WICHITA, Kan. (AP) Even as Wichita recovers from two big storms that left more than a foot of snow, city leaders are discussing how to respond to looming water shortages.
The Wichita City Council on Tuesday began considering water conservation measures that could be expensive and controversial. The city says Cheney Reservoir, which provides 60 percent of its water, would dry up by mid-2015 if the drought persists. That would mean the city wouldn’t have enough water to meet demand.
The Wichita Eagle reports outdoor water use would be the biggest target. One proposal would increase water rates by 113 percent for users who exceed their average winter water use.
Other recommendations include an education campaign and a $5 million upgrade to the city’s Equus Beds well field near Halstead.
