Las Vegas Sun

November 10, 2009

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Editorial: Stick to the plan

Monday, Sept. 8, 2003 | 8:20 a.m.

The success of the Southern Nevada Water Authority's drought management plan depends on the resolve of local governments. While the water authority wrote the plan, the county and cities are responsible for administering it within their jurisdictions. This means they have the power to grant exemptions.

Last week the Las Vegas City Council fielded three requests for exemptions -- one from downtown's Fremont Street Experience and two from office complexes. They wanted to keep their ornamental fountains flowing. As written, the plan exempts only the large, artistic fountains on the Strip -- because they contribute to the valley's "core economic function." It's obvious to us the tiny fountains brought to the City Council for exemptions do not qualify. Nevertheless, the City Council postponed its answer for 30 days.

Only Mayor Oscar Goodman firmly opposed the requests, foreseeing the plan becoming a charade if these kinds of exemptions are granted. We agree with Goodman. Local governments must be strict in enforcing the drought management plan. If they're not, the goal of reducing water use by 25 percent will not be met.

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