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Town reports partial compliance with backflow testing; ordinance allows shutoff for noncompliance
Summary
Town staff reported partial compliance with the cross-connection control program: 39 of 41 irrigation systems have backflow devices (26 tested); 23 fire-suppression systems confirmed devices (14 tested).
Town staff updated the council on Interlaken's cross-connection control program at the July 8 meeting, reporting progress and outstanding testing compliance.
Staff said 41 properties have irrigation systems; 39 of those have confirmed backflow-prevention devices, 26 have been tested and 15 have not been tested (staff described one property as not confirming whether a device exists). On the fire-suppression side, staff said 23 properties have systems, all of which have confirmed backflow devices, and 14 have been tested.
Staff noted the town's ordinance requires property owners to submit periodic testing reports and authorizes water service shutoff for noncompliance. Multiple councilmembers and staff described shutoff as a drastic enforcement measure and discussed alternatives and the town's reporting obligation to the state. Staff said the state has at times requested these reports but enforcement and follow-up from higher authorities has been inconsistent.
Council directed staff to continue outreach to remaining property owners and to coordinate with the water masters (named in the discussion as Trent) on next steps. Staff indicated it could submit the town's compliance report to the state as-is to show the current status.
