Watsonville moves to level 2 water restrictions

Watsonville city council voted 6 to 1 Tuesday night to move forward with “Level Two” water restrictions.

Watsonville has enough groundwater, but the city must still comply with the state’s mandate to reduce use by 20 percent in the city.

In order to do that, the city will work to maintain the 12 percent reduction they achieved last year, plus an additional 8 percent reduction.

City staff outlined four primary strategies:

1. Increased education and outreach for all of the City’s water conservation programs.

2. Continuation of the popular turf replacement rebate program including increased program promotion.

3. Retrofit irrigation systems at City parks and facilities.

4. Hire a temporary employee to assist with education and enforcement.

The Watsonville mayor said the city will not fine residents who don’t comply just yet. Instead, they will push more education.