Committee Proposes Drought Surcharge

On Feb. 9, the Environmental Committee will present recommendations to the Charlotte City Council (N.C.) that include adding a fee to customers' bills for a special drought surcharge.

As of earlier this month, the North Carolina Drought Management Advisory Council says Mecklenburg County is in the "Abnormally Dry" status. That means water users need to prepare for more serious, impending drought conditions.

During the most recent drought, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Utilities officials say the group lost about $20 million because of water conservation efforts. The proposed drought surcharge ordinance is one of two recommendations designed to generate revenue during a drought. It would only be put in place during times of restricted water use.

City officials say it would help encourage water conservation and recover lost revenues as a result of restrictions.

If the council approved the committee's recommendation, staff plans to develop an ordinance within the next six months.