Go with the flow? Don’t think so

Re “L.A. urges conserving water in dry spell,” June 7

I have serious issues with legislators and the mayor trying to regulate individual residents to cut water use when the irrational structure of water policy in California is the real culprit. Population growth is projected to nearly double in Southern California, particularly in the high desert. If this is unsustainable, then why are cities and counties issuing mega-development permits? There isn’t enough water for everyone here at present, particularly if we head into a long drought. Legislation should target commercial/industrial water use. If these facilities replace their existing chiller systems, or if new facilities design environmental guidelines to the point of sustainability, millions of gallons of water can be saved each year by each building. Appropriate landscaping also reduces the carbon footprint of adjacent streets and parking. Getting back to the nonessential residential water demands: a pool tax, anyone?

LAURIE BARLOW

San Marino

*

I have a very easy water-conserving idea that should be mandated by Los Angeles and other municipalities throughout the state. I believe that all public facilities and government buildings with restrooms and/or showers should be obligated to install push-button faucets on their sinks and showers. The water/time usage should be long enough for either washing one’s hands or a timely shower, after which faucets shut off and require a second push to reactivate, perhaps for a shorter period of usage. This would help save millions of gallons a year.

MIKE MCGINLEY

Los Angeles

*

Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa says we should shower less to conserve. Half the water in this state is wasted on the production of meat. If we want to save our health as well as our precious and dwindling water supply, we need to pass up most of those burgers.

TIM I. MARTIN

Corona