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He stressed the goal is for this to serve as a deterrent, not a revenue source for the city. In the event a <br /> Stage 2 or 3 emergency is declared by the Council, staff will begin to filter the customer base and notify <br /> users that they are in danger of incurring penalties if their consumption is not reduced. <br /> Mayor Thorne asked whether agriculture was included in the Governor's declaration. <br /> Mr. Smith confirmed that agriculture was included. He noted that many farmers in the valley also <br /> receive their water from the State Water Project and are in exactly the same position as the city. <br /> Certain other areas such as Modesto Irrigation District, however, receive their water from an entirely <br /> different source and are not at all limited in this year's allocation. <br /> Mayor Thorne asked and Mr. Smith confirmed that approximately 85% of the state's water is used for <br /> agriculture. He noted that a 1% reduction in agricultural use equals a 10% increase in supply for other <br /> uses. Mr. Smith concurred but reiterated that with a 0% allocation, there is no supply for them to cut <br /> back on. <br /> Councilmember Narum asked when environmental work on the recycled water project would be <br /> complete. <br /> Mr. Smith estimated about ninety days from now. <br /> Councilmember Narum asked how the appeals process would work. <br /> Mr. Smith explained that after determining a user might be subject to penalty, staff would contact them <br /> to discuss any unknown anomalies or special circumstances. In the event the penalty was upheld, the <br /> user would have appeal rights to the City Manager in writing. <br /> Councilmember Narum asked him to discuss the marketing and outreach plan. <br /> Mr. Smith said the city is working with an Oakland firm that has worked with East Bay Municipal Utilities <br /> District and is -expecting their written proposal tomorrow. In addition to professional assistance, the <br /> committee has been working on education and sign materials. Training of city staff is currently <br /> underway as are meetings with Hacienda Business Park and the Chamber of Commerce. <br /> Mayor Thorne asked if there are any plans to utilize TV30. <br /> Mr. Smith confirmed and added that the committee is looking into an electronic feedback system to <br /> support two-way communication between the city, residents and businesses. <br /> Mayor Thorne offered him access to the Mayor's Report as part of the outreach effort. <br /> Councilmember Cook-Kallio asked how residents can contact the city helpline and what sort of <br /> response time can be expected. <br /> Mr. Smith repeated the hotline number (931-5504) and explained that city staff is being reassigned to <br /> support the anticipated call volume. He stressed the city's commitment to assisting residents and <br /> businesses, which includes providing free low-flow devices and in person assessments of how to <br /> conserve both inside and out. <br /> Councilmember Brown asked and Mr. Smith confirmed that the service is free of charge. <br /> Mr. Smith again stressed staff's role in assisting consumers. He explained that most users could likely <br /> reduce their outdoor consumption by 50% to 60% without worrying that things will turn brown, but that it <br /> really requires professional expertise like the city can offer to outline an appropriate plan. He also <br /> City Council Minutes Page 10 of 18 March 18,2014 <br />