PWD Backs Gov. Brown’s Call to Action for Drought Measures

The following is a press announcement from the Palmdale Water District:

PALMDALE – The Palmdale Water District is supporting Governor Jerry Brown’s call to action on the State’s drought emergency and is asking for 20 percent conservation statewide.

The driest year in recorded state history was in 2013 and drought conditions are not over yet. Throughout the State, California’s rivers and reser- voirs are below their record lows. The snow packs in Northern California are 20 percent of normal average for this time of year.

PWD and other water agencies in Southern California get water from the State Water Project (the California Aqueduct). This year is a dif- ficult year and water supplies from the State are not reliable. Although PWD plans in advance and has made sure our customers have water, we all must do our very best to make every drop count. This means changing habits like fixing indoor and outdoor leaks immediately, turning water off while brushing your teeth or washing vegetables, and changing irrigation watering schedules as the weather changes. Be water wise!

Take advantage of PWD’s rebates: 1.28 gallons per flush toilets, washing machines, MP rotators, smart controllers, commercial urinals, and the “Cash for Grass” program. Call Linda for more information 661-456-1001. Find rebate applications and conservation tips online at www.palmdalewater.org.

It’s a drought – turn it off, and save it for later!

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The Palmdale Water District also reminded its customers of its new rate increase:

RATE CHANGE BEGINS IN MARCH

The Board of Directors of the Palmdale Water District approved the 2 percent rate increase at the January 22, 2014 Board Meeting. The 2 percent rate increase is a reduction from the previously approved increase of 8 percent. The increase represents an average $1.15 per month for a single-family resident and will start in March.

Revenue created by the increase in water rates will go directly towards replacement of equipment, increased cost in utilities and maintenance of facilities – specifically replacement of aging water meters and well rehabilitation.

MINIMIZING THE EFFECT ON CUSTOMERS

The inflation rate of 8.6 percent from 2009-2013 is more than PWD’s rate changes of 8 percent in the same period.

PWD’s rate changes are 31 percent below the approved 2009 Water Rate Plan PWD water rates are less than water rates in West Palmdale.