Council adopts cross‑connection control amendment to align with state code

Moses Lake — The council unanimously adopted an amendment to the city’s cross‑connection control code (listed in the packet as ordinance 3091) after a staff presentation by Water Manager Chad Streevia and discussion about device selection and cost implications for builders.

The ordinance revises section 13.09 to reflect required elements of Washington Administrative Code 246‑290‑490, clarifies responsibilities for the city and water customers, updates definitions to match state terminology, tightens testing, inspection and reporting duties, and modernizes enforcement language. Staff said the amendment sets a double‑check valve as the minimum protection for many auxiliary water supplies unless state law requires a higher device for higher‑health hazards; table 9 (high health hazards) still requires more stringent devices in those cases.

Council discussion centered on phrasing and optics. Councilmember Lombardi said he was uncomfortable with the phrase "a minimal level of protection," arguing the council had chosen the most affordable option to preserve housing affordability and did not intend to imply neglect. Staff and other councilmembers replied that the word "minimum" is common code language indicating a baseline requirement and that higher levels of protection remain allowable or required depending on premise risk.

The ordinance was moved and seconded and passed unanimously with no recorded opposition. Staff noted there are currently five local testers for backflow devices and estimated testing costs in the $50–$75 range per test; they also said staff can require higher devices where plumbing or use demands it.