Interim City Administrator and Public Works Director Bob Stephenson, is asking the citizens of Altus "to implement a voluntary 'odd/even' watering plan with the goal of reducing overall demand by some 10 to 15 percent."

Stephenson said based on "continuing demand for treated water and extreme temperatures our treatment plant mechanical infrastructure is at a point where component failures are common and becoming problematic." Due to the high temperatures and exceptional drought, Stephenson said, "Our current condition is one of continued demand at extremely high, if not historic, levels and no relief in sight." As he advised Mayor David Webb and the Altus City Council at the July 19 City Council meeting, "our supply of raw water is ample." Stephenson said, "It goes without saying the Mountain Park Conservancy District is experiencing the same heat and demand related impact on their pumping plant equipment." Their District Manager has indicated they are currently "on the edge."

Stephenson said this is not meant to alarm citizens, but to empower them to be prudent about their own water management.

Residences/businesses with addresses ending in odd numbers (1, 3, 5, 7, 9), are asked to water early or late on odd numbered dates.

Those with even ending addresses (2, 4, 6, 8, 0) are asked to water on even numbered dates.