Reply #45: No, it should never be turned off

[supernova]

I do like the tiered service idea, the more you use the more you pay.

And x gallons permonth free for general washing/cleaning, and cooking. Beyond that you can pay through the nose if you can afford it. The issue isn't water use, it's the misuse. We need to conserve water. Period

I find it appallingly sad that the old and the sick have their utilities cut off. Here, if you require medical equipment, your electricity cannot be shut off for non payment. They have to work with you. Municipal water should be handled the same way.

I have a well and my water is free and of good quality, although I do pay for the electricity to run the pump and the water heater. I'm looking into replacing my old water heater with a solar one. We'll see.