Title
Consider/Discuss a Proposed Ordinance for Water Supply Cross Connection Control and Backflow Prevention
Summary
COUNCIL GOAL: Operational Excellence
(2:1: Balance available resources to accommodate the growth and maintenance of the City);
(2:3: Performance management tools and new technologies, identify opportunities for internal efficiencies and continuous improvement to foster and reinforce a high performing organizational culture)
MEETING DATE: October 20, 2026
DEPARTMENT: Public Works
CONTACT: Ryan Gillingham, PE - Director of Public Works
Michael George - Assistant Director of Public Works
Tracey Cottrell - Water Utilities Supervisor
RECOMMENDED CITY COUNCIL ACTION:
• Approval of the Ordinance.
ITEM SUMMARY:
• Presentation proposing an Ordinance for Cross Connection Control and Backflow Prevention.
• The proposed Ordinance would establish a program in Chapter 110 to protect the City’s public water supply from contamination caused by cross connections and backflow.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
• The City currently enforces minimum cross connection control and backflow prevention requirements established by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.
• The proposed Ordinance strengthens these protections by creating a dedicated Cross Connection Control and Backflow Prevention article in Chapter 110.
• Key provisions establish requirements for the selection and installation of approved backflow prevention assemblies based on the degree of hazard; protection for fire systems, fire hydrants, landscape irrigation systems, mobile units, and other potential cross connections; initial and recurring assembly testing; timely submission of testing and repair records; maintenance and repair of assemblies; annual registration of certified backflow prevention assembly testers; and customer service inspections where required.
FINANCIAL SUMMARY:
• The Ordinance provides the City with the authority to establish fees associated with administration of the Cross Connection Control Program in the future; however, no new fees are being established as part of this Ordinance. Prior to implementing any fees, the City would evaluate the costs associated with program administration, including any third party vendor fees resulting from future contracts. Any proposed fees would be brought back to the City Council for consideration and approval at a future date.
BOARD OR COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION:
• N/A