Water Use? The Council Isn’t Saying

Annoyed Los Angeles City Council members on Tuesday beat back an attempt by Councilman Nate Holden to force them to disclose how much water their households use each month.

“It’s hard to understand why Mr. Holden does what he does,” lamented Councilwoman Gloria Molina during a spirited debate as other council members joined in denouncing the proposal.

Citing privacy concerns, the council rejected it 7 to 3.

Several council members attacked Holden for making the proposal and suggested that he make public his personal water consumption if he wants to.

“I really am uncomfortable with publishing yet more of our private lives,” complained Councilwoman Ruth Galanter.

“I think it is an invasion of privacy,” Molina added. She asked Holden if he intended to question them about their personal credit ratings during city budget debates.

Molina said that politicians already live in a fishbowl and called Holden’s proposal “one more infringement” on their privacy. “I don’t know why we’re being put to this test,” she added.

Holden appeared surprised by the harsh response and said the council was making too much of the proposal. “What’s wrong with saying how much water you use?” Holden asked. “I don’t think we as individual members of the council really have anything to hide.”

Last month, the council enacted a voluntary water-rationing proposal that could become mandatory if Los Angeles residents fail to cut back on their water usage by 10% in any month. Conservation for July fell just short of 10%, but August is the first month that will be considered for the purpose of mandatory rationing.

“Whenever you’re saying you’re going to impose certain restrictions on the public, the public has a right to know,” Holden argued.

Only Councilmen Gilbert Lindsay and Robert Farrell voted with Holden.