Title
Consider an ordinance amending Chapter 44, Article VII, Code of Ordinances (2010 Edition), regarding Cross Connection Control and Prevention. (Second Reading)
Body
Over the past year, the Utilities & Environmental Services Department has been changing how the CIty manages the Backflow Prevention Program. This program is necessary in order to protect the possibility of contaminants from entering into the water distribution system when there is a loss of pressure. Devices that are considered high-hazard, which are mostly found in restaurants or hospitals, are required by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to be tested annually. Devices that are considered low-hazard, which are mostly irrigation system devices, are currently required to be tested every 10 years; however, the City would like to change that timeframe to once every seven years. Low-hazard devices are not required to be tested by the TCEQ, but are require by local ordinance.
The City has recently contracted with Backflow Solutions,Inc. (BSI) to assist the City in managing this large time-consuming program. As part of this amendment, we are adding language that clarifies how the City will handle situations when the property owner fails to complete the testing requirement of their device. After three notifications (two letters from BSI and the third notice from the CIty), the City will proceed with testing the device and adding the cost onto the customers water bill.
Staff recommends approval to these amendments to the City's Backflow Prevention ordinance.
Recommended Action
Staff recommends approval.