Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Prescott public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
8 issues in water utilities with high priority
Prescott Lakes Effluent Agreement
The city and the Yavapai-Prescott Indian Tribe have a settlement agreement involving effluent credits — essentially rights to reclaimed water. How the city positions itself in these ongoing discussions could shape Prescott's water supply arrangements for years.
High Water User Definition Framework
The city is exploring frameworks to define high water users based on annual volume and peak demand to aid in long-term water planning and rate structures.
Medical Facility Water Service Application WSA26-031
The council approved an 18.02 acre-foot water allocation for a new medical plaza on Willow Creek Road. Because it exceeded standard quarterly thresholds, the project required a formal appeal, sparking broader discussion on implementing city-wide rainwater harvesting policies.
Outside City Limits Water Service Policy Update
The council amended city code and adopted a resolution to permit city water service connections for 53 specific older parcels outside city limits that lack sewer access. Officials emphasized this is a one-time, limited solution with strict safeguards.
Water Meter Replacement and EyeOnWater Smart Meter Program
The city is more than halfway through replacing all 27,000 water meters with new smart meters, which has significantly reduced billing service orders. Staff are also working to increase customer sign-ups for the EyeOnWater app to help residents monitor usage and catch leaks early.
Sundog Ranch Road Transfer Station Master Plan
City officials and consultants reviewed an $18.4 million master plan to modernize the Sundog Ranch Road Transfer Station. The project aims to separate public self-haul traffic from commercial trucks and increase capacity by up to 40%.
Code Exemption for Water Service Without Sewer Connections
The city is considering changing code rules so that property owners in older outlying subdivisions can get city water even if there's no sewer line nearby. Many residents have found their lots unbuildable because they are trapped between having waterlines right outside their property and a city rule requiring expensive sewer extensions.
Gila River Adjudication and Legal Strategy
City Attorney Joseph Young and staff discussed the Gila River Adjudication, noting that Prescott is reviewing its statement of claimants and monitoring court activity to protect its water rights in the Upper Verde River watershed.