Fair Oaks Ranch approves emergency interconnect agreement with SAWS for temporary potable water

Fair Oaks Ranch City Council on Dec. 4 approved a resolution authorizing the city manager to execute an emergency interconnect agreement with San Antonio Water System (SAWS) to provide temporary potable water to Pressure Zone C during qualifying emergencies.

Assistant Public Works Director Steven Fried said the interconnect will provide a controlled means of receiving emergency water — for example during system pressure loss, mechanical failures or extended power outages — and will be located on Leslie Pfeiffer Drive with SAWS zone metering at the point of delivery. "This agreement formalizes the terms under which SAWS may provide the city with temporary potable water during qualifying emergency conditions," Fried said.

Fried summarized major terms: SAWS retains priority to serve its customers; activation must be performed by SAWS personnel at the city's request; usage is restricted to essential indoor domestic use only (no outdoor watering or pool filling); each activation is limited to 30 consecutive days unless SAWS approves an extension; the city must install and annually test certified backflow prevention assemblies; the agreement has a 10‑year term and may be terminated by either party with notice; SAWS will assess a $613 monthly meter availability fee and activation billing follows the higher residential rate between SAWS and the city.

Council discussed triggers for activation and public messaging; staff said activations would be coordinated with SAWS and preceded by resident notifications and conservation messaging. Council approved the resolution by voice vote. Staff said design, permitting and construction costs are covered by existing water utility capital allocations.