Property owner says city sewer tap was missed; staff says private lateral collapsed

A property owner and a staff exchange over a problematic sewer connection took place during public comment at the Nov. 5 Alamosa City Council meeting.

Melanie Garcia, owner of 531 Edison Ave, said recurring sewer backups at a tenant's business followed city sewer-line work in 2024. She said Rocky Mountain Septic and later city staff used cameras and that video footage shows the initial tap was missed; she asked how the city recommends owners be reimbursed for expenses caused by the mistake.

Public works staff member Harry described prior communications: RMS camera work suggested the private lateral had collapsed and staff could not verify a tap because flow obstructed the view. He said the owner agreed to replace her lateral line, and the city's contractor installed a new tap at that time; the city waived the tap fee for the work done.

City Manager Heather clarified that property owners are responsible for the lateral (the private line) and said the city would continue to assist where appropriate; she also noted staff would respond where comments warranted follow-up. Council took no formal action and staff described the remedy that was implemented when the lateral was replaced.