City Council updates utilities ordinance to enhance water system protection

The Mooresville Board of Commissioners convened on June 11, 2025, to discuss significant updates to the utilities ordinance, focusing on water and sewer management policies. The meeting highlighted the need for clarity and organization within the ordinance, which governs the community's water system and associated services.

The discussion began with an overview of the criminal penalties associated with the ordinance, specifically addressing issues such as meter tampering, inappropriate water use during droughts, and violations of industrial pretreatment requirements. These penalties aim to protect the integrity of the water system from malicious or negligent actions.

Commissioners noted that while the ordinance underwent a major overhaul, the changes primarily involved reorganization rather than substantive alterations. The updates included clearer expectations for information dissemination to the community and staff, as well as the incorporation of statutory references and procedural updates to enhance understanding of utility services.

Key components of the ordinance include provisions for water and sewer extensions, bulk water accounts, and the management of hydrant meters for construction projects. The emergency conservation plan remains unchanged, but it emphasizes the importance of managing water levels during drought conditions, referencing past droughts that impacted the community.

Additionally, the sewer use ordinance was integrated into the updated document, maintaining its provisions against illegal dumping. The ordinance includes a program to manage fats, oils, and grease from food service establishments, which can cause blockages in the sewer system. Commissioners urged the public to refrain from disposing of grease down drains to prevent system failures.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to enhance public education regarding illegal dumping in both sewer and stormwater systems, with plans to disseminate information to raise awareness among residents. Overall, the updates to the utilities ordinance reflect the Board's ongoing efforts to ensure sustainable water management and community engagement in Mooresville.