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Buffalo Gap trustees hear first reading of revised utility ordinance; attorneys remove unenforceable lien language
Summary
On first reading, the board reviewed Ordinance 2025-UR-4 (Utility Services) after attorney edits removed unenforceable lien language for unpaid bills; trustees also discussed installing a meter/valve for contractor/railroad hydrant use and water-safety concerns.
The Board of Trustees of Buffalo Gap conducted a first reading Dec. 8 of Ordinance 2025-UR-4, a revised Utility Services ordinance. Attorneys reworded sections to limit town liability and removed language that would have allowed placing liens on properties for unpaid water bills after noting that provision is not enforceable.
Chair Christine Wells read the ordinance title and explained the substantive changes were suggested by town attorneys to reduce legal risk and to correct unenforceable language. The text will be posted on the community-center bulletin board and distributed by email on request prior to subsequent readings.
Trustees and staff also discussed hydrant use by outside parties, including a construction crew and the railroad. Staff described a meter/valve option that would let contractors draw water from a designated hydrant while recording usage to enable billing and prevent line-pressure surges caused by opening and closing hydrants. The board asked staff to research the cost and practical setup for a dedicated metered hydrant and to coordinate with local contractors if the town proceeds.
The ordinance was given a first reading only; trustees will return the ordinance to the agenda for subsequent reading(s) and formal adoption once public notice and attorney review are complete.
