Recently the South Coast Water District (SCWD) approved higher rates for water and sewer services for the district which includes Dana Point, South Laguna and parts of San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano. According to a recent article in the Orange County Register, the rate increase will add between $19 and $38 to the monthly bill for the average single-family home, depending on the amount of water usage. Commercial customers can click here to see how the new rates will affect their bill.
SCWD did make an effort to cut costs before they proposed the new water rates, which they outline on their website. In January, they cut their annual operating budget by $1.7 million and completed an Infrastructure Master Plan that will help meet the needs of the community in the most cost-effective ways.
What does this all mean for business?
As rates increase, what can you do to decrease your water usage? The district recommends replacing old toilets and fixing leaky faucets. You can also install aerators to existing faucets that can cut water consumption in half. But most of all, be informed! Did you know that the SCWD held two community forums and a public hearing before the rates changed? Dana Point business owners need to visit the SCWD website to stay informed on opportunities to speak up and be the voice of business. There is more information online that not only keeps you updated on water conservation, but also raises awareness on key water issues and how it affects business. Websites like Save Our H20 or the Association of California Water Agencies can keep you informed on local, statewide and federal water issues. Do you have a go to source for water information? Please share with us in the comments section.
By now you have probably figured out that the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce (@DanaPtChamber) is a tweeting Chamber and there are a lot of great resources on Twitter. One profile that we follow happens to be Association of California Water Agencies (@ACWAwater), the statewide association of public agencies whose 450 members are responsible for most of the water delivered in California. They keep followers updated on how stimulus money is being used in relation to water, water conservation efforts, and how California’s water shortage is affecting different industries.
Thirsty for more?
Interested in hearing it straight from the water source? South Coast Water District Board President Dick Dietmeier will be the keynote speaker at the Dana Point Chamber’s Lunch & Learn on Thursday, July 23. Registration opens at 11:45 a.m. with the program beginning at 12:00 p.m. We invite you to take this opportunity to “get wet” and stay informed on how water affects your business. The cost for Chamber Members is $25 and potential members can attend for $40. For more information or to RSVP for this event, please call the Chamber (949)496-1555 or email kstraine@danapointchamber.com
Lunch & Learn
11:45 am, Thursday, July 23
Doubletree Guest Suites – Doheny Beach, 34402 Pacific Coast Hwy
Members: $25; Potential Members: $40
Kelly Straine
Events Director
Dana Point Chamber Blog 