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Commissioners outline sewer-backup prevention program with up to $1,000 homeowner reimbursement
Summary
Officials described a program that reimburses homeowners up to $1,000 for backflow-prevention devices; the city budgeted about $100,000 for the program and will reimburse licensed plumbers directly after an engineering application is approved.
Commissioners reviewed the city's sewer-backup prevention program during the study session, describing a shift from a previously ineffective small reimbursement to a program that covers up to $1,000 per household for backflow-prevention devices.
A commissioner explained the updated program: homeowners must file a brief application with engineering; once approved, the homeowner may hire a licensed plumber and the city will pay the contractor directly. "What we offer is up to 1000 dollars," the commissioner said, noting the prior reimbursement had been about $50 and was underutilized.
Staff reported the city budgeted roughly $100,000 for the program in 2025-26 and said the program will prioritize dense areas. Officials described the program as part of a five-year maintenance plan now in its second year, overseen by staff identified as Scott and Brooke.
Commissioners framed the policy as a way to reduce liability and claims costs tied to aging sewer infrastructure; one commissioner said the city faces "huge" and growing claims when backups occur. The commission discussed encouraging state legislation to fairly limit municipal liability for sewer backups but did not take formal action at the study session.
The item remained informational; staff will return budget and program updates at future meetings.
