Manhattan Beach adopts cross-connection control plan to protect drinking water; property owners may incur backflow-prevention costs

The City Council adopted the City of Manhattan Beach Cross-Connection Control Plan, a required compliance document under the State Water Resources Control Board’s Cross Connection Control Policy Handbook. Utilities Manager Jeff Page and consultant John Graham presented the plan and told the council the document is a public-health protection program that will require hazard assessments, installation of backflow prevention assemblies where necessary, annual testing by certified technicians and a multi-year implementation schedule.

The consultants emphasized that cross connections—any connection that could allow non-potable substances to enter the drinking-water supply—are common and can create severe health and financial consequences when backflow events occur. Staff said the city performed an initial hazard assessment of its own facilities and found unprotected services that have been, or are being, addressed.

John Graham explained the risk-class approach (none, low, high) and that many high-risk services will require reduced-pressure-principle backflow assemblies installed near the point of service; customers will be responsible for corrective measures and the annual testing costs. Graham estimated that a typical assembly installation in pavement could run into the low-thousands of dollars (example: $3,000–$3,500 for a 3/4-inch assembly under certain conditions), while simple hose-bib vacuum breakers can cost as little as about $10.

The plan also calls for public outreach, record-keeping and coordination with other city departments. Council approved the plan and authorized submission to the state water board for final approval (motion passed 5–0). Staff said some elements will roll out over several years and that the plan will be updated as the state handbook evolves.