OUR TOWN
Mayor answers questions about proposed annexation, city utilities
MAYOR PHILLIP SPENRATH

The following are answers to some of the more frequently asked questions concerning annexation responsibilities and potential costs.

1. When can newly annexed residents expect to have water and sewer available to them for connection?

As soon as possible! The city would like to immediately connect all residents to city utilities. However, due to engineering, letting of contracts, possible weather delays, etc., some areas may not receive city utilities for 2 to 41/2 years after being annexed. Our goal is to immediately begin construction. We will initially start construction in the more populated areas like Sandy Corner and Sunset Terrace.

2. Once water and sewer are available, will it be mandatory that they connect?

Yes, within 6 months after the resident receives notice that City utilities are available. Without requiring immediate mandatory connections, the existing city customers would have to bear most of the annexation costs. Further, the longer a newly annexed resident waits to "tap in" to the city utilities, the more likely their expense for piping and plumber fees will increase.

3. Do new residents have to connect to both water and sewer at the same time?

Yes. The water and sewer connections must be concurrent in order to provide the city a means of disconnect if non-payment occurs. Thus, sewer without water is not acceptable.

4. Can existing water wells still be utilized?

Yes, only for non-residential usage. We have a few city customers who still have working wells and also receive city services. These existing wells can only be used to wash cars, and water grass and animals. The existing well cannot be connected to any city service. Pursuant to city policy, when the existing well becomes in need of major repairs or replacement, the resident will be required to connect to the city's system.

In addition, when using an existing well, the resident, at his expense, must attach an RPZ valve to their external watering system in order to prevent back siphonage.

5. Upon connecting to the city sewer system, do existing septic tanks need to be abated (filled in)?

Yes, at the owner's expense. This current city policy is intended to prevent potential health and welfare issues. In some cases, the owner may be able to do the actual dismantling himself if he possess the appropriate equipment and knowledge.

6. When are utility deposits required?

At the time of connection into the city's system. Currently, El Campo charges a $125 deposit for sewer and water. (This amount is subject to change prior to the actual date of connection).

7. Does the resident have to run water and sewer lines from their home to the newly constructed city system?

Yes. The customer (at his expense) must pay for the running of the water and sewer lines from their home to the water meter and sewer tap. The city does not pay any of these costs. This current city policy has been a standard expense for most home contractors.

As an estimate, and certainly subject to change, one local plumber estimated that the cost of a 100-foot water line could range from $400 to $800 and a 4-inch sewer line may cost from $1,200 to $1,500. The price range also depends on the area and what the plumber has to work around.

8. Is the resident responsible for the cost of the meters? What size and how many meters will be provided?

Yes. The resident is responsible for the expense of the meters. Similar to recent work completed in the Westhills Addition, the city is requiring a 1-inch meter. Currently, a 1-inch sized meter costs $700 (this price is subject to change).

The size and number of meters depends on the location and the type of service that the customer needs. We have some residents who have two meters (one for service and one for irrigation). Also, some locations, such as a school, may require a 2-inch meter.

9. Do the newly annexed customers pay for the initial tap-in fee?

Yes. Current city policy requires all residents to pay their initial sewer and water tap fee. At present, the city charges $700 for a 1-inch water tap and $500 for a 4-inch sewer tap (these prices are subject to change).

10. Will all city ordinances become effective upon the date of annexation?

Yes. These are just a few: code enforcement, construction codes, construction permits, weedy lots, junked vehicles, ban on outdoor burning and animal control.

Existing structures will come into the city being designated as "non-conforming users" and thus be allowed to exist under their current condition. However, any newly constructed residential or commercial structures will require permits (agricultural barns and lean-to structures will be excluded).

11. Does the city offer installment plans for repayment of the meter and other fees?

At present, the city does not offer repayment plans for annexation procedures. However, some cities have provided this service for extenuating circumstances.

Annexation is a very difficult and costly undertaking for both our current city residents and those being considered for annexation. One of my primary goals has and will continue to be providing every citizen with credible information along with open access to your city government.

- Comments may be addressed to askthemayor@sbcglobal.net.