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Cotati council levies assessments for unpaid backflow testing charges
Summary
The city adopted a resolution establishing outstanding backflow testing charges for 47 properties and directed those assessments be levied on the fiscal 2025–26 property tax roll; the motion carried unanimously.
Cotati — The Cotati City Council on Aug. 11 adopted a resolution establishing outstanding backflow‑testing charges for properties that have not paid required annual certifications and directed staff to levy those assessments on the 2025–26 property tax roll.
Public works director Craig Scott explained the program, noting the city’s ordinance No. 773 requires property owners to test backflow devices that protect the drinking‑water system from contamination. Scott said the city has about 650 backflow devices citywide and the current assessment list includes 47 properties with unreturned certifications or unpaid testing charges. The assessments include the testing cost plus an administrative fee (about $37) and a late penalty ($15), all rolled into the assessment amounts.
After opening and closing the public hearing with no public comment, the council moved, seconded and approved the resolution by voice vote; the motion carried unanimously.
Why this matters: Annual backflow testing is a state and local water‑system safeguard; assessments collect unpaid testing charges and authorize their placement on the property tax roll when owners do not comply.
Next steps: Staff will prepare the assessment roll and forward it to the county for inclusion on fiscal year 2025–26 property tax bills.
