CITY OF GIDDINGS ENACTS CRITICAL WATER SHORTAGE CONDITIONS

  

The City of Giddings has elevated water restrictions for the public as its water shortage reaches critical levels.

Earlier this month, one of the city’s four water wells became inoperable, and plans were put into place to drill a new well. 

As the month has progressed, restrictions have increased from voluntary to mandatory and now – as of today (Monday) – include the prohibition of sprinkler systems.  Only handheld hoses, buckets or drip irrigation can be used, and only on designated watering days between the hours of 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. and between 8 p.m. to midnight.

Addresses ending in an even number must limit their irrigation to Sundays and Thursdays.  Addresses ending in an odd number can only perform irrigation on Saturdays and Wednesdays. 

The washing of vehicles is now limited to commercial car washes and service stations and to what is considered to be in “the immediate interest of public health, safety and welfare”.  Vehicle washing cannot take place outside the hours of 6-10 a.m. and 6-10 p.m. 

Using ornamental fountains or ponds for aesthetic or scenic purposes is not allowed, unless they are equipped with a recirculation system or they are needed to support aquatic life.

The city is also not approving any applications for new, additional or expanded water service connections, meters, service lines, pipeline extensions, mains or water service facilities.