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Lexington staff move to update backflow-control ordinances after state rule gaps found
Summary
Town staff told council the existing cross-connection/backflow control program was out of date and did not comply with state law; staff proposed naming a testable backflow device standard, improving recordkeeping, and using contractor lists and installment payment options to bring pre-2000 systems into compliance.
A utilities staff member presented proposed updates to Lexington's cross-connection control program, telling council the town's prior program and ordinances were inadequate and out of compliance with state law. The changes proposed would close a loophole that previously grandfathered many irrigation and other connections installed before June 2000 and would require modern, testable backflow prevention devices, consistent recordkeeping, and protocols for contractor connections.
Staff explained that state drinking-water rules that were updated around 2000 began requiring approved testable backflow prevention devices and that pre-2000 systems and non-testable devices created vulnerabilities. The update would address high-hazard connections and establish a replacement frequency and testing schedule for devices; it would also require better recordkeeping and a contractor approval process.
Staff described real incidents motivating the change: a homeowner who tied an irrigation well into house plumbing, exposing the water supply to shallow-aquifer contamination risk; and a contractor who temporarily connected chemical trailers to the system. The presenter said those circumstances demonstrated the town's exposure and the need for protective devices.
Council discussed the scope and cost: staff reported one-off installation quotes in a sample range of about $500 to $850 and noted Joint Municipal's compressed-fee model costs roughly $5.50 per month per customer in one example. Council asked about equity and affordability for residents on fixed incomes; staff proposed payment plans and town-assisted bulk procurement to reduce per-household costs.
After discussion, council unanimously voted to place the proposed ordinance on the next regular meeting agenda for two readings so staff can refine implementation language (scope, testing schedule, timelines for bringing pre-2000 systems into compliance and payment options). Staff said initial outreach material (a PSA) is ready and that the first step will focus on irrigation systems required by law, with a best-practice aim toward broader protection where feasible.
