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Kingsburg Advances Water Management with Rate Study and Landscaping Ordinance
The Kingsburg City Council took two major steps at its March 19 meeting to improve local water management and infrastructure, approving a comprehensive water rate study and formally adopting the state’s water-efficient landscaping ordinance.
Both decisions aim to prepare the city for rising costs, regulatory compliance, and the long-term sustainability of its water system.
Updated Water Rates Coming
Council approved the findings of a new water rate study and set a public hearing date for May 21, 2025, under the requirements of Proposition 218.
Key changes under the new rate structure include:
- Phase-out of the free water allotment (11,000 gallons per month) currently included in the base rate
- A tiered rate system based on meter size, with higher fixed charges for larger meters
- Initial consideration of optional drought rates to be activated in water emergencies (though Council ultimately voted to remove these from the plan)
The changes are designed to ensure the city can continue maintaining and upgrading its water system while meeting state standards. Updated rates are expected to take effect following the Proposition 218 hearing.
Landscaping Ordinance Adopted
Council also voted to formally adopt the Model Water Efficiency Landscape Ordinance (MWELO), bringing Kingsburg into full alignment with the state’s requirements for water-wise landscaping in new developments.
While city staff had already been informally applying the standards, official adoption was needed to meet state expectations and ensure consistency in the review of future housing and commercial projects.
The ordinance applies to landscaping for:
- New developments and large remodels
- City-funded projects
- Projects using dedicated irrigation meters
Adopting MWELO codifies Kingsburg’s commitment to drought-tolerant landscaping and efficient irrigation, both of which are increasingly critical as the state continues to face water availability challenges.
Looking Ahead
With both policies in place, Kingsburg positions itself to manage water more efficiently at both the household and community-wide levels. City officials expect these changes will help balance infrastructure costs, reduce waste, and improve long-term resilience in the face of regulatory and environmental pressures.
Francisco Ramirez is the founder of Kings Network News and creator of Kings Network Business, a platform that blends business networking, community support, and social media to uplift local entrepreneurs.
As a former Mayor of Hanford, California, he launched the Winter Wonderland event and brings over 20 years of business consulting experience. He is also a motivational speaker, life coach, strategist, author, podcaster, and skilled web and graphic designer.
He created The Invisible Kid: Courage to Succeed, a seminar on self-esteem and anti-bullying that has inspired youth across the region. Through media and consulting, Francisco empowers others to lead, grow, and make an impact.
