AUBURN - The Auburn Board of Public Works is continuing its water emergency declaration for Auburn and Peru.

The board reports water well levels below normal and asks for water use only for essential activities.

Outdoor water use and lawn irrigation are banned.

The board’s drought contingency plan would shut down the car wash, but the Board of Public Works is allowing the car wash to continue operating.

At its November meeting, the board discussed stage 3 water drought protocols and agreed to suspend restrictions on businesses with car washes.

The waste water reservoir is remaining full at 22 feet and wells are slowly recharging.

The board will consult with Miller & Associates regarding potential long-term water supply options.