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245 Mr. Russell Perry, Rivanna River Roundtable, said that he community needs to give guidance to public officials. Mr. Perry said that worst-case drought conditions are being used by Rivanna Water and Sewer Authority. The Council and Board need to determine reasonable and responsible future demand. And need to develop a statement of community values and principles, should determine the parameters of population, and need to begin comprehensive water planning, including the issue of groundwater supply. Mr. Perry recommended the following process: 1) interjurisdictional water plan; 2) furnish RWSA with the number of people who should be supplied water; 3) use studies to direct rural growth; 4) assure healthy eco-system; 5) policy established assuring wise use of water; 6) explore easier less expensive options first to buy time; 7) complete studies on ail alternatives; and 8) develop principles to guide future water supply/needs. Public comments Mr. Bob Watson, Government Affairs Director of the Charlottesville Area Legislative Action Coalition, said that the need for an increased future water supply has been identified since the I970's and Buck Motmtain was acquired for that purpose. Mr. Watson said federal regulations have changed and now all options have to be studied, which is currently being done. Mr. Watson said a surplus has been paid by new water customers with the understanding that the water supply is to be increased and time is of the essence to avoid restrictions or limits on new customers. Mr. Watson said anti- growth efforts should not be allowed to derail efforts to address future demand issues. Mr. Watson said the Rivanna Water and Sewer Authority is capable of studying and implementing decisions regarding ~water. Ms. Katie Hobbs read a statement fi.om Treva Cromwell. Ms. Cromwell said that it should be made clear that the current study only affects the City, University of Virginia and urban growth areas of the County. Ms. Cromwell expressed concern that the region may not have the water to sustain the projected growth. More septic tank regulations are needed to protect groundwater. Ms. Diana Foster, Earlysville, representing the Rivanna Watershed Center, said the Center provides education to the public on watershed issues. Ms. Liz Palmer, Albemarle County resident, said that the water cost ramifications have not been considered for many of the options. Ms. Palmer said it is a necessity to dredge the Rivanna Reservoir and a cost analysis is needed before decisions can be made. Ms. Palmer said building a new reservoir is not a cost effective plan. Mr. Russell Perry presented data about water use and noted that the City and County are using more than the national average. Ms. Leslie Middleton, Oxford Road, said that the information presented affirms her belief in the importance ofconservation efforts and said public participation is required. Ms. Middleton urged officials to be proactive in implementing a public awareness campaign regarding water conservation. Mr. Tim Sanjule, 111 Cherry Street, said that as a teacher he is surprised by the lack of education about water conservation efforts and said that human behavior can be changed regarding water use. A resident of 4632 Greencreek Road, Schyler, said there is a need to assess needs and natural resources and expressed concern that the County appears reluctant to protect rural resources. Mr. James Ford, a Nelson County resident, said that trees and forest land need to be protected as water depends on healthy forests. Mr. Ford asked why large waters users are given cut rates and recommended that the rate structure be redone. The meeting was adjourned. Preside~~ ~x~~