Clovis residents see huge water fines

Residents in Clovis are seeing steep fines after failing to meet Governor Jerry Brown’s mandatory water cutbacks. In August, city officials issued $227,882 in fines for water wasters. More than $162,812 in fines were issued to residents, while commercial and industry users were fined $65,070.

When a resident fails to meet the mandatory 36 percent cuts in water consumption, they are issued a $25 fine for their first offense and $50 for their second offense. In August, more than 1,900 customers were issued the $25 fine and more than 2,600 were issued the $50 fine.

City officials believe the lack of water savings will continue to be an issue for Clovis residents. Most residents have cut back on their irrigation already. During fall and winter, residents have historically reduced their water consumption. Because that reduction was already made, it will be harder for customers to meet the 36% reduction and fines will, more than likely, increase.