“Need a towel? Please ask.”

Since Gov. Jerry Brown called on Californians to really cut back on water use, many Central Coasters didn’t hesitate, even though they’ve been doing so for years.

While a lot of the pressure to conserve has fallen on homeowners’, businesses are stepping up too — like the Monterey Sports Center.

As of two weeks ago, members probably noticed a new sign at check-in. It reads, “Need a towel? Please ask.”
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Before, everyone who walked in got one. But the laundry was adding up, and using a lot of water.
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The new tactic is receiving a lot of positive feedback.
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“Anytime we can save water, it’s a good thing,” member Andy McCoy said. “I don’t always remember to ask for the towel (laughs), but it’s a good policy.”

It’s too early to know how much water asking for a towel will save, but employees say every drop counts.

Facility coordinator Rachael Zalan said the center has always tried to conserve, even before the drought.

There are low-flow shower heads in the locker rooms, low-flow faucets and waterless urinals.

And really, these adaptions are just the start. Sometime in the beginning of June, Monterey city employees are coming together to take a hard look at areas where they can save.

“So we can inspire the public, and inspire the community to save water as well,” Zalen said.