By A city-issued notice outlining Level 1 water restrictions for residents is due to a mechanical problem that is making it difficult to keep up with water use within the city.
That restriction notice was issued Wednesday, June 26.
Public Works Director Stu Nelson said two pumps that help get water from the treatment plant to the city have failed. Nelson said this isn’t preventing the city from getting water to its residents, but it is slowing down the process, and it’s during a time when water consumption is higher than normal.
Stu Nelson
Nelson said heavy use of sprinkler systems overnight draws down the water towers, and the city system is struggling to catch up.
While public works employees work to get the necessary replacement parts to repair or replace the pumps, Nelson said more water restrictions have been put in place. They are above and beyond the regular restrictions that prohibit watering between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m.
The new restrictions call for running irrigation systems on alternating days. Those with even-numbered addresses run systems on even-numbered days and odd-numbers addresses on odd days. No systems should operate on the 31st day of the month.
Those same restrictions apply to washing vehicles at a residence, though not to commercial car washes.
Washing of driveways, sidewalks, buildings and other surfaces should be done before 11 a.m. or after 5 p.m.
Violators subject to fine
Nelson said the Aberdeen Police Department will enforce the water restrictions. The first violation will result in a warning, but residents will face fines for repeat infractions.
The fine for a first offense is $50 with subsequent violations $100. By the third offense, Nelson said, the city reserves the right to disconnect water service.
“We understand a lot of people have sprinkler systems set up,” he said. “There will be a little bit of a learning curve for everybody.”