In a recent city council meeting, officials discussed the pressing issue of water conservation amid ongoing drought conditions. The meeting began with a prayer expressing gratitude for the community and a call for rain, highlighting the urgency of the situation.

Council members unanimously approved the meeting agenda, which included a significant presentation by Kyle Mangus on the Derby water conservation plan. Mangus detailed the city's historical reliance on water sources, noting that Derby transitioned from self-sourced water to purchasing from Wichita in 2001 due to increasing demand. The current contract with Wichita extends through 2043, with plans for a new water treatment facility aimed at improving efficiency.

As drought conditions worsen, Wichita has moved to phase two of its water conservation plan, prompting Derby to follow suit. This phase includes mandatory restrictions on outdoor watering, limiting it to once a week. Mangus emphasized the importance of education and communication with residents regarding these changes, as many are unfamiliar with such regulations.

The council is actively working to inform the public through various channels, including updates on the city website and robocalls to residents. The focus remains on reducing outdoor water usage, particularly during the peak summer months when consumption spikes.

Mangus also addressed concerns about the impact of these restrictions on local businesses, particularly car washes, which are significant water users. While some exemptions exist for food-producing gardens, the primary goal is to conserve water for essential needs.

As the city navigates these challenges, officials are committed to keeping the community informed and engaged in water conservation efforts, recognizing the long-term implications of their decisions on future generations.