As announced by the Water Commissioners last week, Long Beach, like LA and much of Southern California is experiencing a major water shortage. The City has asked residents to take extreme measures to conserve.
Tonight on the Council agenda, Vice-Mayor Lowenthal and Councilmember Schipske have two agenda items that try to address the issue. I have posted both of the items below.
From Vice-Mayor Lowenthal:
Recommendation: In order to better understand the City of Long Beach’s needs for water and to plan for drought preparedness in future years, I would like to request (1) a report back from the Long Beach Water Department on water usage and conservation measures; additional incentives and education efforts that can be offered to reduce water usage, possibly in partnership with the City of Long Beach or environmental nonprofits; a comparison of what other cities are doing to support water efficiency, (2) a report from the City Manager on water reclamation efforts in public and private buildings, including the feasibility of expanding such efforts to all new construction, (3) request increased usage of California native plants and increased usage of reclaimed water at all City facilities, including parks, parkways and libraries.
From Vice-Mayor Lowenthal and Councilmember Schipske:
Recommendation:
Receive a report from the Water Department on conservation and education measures being implemented throughout the City, including information and resources being distributed to residents and businesses. Also, receive a report from the Parks, Recreation and Marine Department on water irrigation efficiency and conservation measures.
Request City Attorney to advise Council on an appropriate water conservation ordinance, which would place mandatory restrictions on certain water use activities and prohibit water waste.