The city of Phoenix says it will enter Stage 2 of its drought management plan in January, due to upcoming cuts in Colorado River water deliveries. City officials said customers can continue to count on a safe and reliable water supply.
The city announced the move in a statement on Nov. 10. Phoenix has been in Stage 1 (Water Alert) since June 2022. According to officials, the city will rely more heavily on backup supplies. These include regional water partnerships, renewable backup sources, groundwater recovery systems and water stored underground.
The most significant change for residents is expected to be a temporary drought fee for customers who use large amounts of water. According to media reports, it will be $2.10 for each unit used above a monthly threshold. One unit is 748 gallons (about 2,831 liters). For households, the threshold is 20 units a month, while for commercial and industrial customers it is scaled accordingly.
During a city council meeting on Nov. 10, officials said 84% of individual customers will not feel the fee at all. Revenue is estimated at about $40 million. It is intended to fund water-efficiency audits, incentive programs and new sources of supply. Those who stay within the threshold will pay nothing extra. The city itself will also have to pay the fee if it exceeds its own limit.
Stage 2 itself does not require restrictions on water deliveries. The city will ask residents to voluntarily reduce their water use and says it will expand financial assistance for customers who take steps to conserve water. Residents are advised, among other things, to check their plumbing for leaks, improve irrigation efficiency and choose plants suited to the desert climate.
About 40% of Phoenix’s current drinking water supply comes from the Colorado River through the Central Arizona Project. Beginning in 2027, Arizona is expected to receive significantly less water from that source. The Phoenix Water Services Department serves about 1.7 million residents.
Source: AZFamily
KN
