2024-028 - Adopting Revised and Consolidated Water Conservation Drought Contingency PLan

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within an accuracy of plus or minus 5%; meters larger than 3" are tested and calibrated annually in accordance with AWWA standards; meters are routinely replaced based upon the age of the meter or abnormally high or low water usage readings; all new meters are touch read or automatic reading; inactive accounts are identified on a monthly basis and are inspected periodically for illegal connections; abandoned meters are removed. Sec. 12.06.077 -Water Loss The City of Paris maintains an active program for leak detection and repair. The previous 5 -year water loss average water loss for the City is calculated to be nine percent (9%). The City's 5 and 10 -year goals are to maintain water loss at ten percent (10%) or less. A periodic internal water audit measures water loss by comparing water volumes sold to metered water diversion. Any abnormalities are investigated by Department of Utilities personnel using leak detection equipment. Water lines determined to have leaks are either replaced or repaired as quickly as practical by City crews or, if necessary, by licensed private contractors. In 2023, the City repaired 203 leaks; 7 production meters were tested; 9 meters larger than one and one-half inches (1.5") were replaced; and 25 meters smaller than one and one-half inches (1.5") were replaced as part of the ongoing leak detection and repair program and to aid in the reduction of water loss. Elevated and ground storage facilities are monitored by the water treatment plant SCADA system capable of alerting personnel to changes of water levels in the storage tanks, which would indicate possible breaks in a water main, tank overflows, and/or other abnormalities in the distribution system. Visual inspections are performed routinely by meter readers and Utilities staff. When meter readings are obtained that indicate unusually high water usage City personnel investigate the cause of the excessive usage and, if necessary, alert the customer of potential plumbing issues, e.g. plumbing fixture leaks. Sec. 12.06.078 -Water Rates The City of Paris has a uniform rate structure. The City contracts with a rate consultant to perform an annual rate study to maintain cost -based rates. Demand charges discourage the excessive use of water. Sec. 12.06.079 -Cross Connection Control The City of Paris maintains a cross connection control program, as required by the State of Texas. Risk of backflow is reduced when steps are taken to ensure that system pressures are maintained during periods of emergency repairs and also through periodic Customer Service Inspections for cross connections. Facilities and structures identified as high hazards to public Page 17 of 20