A study of Richfield's irrigation water system has been ordered by the City Council in an effort to improve delivery to people who use irrigation water on their lots.
Officials estimate only about half the residents who have irrigation water available use it, while residents in the city's northwest and southwest sectors have never had the opportunity. Although water rights for these newer areas were purchased with properties, distribution ditches were not provided.Residents without irrigation ditches use the much more expensive culinary water for lawns and gardens.
The City Council's action followed a meeting where water users registered complaints about the irrigation system.
One resident criticized the water delivery management. Another said irrigation ditches often contain more water that can be used while still another complained that "some streets run over and others can't get enough water."
Water users became concerned when Mayor Jay C. Andersen announced the city would receive only about half of its normal irrigation water allotment because of drought conditions.
While water schedules have been distributed to 624 homes, many don't use the irrigation water for lawns while others don't have gardens. Andersen said a more accurate count of water users will be determined from the study.
The city spends about $9,000 each year to deliver irrigation water. The previous city administration imposed a user fee to help absorb those costs, but objections were so vocal, mostly from senior citizens, that council members rescinded the action.
It was again suggested at the meeting that those using irrigation water pay for its delivery.
It was further suggested that the council consider a pressurized irrigation system similar to those that have been constructed in recent years by smaller communities in Sevier County. That would likely entail increased taxes, however.
Councilman Paul Lyman estimated such a system would cost between $4 million and $5 million.
A completion date for the study was not announced.