IMPERIAL BEACH, Calif. -- The Imperial Beach City Council will consider a plan to install artificial grass at one of its parks in order to save water and money, 10News reported.

On November 4, a proposal will be introduced to create an artificial-turf soccer field at Veterans Park. The plan could cost the city thousands of dollars to install, but supporters say it would also save thousands of dollars on water and maintenance costs.

Like many local governments, Imperial Beach is trying to lead by example. The grass in front of City Hall was recently removed and replaced with stones, cement and drought-resistant plants. The changes were paid for through a grant, and the city also received a discount on supplies.

The artificial turf would also be supported by a grant. However, Mayor Jim Janney said he still doesn't believe Imperial Beach has enough money to get the project started.

"The up-front costs of artificial turf are very large now," said Janney. He also said artificial turf is "viable if you have the resources. Of course, Imperial Beach, we've always been a little strapped."

Janney said the city is strapped for cash, and one of the reasons is the city is in the Southwestern-most corner of the U.S. and doesn't have a major highway running through it. Not having a major highway in the area means motorists can't get to it easily and tourists don't think of it as a major destination.

"As some of us say," Janney continued, "California starts here, but it's very hard to get to."

Even if the city had the money to replace all of its grass with artificial turf, Janney doesn't think the city would. He said residents would still want parks with real grass.

"Those are the types of things that cities are expected to provide," Janney said.