Drought Ordinance to be Reviewed Wednesday

The Bakersfield City Council will review an emergency ordinance on Wednesday that, if approved, will slash how often residents can water their lawns and landscaping.

Art Chianello, the water resources manager for the city of Bakersfield, says he’s optimistic the city can slash consumption by 36 percent – which is what the State Water Resources Control Board is outlining in newly-proposed mandates revealed over the weekend.

“I think it can be done, really, just on outside irrigation, without having to affect much of – if, at all – how people use water indoors,” he said.

The ordinance calls for a three-day-a-week watering schedule.

Wasco, Shafter and Oildale are also facing the maximum target if the state board approves the regulations next month.

– Anthony Pollreisz