By Kevin Jefferies
Commerce – A reminder that Commerce has entered Phase 2 of its Drought Contingency Plan. The plan restricts outdoor watering to the hour of 8pm to 10am. The city hopes to see an overall reduction of 10% in water usage in Commerce.
Some other restriction in place under Phase 2:
Washing of vehicles or filling of pools and hot tubs is prohibited except between 8pm and 10am.
Ornamental fountains or ponds cannot be operated except when necessary to support aquatic life.
The washing down of any hard surface area, such as sidewalks or driveways, or washing down buildings except for fire prevention.
Flushing gutters or otherwise allowing water to accumulate in any gutter or street.
Failure to fix known water leaks.
The drought is affecting all of Northeast Texas, some areas more than others. Wolfe City is struggling to provide water for its citizens and Rockwall has enacted fines up to $2,000 for repeat violations of water restrictions. Other areas even limit serving water at restaurants unless explicitly requested.
Commerce officials plan to inform the public of the mandatory water restrictions, warn violators, and then begin issuing citations.