Many residents and businesses in parts of Alameda and Contra Costa Counties face immediate water rationing, after the East Bay Municipal Utility District declared a water emergency this week. District managers say two consecutive years of dry weather and this year’s dry spring have left the district, which serves 1.3 million residents, with only two-thirds of its normal supply. The plan requires a 19% reduction of water usage for private homes and a 5 to 30 % reduction for some businesses. Those who do not comply may face fines and reduced services. Many residents are concerned that those who have already made water conservation efforts will be unfairly penalized. The board is considering a variety of pricing schemes. There will be a public hearing on July 8 regarding rate increases.
With:
Mike Taugher.
Airdate: May 16, 2008.
Additional Resources
EBMUD adopts water-rationing rules
Carolyn Jones, Chronicle
East Bay begins water rationing
Kelly Zito, Chronicle
Water rationing imposed on East Bay
Mike Taugher, Contra Costa Times
California drought fears mount
Samantha Young, Associated Press
