After three consecutive years of drought in southern Alberta, reservoir levels are well below normal and the province remains in water shortage management stage four out of five.
The economic standing policy committee heard a presentation on the city’s water conservation plan and strategy on April 11, which aims to cut water use by 20 per cent by 2030.
The city says it has programs underway to install more water efficient fixtures in public buildings and it is working to centralize irrigation controls.
Scaling water rates are being considered to reduce usage. Households using more water would pay higher rates and the city says if this is enacted, it would be designed to minimize financial impacts of average consumers.
“Other municipalities have scaled water rates. They have been successful in changing and managing water consumption behaviour,” says Joel Sanchez, director of infrastructure services. “Even with the adjusted rates, Lethbridge would remain among the lowest in Alberta and the lower percentile among municipalities in Canada.”
The city may also look at rebates and incentives for things like rain barrels and water efficient and landscaping.
Any changes to the city’s water bylaw will have to go through council.