Municipal Services Committee Approves $400,000 Contract for Awareness Campaign Promoting Water Savings

The Municipal Services Committee unanimously approved on Tuesday, April 12, the $400,000 contract with local marketing company Pastilla Inc. for the development of an awareness campaign about the importance of saving water to ensure sustainability and the actions needed to build climate resilience.

The contract will be effective from fiscal year 2022 through 2025.

According to the Pasadena Water and Power Department request, the campaign seeks to advance the goals of the 2020 Water System and Resources Plan, (WRSP) which prioritizes conservation, increasing local water supply, restoring and protecting a resilient watershed, and sustainable groundwater basin.

The planned elements of the campaign communication materials will include deliverables such as bus shelter posters, light-pole banners, brochures and utility bill stuffers.

“By using a full range of media, PWP plans to not only reach more of our customers, but also reach customers with multiple views, thus reinforcing the campaign message and creating greater impact,” read PWP’s report.

Aside from providing a comprehensive water awareness campaign, the contract also requires Pastilla Inc. to create a strategy for community education and communication on water issues that impact Pasadena and the region.

Funding needed for the campaign will be addressed by the use of existing and future budget appropriations in Water Operating Fund, Other Contract Services Account.

About $85,000 is anticipated to be used for the current fiscal year. The remainder of the costs will be spent over the succeeding fiscal years, as per staff report.