Bessemer City News

Declaration of Stage 3 Water Shortage

Press Release

DECLARATION OF STAGE 3 WATER SHORTAGE
MANDATORY WATER CONSERVATION

On Monday August 11, 2008, the City Manager of Bessemer City issued a Declaration of Stage III Water Shortage for the City of Bessemer City. Because of the recent high temperatures and lack of significant rain, City Manager, Allan Farris, has initiated Stage 3 Water Shortage Guidelines.
According to section 52.34 of the Bessemer City Code of Ordinances, Stage 3 Guidelines, the following restrictions shall apply. In addition to the Stage I voluntary & II guidelines already in effect, it shall be unlawful to use water supplied by the city water system in the following manner:

§ 52.34 STAGE III WATER SHORTAGE CONDITIONS; RESTRICTIONS.

(1) To fill or add any water into any pool.

(2) Use water outside a structure for any use other than an emergency involving a fire.

(3) Fire protection to be maintained by the drafting of ponds, rivers, and the like, wherever possible.

(4) The use of throw-away utensils and plates is encouraged and recommended at all eating establishments.

(5) To operate an evaporative air conditioner which recycles water except during operating hours of business.

(Ord. passed 8-8-88) Penalty, see § 10.99

Further, section 52.36 PENALTIES and DISCONNECTION FOR NONCOMPLIANCE states:

Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 162A-88, service may be temporarily discontinued for willful disregard of this subchapter and a $55 reconnect fee may be imposed before restoration of service. In the event of continued gross noncompliance of this subchapter, removal of the meter will be deemed proper and service will be discontinued and all tap fees and deposits forfeited. Reconnection will only be made by payment of current due amounts, and new tap fees and deposits shall be paid.

The City Manager, Allan Farris, can be reached during business hours at 704-833-0360.
Further, Public Utilities Director, Lee Hayes, can be reached at the 704-833-0390.