Higher water rates proposed

Local organizations that participated included Transition Laguna, which fosters neighborhood vegetable gardens' the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce Beautification Council, which presents awards to landscaping that enhances the city streetscape, Friends of Hortense Miller Gardens, Greater Laguna Coast Fire Safe Council and the city.

Children painted plant pots while adults consulted with landscape architects who offered 20-minute free consultations and visited vendors' booths at which water-wise equipment was exhibited.

The district also offered free hose nozzles to the folks who attended the expo and free native poppy seeds, California's official flower.

Other water-efficient equipment has been made available to the public, including low-flow shower heads and waterless urinals.

The district is also working with the city to reduce run-off from public property, which not only saves money and conserves a vital resource, but also prevents pollutants from reaching our beaches and the ocean through storm drains.

Tips on water abusers can be called into the Waste Water Hot Line at (949) 342-1437.

Final approval of the rate increase will be up to the City Council, sitting as the district board of directors.

A meeting has not yet been scheduled, but it must be held prior to Jan. 1, when the increase in the wholesale cost of water begins.