• Request regular updates on interaction with the local water board, elected officials and pertinent state agencies.
  
• Request copies of communiqués, meeting minutes and legislation that might directly affect your business.
  
• Publicly support the on-going efforts of your coalition.
  
• Follow the coalition’s action plan, and request an update on activities.
  
• Ask for an update on the state and federal resources that are offered to businesses to help mitigate any potential losses. If applying for federal and/or state assistance, request that your coalition press for assistance and help you get the necessary paperwork in order. (The following Web site is also a good disaster relief reference: http://www.disasterhelp.gov)
  
• File any necessary paperwork, keep track of business losses, continue to monitor water restrictions, be innovative where possible, utilize the power of your coalition and deal honestly with your customers and employees.

This crisis will pass—hopefully without holding your business hostage. Beyond short-term solutions, the coalition’s long-term goals should focus on creating and maintaining positive community relationships, while proactively working towards permanent water management resolutions.