Kemp Implements Strict Water Restrictions

Mandatory water restrictions are in place for Kemp in Kaufman County.

Late last night, officials in Kemp approved the immediate restrictions on lawn watering and car washes.

"Due to several major water line breaks, a spike in demand resulting from the heat, and the influx of about 1200 school students - this is a very unfortunate 'perfect storm' scenario," said Kris Burns, Kemp Public Works Director.

The measures include prohibiting landscape watering, prohibiting vehicle washing, penalties for excessive water usage of 10,000 gallons per month per residential customer, and an immediate moratorium on new water taps.

"We inherited an old water system built in the 1920s and a plant that's 40 years old. While we've been making steady progress towards long-term solutions to our production capacity and distribution issues, unfortunately this 'perfect storm' just hit us," said Kemp Mayor Matt Ganssle. "We've been running the water plant at full speed 24 hours a day for almost a week, yet the high demand is causing us to struggle to get water back into the towers. We need the community to step up and take measures to drastically cut water use until we can refill the towers and get over this hump."

No date has been set for when the restrictions may be lifted.

Customers who suspect a leak should call the 24-hour Kemp Water Hotline at (903) 498-7951.

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