Title
Approving an ordinance on second reading with the caption reading: AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 53 OF THE CITY OF PFLUGERVILLE CODE OF ORDINANCES, TITLED WATERS AND SEWERS, BY ADOPTING SECTIONS 53.003 THROUGH 53.014 ESTABLISHING A CROSS-CONNECTION CONTROL AND BACKFLOW PREVENTION PROGRAM; PROVIDING A REPEALER CLAUSE; PROVIDING FOR A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE; PROVIDING FOR A SAVINGS CLAUSE; PROVIDING FOR A PENALTY NOT TO EXCEED $2,000; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Summary
This item has been included on the agenda for adoption of an ordinance to implement the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) regulations and requirements regarding a Cross Connection Control and Backflow Prevention Program. Presentations and discussion took place at the May 9, 2017 and the July 25, 2017 City Council meetings.
TCEQ requires the City to implement a Cross Connection Control and Backflow Prevention Program that allows for monitoring and testing of potential cross connections.
This program will ensure that backflow prevention devices are installed and tested to protect the City’s water supply. Backflow is the reverse flow of water in any pipeline, causing non-potable water to flow into the public water supply. Backflow can occur when changes in water pressure create a suction effect, forcing non-potable water into the City’s drinking water supply.
Backflow prevention devices are used to protect our potable water supply from contamination due to backflow. Without these barriers, water that is no longer safe for consumption could travel into the City’s water supply and contaminate the drinking water. Typically, backflow prevention devices are required for plumbing system connections that contain chemicals or industrial fluids, irrigation systems, fertilizers or auxiliary water sources including reclaimed water.
Backflow prevention devices are mechanical devices, containing springs and other moving parts that are subject to wearing down and/or breaking. Routine maintenance and testing is necessary to ensure the device is working properly.
This ordinance has been approved by the City Attorney as to form.
This ordinance will not apply to most residential irrigation systems.
This ordinance was approved on first reading on August 8, 2017.
Fiscal Impact
Staff has determined that the staffing required for this effort is approximately 1 1/2 full time equivalent employee (FTE). The estimated annual cost of $98,000 annually represents the salary and benefits for that level of staffing. These costs are included in the proposed fiscal year 2018 Water Distribution Operating and Maintenance department account.
Staff Recommendation
Approval of the ordinance as presented on second reading.
Drafter
Tom Word
Assistant City Manager