Confusion over water restrictions; some violations noted

GAINESVILLE - Ah, confusion, thy name is "water restrictions."

The City of Gainesville has received a number of calls lately from people wanting to know when and if could water. The new restrictions imposed by the state Wednesday give local governments the option of implementing stricter regulations and some, such as Forsyth County, have. But, Gainesville is operating under the state guidelines.

They are:

*NO WATERING ON FRIDAYS

*Odd-numbered addresses may water only on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. NO WATERING FROM 10AM-4PM

*Even-numbered addresses may water only on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays. NO WATERING FROM 10AM-4PM

VIOLATIONS NOTED

Meanwhile, in the last few days the Public Utilities Department has mailed 40 letters to customers who were seen violating outdoor watering restrictions.

Environmental Monitoring Coordinator, Brian Wiley, said most of the letters were sent to residential customers.

"We take these violations very seriously and we're working around the clock to ensure that Gainesville has an ample water supply," Wiley said. "The first time a violation occurs the property owner receives a warning letter. The second violation results in a $35 surcharge to the customers' water bill. The third offense results in disconnection, a $200 fine, and a reconnection fee."

For current information on local and/or state imposed restrictions contact the Public Utilities Department at (770)535-6878 and select option number six for up-to-date details or go to the city's Web site (see link below).