Fixing the pipes: City outlines water, sewage maintenance plan

The city of Rowlett increased the cost of its water to consumers at the start of the fiscal year. Part of the increase was a result of the increase in the cost of water by the North Texas Municipal Water District, and the remainder was to fund some repairs to the city's water and sewer infrastructure.

"Back in the summertime we had a number of public meetings relative to the need to generate additional maintenance for the utility fund. Effective Oct. 1 we raised rates $8.65 and at that point and time we indicated to you that additional study needed to occur relative to the appropriate allocation [of those funds]," said Lynda Humble, city manager. "We came back to you with a plan similar to the way we manage our cash CIP [Capital Improvement Program]."

The increase will generate approximately $2.8 million to be used for infrastructure repairs and improvements.

Jim Proce, managing director of public works and development, began the discussion by addressing several changes that were made to make the city's utility department more efficient.

"In the last two years much progress has been made," Proce said. "It took 50 years to get to where we are now; it's going to take a while to dig out of it."

One of the changes has been to get employees certified to manage both wastewater and the distribution of water. Proce said the department has a goal to get everyone dual-certified.

Proce said the utility department is committed to putting the funds to the best use for the taxpayers.

"We are looking at this as something we take very seriously," Proce said. "We are going to provide value to our customers."

The department has divided the maintenance plan into four initiatives - line replacement, infrastructure improvements, reliability issues and multiple maintenance programs.

The department plans to replace at least 5 miles of lines annually, have all manholes epoxy coated, replace the SCADA system, perform maintenance and inspection of every hydrant at least once a year and replace all failing valves as part of its implementation plan.

The department will also ensure backup power is available at pump stations in case of power failure. Other plans call for the acquisition of better technology and enhancements to the city's lift and pump stations.

"We are going to do it right. We are living with what happens when you don't do it," Humble said.

"We want to be a first-class utility," Proce said.

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