Jackson sets trigger points for irrigation restrictions and master-meter water rates

Jackson Town Council, in its March 16 workshop, reviewed proposed Title 13 utility-code amendments that would (1) add a new “master meter” residential water-rate structure for large developments and (2) adopt a permanent irrigation (water-efficiency) ordinance with phased watering restrictions. The workshop packet frames the changes as tools to improve cost recovery and administrative efficiency for single-connection developments, and to reduce outdoor water use when the system is strained or drought conditions emerge. See: Town Council Workshop Agenda Packet.

For master-metered developments, staff proposed keeping the same tiered rate prices as single-family residential customers but scaling the gallons in each tier by the number of “active taps” in the development. The packet’s example shows residential tiers (e.g., 0–2,000 gallons for Tier 1) multiplied by 10 active taps to set master-meter tiers (0–20,000 gallons for Tier 1), with higher tiers similarly scaled. The aim, per the packet, is to preserve conservation price signals while recognizing multi-home service through one meter. See: Town Council Workshop Agenda Packet.

For irrigation restrictions, staff outlined three phases. Phase 1 would be voluntary restrictions during irrigation season, with odd/even-day overnight watering windows (6 p.m. to 9 a.m.) based on the last whole number in an address. Phase 2 would be mandatory restrictions triggered when Zone 3 maximum daily demand “routinely exceeds a buffer of 1,500 gallons per minute” for more than one hour daily on five non-consecutive days within a seven-day period (or other system-capacity causes). Phase 3 would tighten the schedule further—two watering days per week per address parity—if, after Phase 2 begins, Zone 3 demand continues to exceed the 1,500 gpm buffer over a two-week period (or other system-capacity causes). The packet’s suggested motion would direct staff to return with draft ordinances for first reading, with an effective date tied to the broader Title 13 amendment package. See: Town Council Workshop Agenda Packet.