City seeks public input during phase two of Outside Water Use By-law review
Guelph, On, April 16, 2013 – The City of Guelph is inviting residents to participate in one of two upcoming community forums during phase two of its Outside Water Use By-law review.
The first community forum takes place Wednesday, April 24 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Evergreen Seniors Community Centre, located at 683 Woolwich St. The second meeting will be Thursday, April 25 from 7-9 p.m. at the Victoria Park East Golf Club, located at 1096 Victoria Road, South.
The business community is also invited to provide feedback during a business roundtable being held April 25 from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Victoria Park East Golf Club.
The Outside Water Use By-law and program has been in place in Guelph for more than 10 years. During prolonged periods of drought in 2012, the City implemented enhanced water use restrictions under the By-law to ensure there was enough water to support both the needs of the City and the local environment.
At the time, residents and businesses expressed some concern over aspects of the By-law, including permissible water uses during extreme periods of drought.
In response to those concerns, the City held two public meetings and one business roundtable in February to discuss successes, explore aspects of the By-law and program that are working well, and examine opportunities for refinement that could help the City better manage Guelph’s water resources.
The feedback received during phase one has helped staff frame a proposed revised by-law. Some of the proposed changes include:
- allowed dates and times for watering lawns and gardens in all program levels
- greater distinction between program levels
- increased enforcement and fines
For reference, a complete summary of public feedback received through phase one is available at guelph.ca/owureview.