Water-use restrictions considered on Maui
By HARRY EAGAR
The Maui News
WAILUKU — The County Council Water Policy Committee has unanimously recommended approval of an odd day-even day irrigation restriction ordinance, along with other measures to conserve water on Maui, The Maui News reported today.
If adopted, the rules would apply to all water — from public or private systems, potable and nonpotable — except reclaimed water from the wastewater treatment plants.
"It all comes from the same source, and we are trying to protect the source," said water Chairwoman Michelle Anderson said of her committee's action.
She noted, however, that there are numerous exemptions, for example for farmers. The bill goes to the full council for votes on two readings. If passed and signed by the mayor, it could take effect 30 days after that.
Anderson said she wanted to get the change passed because it is the most immediate thing to be done to deal with the water shortage.
"People always resist change," Anderson said, "but many counties have already adopted similar ordinances, and all of them have adapted to it."
Maui has been far short of normal rainfall for two years, and its county water system is running up against its maximum capacity in most areas. Irrigation is the largest use of water.
The main provision has two parts:
There is no restriction on the amount of water that can be used on watering nights, but the hope is that users will be more careful about both how often and how much they irrigate.
Letting irrigation water run into streets, sidewalks and gutters also will be prohibited.
However, there are exceptions, intended to avoid hardships and inconvenience and to encourage use of more efficient water delivery methods. The exemptions are:
The proposed ordinance also allows for washing cars and boats by householders, as long as they use a hose with a shut-off nozzle.
People who believe they have an extraordinary reason for an exception to the schedule can apply to the director of water supply, case by case.
Violators will be given a notice of violation and warning. A repeated violation within 90 days could result in notice of violation and order, which could include a fine up to $500, multiplied by each day the violation persists.
More Maui News at www.mauinews.com.
