Thank you to those that have signed the petition since the previous update. I would like to urge everyone to continue to share this petition so that we can keep getting more signatures. As we do that, I would suggest that everyone take a close look at their water bill this coming month, even if it scares you. The average home uses approximately 2,000 gallons each time they irrigate their lawn. That equates to 16,000 gallons per month if you water your lawn twice per week. That automatically places many of us in the 3rd billing tier which is $6.51 per 1,000 gallons and that cost is more than double the base rate of $3.09. The scary part is that doesn't even take into account other water usage for inside the house. Another 4,000 gallons on top of the 16,000 gallons for irrigation will place you in the highest billing tier of $9.44 per 1,000 gallons.

There are ways that you can reduce your own consumption even when it comes to irrigation. My suggestion would be to adjust the time for each zone to 20 minutes and to cap any sprinkler heads that are not needed. Most commonly, the sprinkler heads that water your bushes are not necessary once the bushes are established. Another suggestion is to periodically check your sprinklers to make sure they are working properly and that there are no leaks. 

While conservation is important and we should do what we can toward that goal, St. Johns County is still charging far too much for water. Furthermore, the rates that most of the county pays are almost double what residents pay that are serviced in Ponte Vedra. We need to continue to pressure our elected officials so that they hear and understand our concerns. I have been in contact with several of the County Commissioners and I will post any positive developments as they are conveyed to me. Thank you for your support.