LAKEPORT >> Urgency ordinances for two water systems overseen by Lake County Special Districts were lifted by the county’s Board of Supervisors following the recent rains. The board agreed to this measure during their last regular meeting before the holiday break.
The Finley and Kelseyville water systems, also known as County Service Areas No. 6 and No. 3, respectively, were placed on the urgency ordinance on July 22 when “well levels began to drop and water usage was escalating,” according to Lake County Special Districts Compliance Coordinator Jan Coppinger. Additionally, the urgency ordinance ensured that minimum drinking water needs were met by the system.
Because of a recent decrease in temperatures and consumption, there is no need for the urgency ordinance.
“Analysis of the production, consumption and conditions of the wells indicates that it is not necessary at this time,” Coppinger said.
Both water systems will remain in stage one of the drought management plan, which calls for voluntary consumption.
“If at any time it appears there may be a threat to the water system’s ability to provide minimum drinking water needs to the community, we will return with a new urgency ordinance,” Coppinger said.
Other water systems under special districts’ jurisdiction are still under an urgency ordinance. Furthermore, the state’s restrictions on water usage and recommendations for reduced water use are still in effect.
The board unanimously approved the lifting of the urgency ordinances.
In other water related business, the board also unanimously approved continuing the county’s proclamation of a local emergency because of drought conditions.
Every 30 days the board is required by state law to continue the emergency proclamation if the county is to seek funding “specifically designated for drought relief purposes.”
According to Lake County Emergency Services Manager Marisa Chilafoe, “though our current conditions have improved with recent rains, there is much work to be done to prepare for another drought year.”
Approximately 150 percent of average annual rainfall is needed to end the current drought, Chilafoe said.
At both the county and state level, preparations for another drought year are considered in order.
“Winter weather forecasts indicate below average conditions,” Chilafoe continued. “Even with normal precipitation and snow pack levels, which are not anticipated, conditions will not fully recharge reservoir, well and lake levels for the following summer.”
