4S Ranch water restrictions lifted and rates lowered

4S Ranch residents and their fellow Olivenhain Municipal Water District customers will see their water rates decline while their water use restrictions simultaneously lessen.

Olivenhain’s board of directors unanimously decided on July 20 to move the district from Level 2 water supply shortage status to Level 1, effective immediately. In addition, Level 2 water rates will decline to Level 1 rates starting with customers’ July 31 bills. The latter lowers the cost per unit of water retroactive to June.

However, they are being reminded that wasting potable water is prohibited by the state.

“(Olivenhain) customers are to be commended for their conservation efforts,” said Larry Watt, board treasurer. “Residents slashed their water use by 25 percent, cumulatively from June 2015 through June 2016 compared to 2013 usage, by scheduling free water use evaluations, taking advantage of rebates for water efficient devices, and making lasting lifestyle changes suitable for our coastal desert community.”

“Lowering water rates to the same level as the current conservation requirement is the right thing to do in fairness to our customers,” said board President Ed Sprague. “The State Water Resources Control Board has allowed flexibility in local water supply planning, the region currently has three years of water supply even if drought conditions continue, and customers are changing their water use habits so Level 2 water rates designed to achieve significant reductions are not required at this time.”

Going from Level 2 to Level 1 status means Olivenhain customers may irrigate their landscaping as much as they deem necessary and at the times they wish. However, they cannot allow runoff and must wait at least 48 hours after measurable rainfall, officials said.

Other state restrictions that remain in effect include not using potable water in decorative water features that do not recirculate water or to wash sidewalks and driveways, plus not using a hose without a shut-off nozzle when washing vehicles.

Despite Olivenhain’s easing of restrictions, customers are being advised to use wise water practices. This includes irrigating at the “most advantageous time,” which officials said is before 8 a.m. and after 6 p.m. to prevent water loss from evaporation or wind. For other conservation tips and details on water saving device rebates, go to olivenhain.com.