Alabaster approves water leak repair ordinance – Shelby County Reporter

By NOAH WORTHAM | Senior Editor

ALABASTER – The Alabaster City Council approved an ordinance at a meeting Thursday, Nov. 7, requiring residents and businesses to repair water leaks in the city.

During the meeting, the city held a public hearing on the water leak repair ordinance, and after receiving no feedback for or against, the ordinance was unanimously approved by all council members present.

“The City is committed to ensuring sustainable management of its water resources by encouraging our residents and property owners to promptly repair water leaks,” said Council Member Kerri Pate as she introduced the ordinance and made a motion for approval.

According to the city, the purpose of the ordinance is to protect the health, safety and welfare of residents by requiring property owners and residents to promptly repair water leaks to conserve water, prevent property damage and protect the public water supply. The City defines water leaks as any visible or detectable release of water from plumbing systems, fixtures, irrigation systems or other sources connected to the public or private water supply.

The ordinance provides that if a property owner discovers a water leak on their property that is connected to a system under their control, they have seven days to repair the leak.

Should a property owner fail to repair the leak within the time specified by the city, the following options may occur:

• For each day that the violation continues beyond the allotted time, the city may impose a fine of $50 per day
• The city may make the necessary repairs and bill for the cost plus an administrative fee
• The City reserves the right to have the Alabaster Water Board terminate water service to any property if the owner fails to comply with this obligation – provided that the owner receives final written or email notice at least 72 hours prior to termination

Additionally, the Alabaster City Council approved the following agenda items:

• A resolution approving an agreement with Charter Communications to install spectrum cables for the city's recreation center and library project
• A resolution authorizing the Mayor to enter into a professional services contract with InSite Engineering LLC for the design and construction management of Contract 5 to resolve problems with pump stations two and four, for an amount not to exceed $125,000
• A resolution authorizing the addition of a full-time employee in the form of a human resources specialist to the human resources department
• A resolution authorizing the Mayor to enter into a memorandum of understanding with EFP Broadband, LLC in support of an Innovate Alabama Network Grant project
• A resolution authorizing the mayor or city manager to execute and deliver on behalf of the city an amendment to the District 31 developer agreement and certain certificates

The Alabaster City Council's next work session will be Thursday, November 21 at 6 p.m. at City Hall.