Council seeks report after utilities explain backflow-prevention testing notices

Laredo utilities staff told the City Council on March 17 that annual testing of backflow-prevention assemblies is required by the city ordinance and state rules for any irrigation or other systems tied to the public water supply. After council members described residents’ confusion and cost concerns, the council directed utilities staff to return with a report on how many households may be affected, how many certified testers are available locally, and options to reduce burden or improve public communication.

Director of Utilities (introduced in the meeting as Buzz Fishcare) explained that anyone with an irrigation system connected to the municipal water supply must protect the public water system with an approved backflow-prevention device. Those devices must be tested annually by a certified backflow prevention assembly tester (BPAT). Utilities staff said notices were underway to property owners who either do not have a required device or have a device that has not been tested in the past year.

Council members said some notices reached residents by surprise, and they asked whether the city’s building or certificate-of-occupancy process requires inspection and installation at the point of construction. Building staff said plumbing final/customer service inspections are part of the CO process for new homes and that the city will examine whether inspection and permitting language should be adjusted to reduce surprise for new buyers. Utilities staff acknowledged enforcement gaps in the past and told council they will coordinate with building and code enforcement to improve compliance and public outreach.

Council passed a motion directing utilities to prepare a report that estimates the number of affected households, lists certified BPAT providers known to the city, and recommends communication and assistance strategies, including training opportunities and potential inspection coordination with building department processes.

Why it matters: Backflow devices protect the public water supply from cross-connections. Residents expressed concern about the cost (staff noted tests can exceed $100) and availability of certified testers; council asked staff to provide clarity and options for residents.

Ending: Utilities staff will return with a written report including an estimate of affected customers, a list of certified testers, and recommendations for communication and process changes to reduce the burden on residents.