Fort Myers urges residents to conserve water due to drought conditions on the horizon

FORT MYERS, Florida. Homeowners and business owners are being asked to reduce their water consumption.

This is being done to conserve water supplies after the city says daily consumption has exceeded an average of 9.1 million gallons of water.

This is a marked increase from last year’s average consumption of 8.8 million gallons per day. And with the onset of warm weather, fears of drought are on the horizon. The move could affect some downtown businesses very soon.

“This is the first time I’m hearing about a restriction or a request for a water restriction.”

Ralph Ramirez is the general manager of the Buzzeez restaurant. Located in the heart of downtown Fort Myers, he says his water bill is included in his monthly rent. This water is mainly used for washing dishes.

“I can’t tell you in gallons, but it’s a fair amount of water,” Ramirez said. “We use a two-step process for washing dishes and dishes and what not. So we go through a fair amount.”

The city reports that last week the National Drought Mitigation Center classified Fort Myers as experiencing “moderate drought” and “abnormally dry” conditions. It got to the point that the city authorities are asking residents to reduce the amount of water poured out.

Officials are asking residents to run sprinklers only once a week, not wash cars at home, and turn off the water when brushing teeth or washing dishes. City manager Marty Lowing tells us, “If we all follow these tips, we will ensure that levels in our reserve tanks remain high during the peak season… We cannot let our guard down. We must prioritize the conservation of water in every home to avoid difficulties in the future.”

Fox 4 contacted the city late that evening to see what hardships they hope to avoid. To see how bad things can get if we don’t save water. We are still waiting for a response. Until then, these businesses say they will do their part.

“We want to make sure we can do everything we can to help the entire region conserve water without risking anyone’s health.”

Health and sanitation has a big impact on adherence to the conservation call, Ramirez said. Running a restaurant requires compliance with health and safety regulations.

“Yeah, I don’t mind keeping,” Ramirez said. “As long as I can continue to maintain the quality of my health and what the state requires of me.”

It’s action, he says, and he would like his neighbors to follow suit.

“I hope residents take this opportunity to save now so we don’t have to do it later.”