Utility operator: sanitary survey found only minor issues; state backflow ordinance introduced

Connor, the utility operator, presented the results of Sunman's 2026 water sanitary survey and said inspectors found only minor deficiencies that were quickly corrected. Connor reported installation of a 24-mesh screen on an air-release valve, painting of a raw inlet pipe to address surface rust, filling of a washout at a north tower and removal of outdated equipment; he said the inspector included extra items on the report to strengthen the town's grant application.

Connor told the council, "no major deficiencies anywhere, nothing that wasn't cleaned up in a week," and noted the town adopted a contingency plan required by regulators.

In new business, staff introduced ordinance 20-26-03, a cross-connection and backflow-prevention ordinance based on a state regulation. Staff explained the measure generally requires appropriate backflow assemblies for new commercial and industrial connections, annual certified testing by licensed plumbers, centralized record-keeping and provides the authority to require devices on properties demonstrating backflow risk. Staff noted section seven could affect properties using wells or cisterns if internal plumbing is tied to the system.

Council members asked whether residential customers would be affected; staff said the rule is targeted by service size and zoning, with most homeowners unaffected unless their plumbing is connected in a way that presents a cross-connection risk. The ordinance was presented for consideration and will be back for further action next month.