Ho-Ho-Kus June 8, 2011 THE VILLADOM TIMES III • Page 7 Council approves three-zone watering schedule by Jennifer Crusco A long-time resident of Wearimus Road recently questioned the council as to why the governing body was pursuing watering “restrictions” despite this spring’s copious rain. Ho-Ho-Kus Mayor Thomas Randall told the resident that the watering schedule is adopted annually as a matter of course. He said the borough has traditionally used a two-zone watering schedule, but said this year’s plan is to have three zones. At a previous council session, the governing body agreed that the three-zone system that was used last summer had worked well, and the council members said they wanted to use the same plan for 2011. The additional zone was added last summer to further spread out local water use. “That doesn’t answer the question,” Leo Strauss pressed. Mayor Randall said the council may review the watering schedule, adding, “We don’t know what the weather will be.” He added that instituting a watering schedule is good water management and would help ensure that no water pressure problems arise in town. He said the plan is about scheduling, not restrictions. When Strauss said he wanted to discuss the issue, Councilman Doug Troast attempted to clarify the resident’s concerns. “We’ve been doing this as long as I can remember,” Troast said. Strauss said he wants the freedom to water whenever he wishes. He added, “People should act when there’s an emergency, not ‘un-act’ when there’s no emergency. Why do we have this system?” “We can’t have everyone watering at once,” Mayor Randall responded, saying, “I understand, philosophically, your point.” According to the resolution adopted by the council, Ho-Ho-Kus residents will be asked to abide by last summer’s three-zone watering schedule. Residents of each area will be permitted to use sprinkler systems two days each week. Area 1 is located west of West Saddle River Road and south of Hollywood Avenue. Residents in Area 1 may use sprinklers on Thursday and Sunday. Area 2 is located west of West Saddle River Road and north of Hollywood Avenue. Sprinkler days in this zone will be Wednesday and Saturday. Area 3 includes properties east of West Saddle River Road. Residents in this area may use sprinklers on Tuesday and Friday. No watering is allowed on Monday. Anyone found to be watering on Monday, or on a day not permitted in his or her area, will be subject to a surcharge. With proof of new plantings or sod, the Ho-Ho-Kus Department of Public Works may grant permission for additional watering. Contact the DPW at (201) 445-8161 for permission. Resident Carol Tyler, who addressed the council on another topic, commented on the concerns aired by Strauss. Tyler expressed her view that it is an appropriate step to have a watering schedule. She said many people tend to over-water their lawns. “The grass will grow anyway!” she added.