The Town of Osoyoos is taking the next step toward universal water meters in five years, but it is keeping its options open.
After an in-camera meeting Monday, council brought forward to the regular council meeting four motions dealing with water policy.
One motion calls for $125,000 to be set aside each year for the next five years to implement the water metering program with the money coming from water reserves. The remaining funds would come from water fee increases.
Mayor Sue McKortoff said that by including the water metering program as a budget item, it makes it possible to apply for federal and provincial matching grants.
At the same time, if in the future council decides not to proceed with the meters, the funds that have been set aside can be used for other purposes.
“So in other words, we’re not really going to do it for another five years, which gives us time,” said McKortoff. “Just because it’s in the budget doesn’t mean that it has to be used for that. We’ve decided that would be the only sensible way.”
The cost of installing universal water meters is estimated at $2 million. The meters provide an incentive to users to conserve water because those consuming the most pay more than those who conserve.
McKortoff acknowledged that meters have been controversial, based on letters in the Osoyoos Times. She said, however, that other municipalities in the Okanagan have gone to metering.
Other motions prepare the way for alternate-day watering restrictions effective April 15 and for these to be applied also to Irrigation Districts 8 and 9.
The town will also be hiring a “water ambassador” at a cost of about $20,000 to engage in public education for the five months between April and September.
According to budget documents, the water ambassador will visit homes to inform people about water restrictions and provide services such as changing irrigation sprinkler timers.
The ambassador may also perform secondary inspections to make sure restrictions have been followed.
RICHARD McGUIRE
Osoyoos Times
