Water-usage fines declined in summer
It could be the weather — or, it might just be Tournament Capital residents are a little more conscious about their water use than in the past.
The number of fines handed out to property owners not following seasonal water restrictions has dropped dramatically in the last three summers.
According to the city’s bylaw department, 34 fines were issued this summer, compared to 61 in 2010 and 120 in 2009.
Community and corporate affairs director Len Hrycan said the numbers are proof the city’s overall water-conservation strategy is working.
“I think these numbers are reflecting a much greater degree of both compliance and concern and awareness for the environment,” he said.
Hrycan explained the purpose of introducing the restrictions was to cut down demand on the water system during the peak season of summer.
The city’s water restrictions are in effect each year from May 1 to Aug. 31.
Those contravening the restrictions are subject to a fine of $100 for a first offence and $200 for each subsequent offence.
In May and June, the city handed out 14 tickets.
The lousy weather was being credited with the low number of fines at the time.
The weather turned around in the last half of the summer, with August being the driest in record.
Still, the city gave out just 20 fines in that time.
“From an environmental point of view, what these restrictions have demonstrated is that there is ability for us to reduce our environmental footprint and still maintain what we have come to expect, in terms of our backyards,” Hrycan said.
Though Kamloopsians may be more cautious about their water use, the city indicated the annual restrictions will continue to be in place for years to come.
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