Water violations a hot topic at Hays Police Department

By KARI BLURTON
Hays Post

Police officers are citing more residents with water use violations lately than is normal for this time of year, said Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler.

What makes this year different is the persistent drought increased water conservation efforts.

In February, Hays city commissioners moved the city from a water watch to a water warning, which restricts outside water use, such as watering lawns and washing cars, between the hours of 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

“The key for us is to educate people,” Scheibler said. “We have had a change in watering times so (officers) are going to be out in full force to remind and educate.

“But also this is serious because of the drought, and we will have to take enforcement action,” Scheibler added. “People should not expect multiple warnings this summer. We just can’t afford it. There is not enough water out there to be wasting.”

Scheibler said his department is serious about water conservation and urges residents to think to the long term.

“This is about the future of my community,” he said. “It is truly not about whether or not I have a green grass this summer. Its’s about whether or not my children will have water in the future.”

Scheibler said an initial offense of the outside water restrictions will result a warning. If a water violation happens a second time, a $50 dollar fine will be issued. A third water violation results in a $200 fine, then a $250 fine for every subsequent. City officials also have the authority to shut off water supplies.

Scheibler said the city will be on the lookout for people who are watering lawns or washing cars within the restricted times and also will be looking for water wasting.

“If you are watering your lawn all night long and water is running down the streets, that is going to be a violation and we are going to have to address that,” he said.

For more information on city rules and tips on water conservation, visit the City of Hays website.