Jude rules in favor of Home Builders Association of Central Arizona over groundwater dispute

KTAR News: Water Watch

Jude rules in favor of Home Builders Association of Central Arizona over groundwater dispute

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Published on May 22, 2026, 4:35:48 PM
Total time: 00:01:24

Episode Description

A judge sided with the Home Builders Association of Central Arizona when it ruled the Arizona Department of Water Resources can't use what the judge called new rules to prevent developers from building. Developers were prevented from building in the West Valley because any new subdivision would deplete the aquifer in the East Valley. ADWR Director Tom Buschatzke said groundwater is all connected. Representing the Home Builders Association, Vice President of Litigation for the Goldwater Institute Jon Riches said this new standard hurt the housing market. 

More about KTAR News: Water Watch

KTAR News covers the state’s water usage, effects of an ongoing drought and what can be done to ensure water is available for people in the state of Arizona in the future.