity.
(B) 
Water demand exceeds the amount that can be delivered to customers.
(C) 
Water demand for all or part of the city delivery system approaches delivery capacity because delivery capacity is inadequate.
(D) 
One or more of TRWD's water supply sources has become limited in availability.
(E) 
Water demand is projected to approach the limit of permitted supply.
(F) 
Supply source becomes contaminated.
(G) 
Water supply system is unable to deliver water due to the failure or damage of major water system components.
(H) 
The city manager, with concurrence of the city council, finds that conditions warrant the declaration of a stage 3 drought.
(2) 
Termination.
Subject to preceding paragraphs regarding the termination of a drought response stage, stage 3, water emergency, will be terminated when the total combined raw water supply in TRWD's West Fork and East Texas reservoirs exceeds 60% of conservation storage or remains at or above 55% for 30 consecutive days, whichever occurs first.
(b) 
Goals for use reduction and actions available under, Stage 3, Water emergency.
The goal for the stage 3 water use restriction is a twenty percent (20%) reduction in system demand compared to system demand prior to implementation of stage 1.
(c) 
Action available under, Stage 3, Water emergency.
(1) 
All requirements of stage 2 shall remain in effect during stage 3.
(2) 
The city manager can order the implementation of any of the actions listed below, as deemed necessary. Measures imposing mandatory requirements on customers require notification to TCEQ. The city must notify TCEQ within five business days if these measures are implemented.
(A) 
Continue or initiate any actions available under stages 1 and 2.
(B) 
Require customers (including indirect customers) to initiate stage 3 in their drought contingency plans. Indirect customers include any wholesale customer of the city's primary wholesale customers.
(3) 
All water users:
(A) 
Prohibit all landscape watering, including at parks, golf courses, and sports fields.
Exceptions:
(i) 
Foundations may be watered for up to two hours on any day by handheld hose; or using a soaker hose or drip irrigation system placed within 24 inches of the foundation that does not produce a spray of water above the ground.
(ii) 
Trees may be watered for up to two hours on any day by handheld hose, drip irrigation, or soaker hose. Tree watering is limited to an area not to exceed the drip line of a tree.
(B) 
Prohibit establishment of new landscaping.
(C) 
Vehicle washing restricted to commercial carwash or commercial service station and can only be done as necessary for health, sanitation, or safety reasons, including but not limited to the washing of garbage trucks and vehicles used to transport food and other perishables. All other vehicle washing is prohibited.
(D) 
Prohibit the operation of ornamental fountains or ponds that use potable water except where necessary to support aquatic life.
(E) 
Prohibit the draining, filling, or refilling of swimming pools, wading pools, and Jacuzzi type pools. Existing private and public pools may add water to maintain pool levels; however, they may not be refilled using automatic fill valves.
(4) 
In addition to actions listed above the city and local government:
(A) 
Continue or initiate any actions available under stages 1 and 2.
(B) 
Review conditions or problems that caused stage 3. Take corrective action.
(C) 
Implement viable alternative water supply strategies.
(D) 
Increase frequency of media releases explaining emergency situation.
(E) 
Reduce city and local government water use to the maximum extent possible.
(F) 
Prohibit the permitting of new swimming pools, Jacuzzi type pools, spas, ornamental ponds, and fountain construction. Pools already permitted and under construction may be completely filled with water.
(G) 
Landscape watering at municipal parks, golf courses, and sports fields is prohibited.
Exception. Golf course greens may be watered by hand as needed to keep them alive, however watering must be done before 10:00 a.m. and after 6:00 p.m.
(H) 
Institute a mandated reduction in deliveries to all customers. Such a reduction will be distributed as required by Texas Water Code § 11.039.
(I) 
If the city has imposed a reduction in water available to customers, impose the same percentage reduction on wholesale customers.
(J) 
Notify wholesale customers of actions being taken and request them to implement the same drought stage and measures.
(5) 
Commercial or industrial:
(A) 
All actions listed above for all water users apply to commercial and industrial users.
(B) 
Landscape watering at parks, golf courses, and sports fields is prohibited.
Exceptions:
(i) 
Golf course greens may be watered by hand as needed to keep them alive, however watering must be done before 10:00 a.m. and after 6:00 p.m.
(ii) 
Professional sports fields (playing fields with a stadium only — not surrounding landscaping) may be watered as needed to maintain league standards.
(C) 
Hotels, restaurants, and bars required to serve drinking water to patrons on an "on demand" basis.
(D) 
Hotels are required to implement laundry conservation measures by encouraging patrons to reuse linens and towels.
(E) 
Stock at commercial plant nursery may be watered only with a handheld hose, handheld watering can, or drip irrigation system.
(F) 
Commercial water users are required to reduce water use by a set percentage determined by the director of public services.
(Ordinance 2019-08, ex. A, adopted 6/4/19; Ordinance 2024-07 adopted 4/2/2024)
In the event that water shortage conditions threaten public health, safety, and welfare, the city manager is hereby authorized to ration water according to the following water allocation plan:
(1) 
Single-family residential customers.
(A) 
The allocation to residential water customers residing in a single-family dwelling shall be as follows:
Persons per Household
Gallons per Month
1 or 2
6,000
3 or 4
7,000
5 or 6
8,000
7 or 8
9,000
9 or 10
10,000
11 or more
12,000
(B) 
"Household" means the residential premises served by the customer's meter. "Persons per household" includes only those persons currently physically residing at the premises and expected to reside there for the entire billing period. It shall be assumed that a particular customer's household is comprised of two (2) persons unless the customer notifies the city of a greater number of persons per household on a form prescribed by the city manager. The city manager shall make his/her best effort to see that such forms are mailed, otherwise provided, or made available to every residential customer. If, however, a customer does not receive such a form, it shall be the customer's responsibility to go to the city offices to complete and sign the form claiming more than two (2) persons per household. New customers may claim more persons per household at the time of applying for water service on the form prescribed by the city manager. When the number of persons per household increases so as to place the customer in a different allocation category, the customer may notify the city on such form and the change will be implemented in the next practicable billing period. If the number of persons in a household is reduced, the customer shall notify the city in writing within two (2) days. In prescribing the method for claiming more than two (2) persons per household, the city manager shall adopt methods to ensure the accuracy of the claim. Any person who knowingly, recklessly, or with criminal negligence falsely reports the number of persons in a household or fails to timely notify the city of a reduction in the number of persons in a household shall be fined not less than $200.00. Residential water customers shall pay one- and one-half times the base rate for water used over the allocation limits.
(2) 
Master-metered multi-family residential customers.
The allocation to a customer billed from a master meter which jointly measures water to multiple permanent residential dwelling units (e.g., apartments, mobile homes) shall be allocated 6,000 gallons per month for each dwelling unit. It shall be assumed that such a customer's meter serves two dwelling units unless the customer notifies the city of a greater number on a form prescribed by the city manager. The city manager shall make his/her best effort to see that such forms are mailed, otherwise provided, or made available to every such customer. If, however, a customer does not receive such a form, it shall be the customer's responsibility to go to the city offices to complete and sign the form claiming more than two (2) dwelling units. A dwelling unit may be claimed under this provision whether it is occupied or not. New customers may claim more dwelling units at the time of applying for water service on the form prescribed by the city manager. If the number of dwelling units served by a master meter is reduced, the customer shall notify the city in writing within two (2) days. In prescribing the method for claiming more than two (2) dwelling units, the city manager shall adopt methods to ensure the accuracy of the claim. Any person who knowingly, recklessly, or with criminal negligence falsely reports the number of dwelling units served by a master meter or fails to timely notify the city of a reduction in the number of persons in a household shall be fined not less than $200.00. Customers billed from a master meter under this provision shall pay one- and one-half times the base rate for water used over the allocation limits.
(3) 
Commercial customers.
(A) 
A monthly water usage allocation shall be established by the city manager, or his/her designee, for each nonresidential commercial customer other than an industrial customer who uses water for processing purposes. The non-residential customer's allocation shall be approximately 75% percent of the customer's usage for corresponding month's billing period for the previous 12 months. If the customer's billing history is shorter than 12 months, the monthly average for the period for which there is a record shall be used for any monthly period for which no history exists. The city manager shall make his/her best effort to see that notice of each non-residential customer's allocation is mailed to such customer. If, however, a customer does not receive such notice, it shall be the customer's responsibility to contact the city to determine the allocation. Upon request of the customer or at the initiative of the city manager, the allocation may be reduced or increased if;
(i) 
The designated period does not accurately reflect the customer's normal water usage.
(ii) 
One nonresidential customer agrees to transfer part of its allocation to another nonresidential customer.
(iii) 
Other objective evidence demonstrates that the designated allocation is inaccurate under present conditions.
(B) 
A customer may appeal an allocation established hereunder to the city council. Nonresidential commercial customers shall pay one- and one-half times the base rate for water used over the allocation limits.
(4) 
Industrial customers.
(A) 
A monthly water usage allocation shall be established by the city manager, or his/her designee, for each industrial customer which uses water for processing purposes. The industrial customer's allocation shall be approximately 90% percent of the customer's water usage baseline. Ninety (90) days after the initial imposition of the allocation for industrial customers, the industrial customer's allocation shall be further reduced to 85% percent of the customer's water usage baseline. The industrial customer's water usage baseline will be computed on the average water usage for the 12-month period ending prior to the date of implementation of stage 2 of the plan. If the industrial water customer's billing history is shorter than 12 months, the monthly average for the period for which there is a record shall be used for any monthly period for which no billing history exists. The city manager shall make his/her best effort to see that notice of each industrial customer's allocation is mailed to such customer. If, however, a customer does not receive such notice, it shall be the customer's responsibility to contact the city to determine the allocation, and the allocation shall be fully effective notwithstanding the lack of receipt of written notice. Upon request of the customer or at the initiative of the city manager, the allocation may be reduced or increased;
(i) 
If the designated period does not accurately reflect the customer's normal water usage because the customer had shut down a major processing unit for repair or overhaul during the period.
(ii) 
The customer has added or is in the process of adding significant additional processing capacity.
(iii) 
The customer has shut down or significantly reduced the production of a major processing unit.
(iv) 
The customer has previously implemented significant permanent water conservation measures such that the ability to further reduce usage is limited.
(v) 
The customer agrees to transfer part of its allocation to another industrial customer.
(vi) 
If other objective evidence demonstrates that the designated allocation is inaccurate under present conditions.
(B) 
A customer may appeal an allocation established hereunder to the city council. Industrial customers shall pay one- and one-half times the base rate for water used over the allocation limits.
(Ordinance 2019-08, ex. A, adopted 6/4/19; Ordinance 2024-07 adopted 4/2/2024)
(a) 
The city manager may grant temporary variances for existing water uses otherwise prohibited under this drought contingency plan to a customer if one or more of the following conditions are met:
(1) 
Failure to grant such a variance would cause an emergency condition adversely affecting health, sanitation, or fire safety for the public or the person requesting the variance.
(2) 
Compliance with this plan cannot be accomplished due to technical or other limitations.
(3) 
Alternative methods that achieve the same level of reduction in water use can be implemented.
(b) 
Variances shall be granted or denied at the discretion of the city manager. All petitions for variances should be in writing and should include the following information:
(1) 
Name and address of petitioner(s).
(2) 
Purpose of water use.
(3) 
Specific provisions from which relief is requested.
(4) 
Detailed statement of the adverse effect of the provision from which relief is requested.
(5) 
Description of the relief requested.
(6) 
Period for which the variance is sought.
(7) 
Alternative measures will be taken to reduce water use.
(8) 
Other pertinent information.
(Ordinance 2019-08, ex. A, adopted 6/4/19; Ordinance 2024-07 adopted 4/2/2024)
(a) 
No person shall knowingly or intentionally allow the use of water from the city for residential, commercial, industrial, agricultural, governmental, or any other purpose in a manner contrary to any provision of this plan, or in an amount in excess of that permitted by the drought response stage in effect at the time pursuant to action taken by the city manager, or his/her designee, in accordance with provisions of this plan.
(b) 
Any person who violates this plan is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction shall be punished by a fine of not less than one hundred dollars ($100.00) and not more than five hundred dollars ($500.00). Each day that one or more of the provisions in this plan is violated shall constitute a separate offense. If a person is convicted of three or more distinct violations of this plan, the city manager shall, upon due notice to the customer, be authorized to discontinue water service to the premises where such violations occur. Services discontinued under such circumstances shall be restored only upon payment of a reconnection charge, hereby established at $500.00, and any other costs incurred by the city in discontinuing service. In addition, suitable assurance must be given to the city manager that the same action shall not be repeated while the plan is in effect. Compliance with this plan may also be sought through injunctive relief in the district court.
(c) 
Any person, including a person classified as a water customer of the city, in apparent control of the property where a violation occurs or originates shall be presumed to be the violator, and proof that the violation occurred on the person's property shall constitute a rebuttable presumption that the person in apparent control of the property committed the violation, but any such person shall have the right to show that he/she did not commit the violation. Parents shall be presumed to be responsible for violations of their minor children and proof that a violation, committed by a child, occurred on property within the parents' control shall constitute a rebuttable presumption that the parent committed the violation, but any such parent may be excused if he/she proves that he/she had previously directed the child not to use the water as it was used in violation of this plan and that the parent could not have reasonably known of the violation.
(d) 
Any city police officer, or code enforcement officer, may issue a citation to a person he/she reasonably believes to be in violation of this article. The citation shall be prepared in duplicate and shall contain the name and address of the alleged violator, if known, the offense charged, and shall direct him/her to appear in the municipal court on the date shown on the citation for which the date shall not be less than three (3) days nor more than five (5) days from the date the citation was issued. The alleged violator shall be served a copy of the citation. Service of the citation shall be complete upon delivery of the citation to the alleged violator, to an agent or employee of a violator, or to a person over fourteen (14) years of age who is a member of the violator's immediate family or is a resident of the violator's residence. The alleged violator shall appear in municipal court to enter a plea of guilty or not guilty for the violation of this plan. If the alleged violator fails to appear in municipal court, a warrant for his/her arrest may be issued. A summons to appear may be issued in lieu of an arrest warrant. These cases shall be expedited and given preferential setting in municipal court before all other cases.
(Ordinance 2019-08, ex. A, adopted 6/4/19; Ordinance 2024-07 adopted 4/2/2024)
(a) 
The city is located within the Region C water planning area. A copy of the water conservation and drought contingency plan was given to the chair of the Region C Water Planning Group (RCWPG) and Tarrant Regional Water District (TRWD).
(b) 
The city's water conservation and drought contingency plan generally mirrors TRWD's plan; therefore, the city will respond appropriately to reductions in the TRWD water supply.
(Ordinance 2019-08, ex. A, adopted 6/4/19; Ordinance 2024-07 adopted 4/2/2024)
As required by TCEQ rules, the city will review this drought contingency plan every five years, beginning in 2011. The plan will be updated as appropriate based on new or updated information. As the plan is reviewed and subsequently updated, a copy of the revised drought contingency plan will be submitted to the TCEQ, TRWD and the RCWPG for their records.
(Ordinance 2019-08, ex. A, adopted 6/4/19; Ordinance 2024-07 adopted 4/2/2024)
The guidelines for a water conservation plan require an entity to set 5- and 10-year goals for water conservation. The goals, which are non-enforceable, must be in a measurable form of gpcd (gallons per capita per day) usage. The setting of the goals should be based on identifying water conservation strategies that the city can successfully implement and assigning an anticipated water savings value to the strategy.
(1) 
Schedule for implementing the plan.
(A) 
The city tests for inaccurate meters and has a replacement plan for water meters over 10 years old. The 5-year goal is to have 50% of all meters reading +/- 5% accurate and 100% at this level of efficiency in 10 years.
(B) 
Regular in-house water audits will be conducted annually with immediate steps taken to correct identified losses.
(C) 
The city will work to identify and replace aged infrastructure which hinders efficiency through line loss and corrosion, both on the supply and distribution systems. Our 5-year goal is to replace 1 mile of depreciated line and related infrastructure and 2 miles within 10 years.
(D) 
The city will conduct educational and informational programs for distribution to all customers related to freshwater issues, encouraging conservation and increased efficiency for consumption. This will be completed by use of the city website and the quarterly newsletter.
(2) 
Method of tracking and implementing the plan to achieve target and goals.
(A) 
The city's record management system allows for the ability to monitor on a daily reporting system: water levels, water pumped, treated, and released this system allows for the review of information for weekly, monthly, and annual data.
(B) 
The city will maintain logs and records for meter testing, calibration, and replacement, and for visual inspections of main fittings and connections.
(C) 
Records will be maintained relating to replacement of meters, line and leak repair, and construction of new infrastructure.
(Ordinance 2019-08, ex. A, adopted 6/4/19; Ordinance 2024-07 adopted 4/2/2024)