For the purposes of this chapter, the words set out in this section shall have the following meanings:
(1) 
“Applicant”
means a person, corporation, association, or agency applying for water service.
(2) 
“Base charge”
means a periodic charge for water service charged in addition to the consumption charge.
(3) 
“City”
means the City of Albany, a municipal corporation of the State of Oregon.
(4) 
“Commercial services”
means provision of water to mercantile establishments, professional offices, public or governmental buildings, hospitals, retirement homes, churches, motels, manufacturing and processing uses not qualifying as seasonal food processing or industrial service, and to multifamily dwellings and apartment houses except those in which each unit is metered separately. Service to any of the above listed commercial services in combination with any residential use shall also be considered as commercial service.
(5) 
“Council”
means the City Council of the City of Albany.
(6) 
“Customer”
means a person, corporation, association, or agency receiving water service.
(7) 
“Consumption charge”
means a charge placed on every hundred cubic feet (HCF) of water delivered.
(8) 
“Cross-connection”
means any physical arrangement whereby the public water supply is connected directly or indirectly with any nonpotable or unapproved water supply system, sewer, drain, conduit, pool, storage reservoir, plumbing fixture, or other device which contains, or may contain, contaminated water, liquid, gases, sewage, or other waste of unknown or unsafe quality which may be capable of imparting contamination to the public water supply as a result of backflow.
(9) 
“Domestic service”
means the provision of a metered service to a single living unit for purposes of normal domestic consumption including such uses as sprinkling lawns, gardens, and shrubbery; the watering of livestock; the washing of vehicles; and other similar or customary uses.
(10) 
“Drop-in meter service”
means a water service that may be provided by installing a meter in an existing meter box or vault at a service location where all of the service connection piping and appurtenances except the meter have previously been installed.
(11) 
“Frontage”
means the total length for which a parcel abuts one or more than one public right-of-way plus that length for which a public water line is located on (or is proposed to be located on) a parcel.
(12) 
“High elevation service areas”
means those areas served by the City’s water utility that require secondary pumping to provide adequate service.
(13) 
“Industrial service”
means the provision of water to a customer through a four-inch or larger meter for use in manufacturing or processing activities located on land designated for industrial use in the Albany or Millersburg Comprehensive Plans.
(14) 
“Low-and medium-density residential development”
means residential development on land designated as R-1 Low Density Residential District or R-2 Limited Multiple Family Residential District by the Albany Development Code (AMC Title 20).
(15) 
“Mains”
means transmission or distribution pipelines located in streets, highways, and public and private rights-of-way which supply water for general public usage.
(16) 
“Maximum flow”
means the flow through each meter size as established by the American Water Works Association as listed in AWWA Standards, Section C700, and shown below.
Meter Size Inches
Maximum Flow in Gallons Per Minute
3/4
30
1
50
1-1/2
100
2
160
3
320
4
500
6
1,000
8
1,600
10
2,300
(17) 
“Main extensions”
means extension of transmission or distribution pipelines, exclusive of service connections, beyond existing facilities.
(18) 
“Minimum charge”
means the dollar amount charged for water service when the sum of the base charge and the consumption charge for any period is less than the adopted minimum charge for the applicable class of service and meter size.
(19) 
“Multiple-blocks”
means where more than one service unit exists per water meter.
(20) 
“Municipal or public use”
means the provision of water to governmental or public entities.
(21) 
“Non-drop-in meter service”
means a water service which requires installation of any piping or appurtenances before a meter can be provided and connected.
(22) 
“Non-essential water use”
means water that is not required to maintain public health or safety.
(23) 
“Premises”
means the property and/or unit(s) to which water service is being requested, or provided.
(24) 
“Rate schedules”
means those rates, charges, rentals, and regulations as they are set forth and amended from time to time by the City Council.
(25) 
“Regular working hours”
means the hours between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, except City holidays.
(26) 
“Seasonal food processing service”
means the provision of water to a customer through a two-inch or larger meter for use in primarily summer and fall dry-season food processing activities located on land designated for industrial use in the Albany or Millersburg Comprehensive Plans.
(27) 
“Service connection”
means the pipes, valves, meter boxes, and appurtenances necessary to supply water from mains through the meter, but this does not include the piping from the meters to the point of service.
(28) 
“Service line”
means all piping and appurtenances from the meter to the point of service. The service line is privately owned and maintained.
(29) 
“Service unit”
means each self-contained living unit or independent business activity that is served from a single meter.
(30) 
“Temporary service”
means service that will not be of a permanent nature such as circuses, fairs, construction, etc.
(31) 
“Utility”
means the City of Albany, a municipal corporation of the State of Oregon.
(32) 
“Water system facility plan”
means the current version of the master plan for development of the water system as amended or updated.
(Ord. 4664, 1985; Ord. 4878, 1989; Ord. 4940 § 1, 1990; Ord. 5770 § 1, 2011)
The area in which water service may be furnished at the utility’s option, including all that territory within the corporate limits of the City of Albany and Millersburg and certain areas adjacent or in reasonable proximity thereto. Except as provided by service contract, the service area shall be limited to the Albany and Millersburg city limits.
(Ord. 4664, 1985; Ord. 4878, 1989)
(1) 
Supply. The utility will exercise reasonable diligence and care to deliver a continuous and sufficient supply of water to its customers and to avoid any interruption in the delivery of said service.
(2) 
Quality. The utility shall exercise reasonable diligence to supply safe and potable water at all times.
(3) 
Classes of Service. All service installed by the utility will be classified as follows:
(a) 
Private Fire Protection (Inside City Limits). Applies to standpipes, connections for automatic sprinkler systems, and fire hydrant service for private fire protection.
(b) 
Private Fire Protection (Outside City Limits). Applies to standpipes, connections for automatic sprinkler systems, and fire hydrant service for private fire protection.
(c) 
Single-family Residential (Inside City Limits). Applies to all single-family residences and to individual apartments or flats where service is furnished through a separate meter for each such individual apartment.
(d) 
Single-family Residential (Outside City Limits). Applies to all single-family residences and to individual apartments or flats where service is furnished through a separate meter for each such individual apartment.
(e) 
Multi-family Residential and Commercial (Inside City Limits). Applies to all commercial customers, including industrial seasonal food processing and mercantile establishments, stores, offices, public buildings not otherwise classified, public and private hospitals, schools, churches, mercantile and industrial establishments combined with residences, and apartment houses except those in which service to each apartment is metered separately.
(f) 
Multi-family Residential and Commercial (Outside City Limits). Applies to all commercial customers, including industrial, seasonal food processing, and mercantile establishments, stores, offices, public buildings not otherwise classified, public and private hospitals, schools, churches, mercantile and industrial establishments combined with residences, and apartment houses except those in which service to each apartment is metered separately.
(g) 
Special Contracted Services. Applies to all residential, commercial, and industrial customers who have need for special services and for which rates will be negotiated.
(Ord. 4664, 1985; Ord. 4878, 1989; Ord. 4940 § 1, 1990)
(1) 
Application. Each applicant for water service may be required to sign a form provided by the utility setting forth:
(a) 
Date of application.
(b) 
Location of property to be served.
(c) 
Date for which service is being requested.
(d) 
Class of service (commercial, residential, etc.).
(e) 
The address to which bills are to be delivered.
(f) 
Whether the applicant is an owner or tenant of the property.
(g) 
Owner of property, address, etc.
(h) 
Credit information as pertinent to the customer account.
(i) 
Where required, a waiver of remonstrance agreement form shall be attached to the application for water service in conformance with AMC § 11.01.100(1)(d).
(j) 
An agreement to be jointly and severally obligated, along with all water customers receiving service at the location noted above, to abide by all applicable ordinances and regulations pertaining to water service, and to pay all costs, damages, and fees which may be incurred as a result of water service provided to this location until such time as the customer requests the termination of service.
(k) 
Such other information as the utility may reasonably request.
(2) 
Deposits.
(a) 
Turn-ons. Deposits shall be required with each application of service of each residential user and deposits equal to an estimated three months’ usage shall be required of each commercial and industrial user within 72 hours of application of service except under the following circumstances:
(i) 
If the applicant presents satisfactory evidence of ownership of the property where service is to be provided unless other information exists that indicates that the applicant is not an acceptable credit risk.
(ii) 
Transfer. Deposits may be transferred from an existing account to a new account provided the existing account demonstrates a satisfactory credit record.
(b) 
Existing Users. All existing users, if service is discontinued for nonpayment, shall be required to comply with the deposit requirements of subdivision (a) of this subsection before service will be restored.
(c) 
Refund or Application of Deposits. Deposits will be refunded to the applicant or applied directly to the customer’s account as follows:
(i) 
Refund: On termination of service, less any amount then due and payable.
(ii) 
Refund: On the 15th of the month following 24 months of continuous service, except under the following circumstance whereby the utility shall apply the deposit to the customer’s account.
(A) 
Application of Deposit. The utility may on the 15th of the month following 24 months of continuous service apply the deposit directly to the customer’s account if the account is found to be past due, or has been past due three times during a 12-month period, or if the account has been disconnected for nonpayment during a 12-month period.
(d) 
Interest on Deposits. Interest will be paid on any deposit at a rate determined by Council resolution.
(3) 
Changes in Customer’s Equipment. A customer making material changes in the size, character, or extent of the equipment or operation utilizing water service, and if such change results in the consumption of larger or smaller amounts of water, said customer shall immediately give the utility written notice of the change. Changes shall be made in accordance with AMC § 11.01.100(5) and (6).
(4) 
Special Contracts. Contracts, other than applications, may be required prior to service where special circumstances warrant special consideration.
(5) 
New Account Fees. A charge will be collected for the activation of any account.
(Ord. 4664, 1985; Ord. 4878, 1989; Ord. 4940 § 1, 1990)
(1) 
Rendering of Bills.
(a) 
Meter Readings. Meters will be read at regular intervals for the preparation of periodic bills and as required for the preparation of opening, closing, and special bills.
(b) 
Estimated Meter Readings. Meter readings will be estimated based upon the averaging of the customer’s consumption records in the event that it is impossible or impractical to read a meter for the preparation of a water bill. Failure to read the water meter does not relieve the customer’s obligation to pay for actual or estimated water use.
(c) 
Bills for Water Service. Bills will be rendered as established by Council resolution.
(d) 
New Accounts and Closing Accounts. Accounts will have the periodic base and minimum charges prorated through the day that service is terminated (for closing accounts) or on the day started (for new accounts).
(2) 
Payment of Bills.
(a) 
All bills are due and payable on presentation. Payment may be made at the utility’s office.
(b) 
When bills are past due, the utility will follow the procedure as outlined in AMC § 11.01.060.
(3) 
Billings of Separate Meters Not Combined. Each meter on a customer’s premises will be considered separately, and the readings of two or more meters will not be combined.
(4) 
Individual and Joint Service. Two or more parties who join to make a single application of service shall be jointly and individually liable for all charges incurred on the account. Joint applications of service will only be sent a single bill.
(Ord. 4664, 1985; Ord. 4878, 1989; Ord. 4940 § 1, 1990)
As compensation for the use of City-owned rights-of-way, the water fund shall pay the street fund an in-lieu-of franchise fee in the amount of 7 percent. This fee shall be applied to water system rate revenues. Revenues received from the City of Millersburg, or from customers located within the City of Millersburg, shall be exempt from the fee. Revenues required to meet debt service payments for projects associated with the original construction of the Albany-Millersburg Joint Water Treatment Plant shall also be exempted from the 7 percent fee.
(Ord. 5404 § 1, 1999; Ord. 5563 § 1, 2003; Ord. 5937 § 3, 2020)
(1) 
A water account is due and payable upon billing or 30 days following provision of service, whichever shall first occur. Water accounts shall bear interest at the rate of nine percent per annum from the date payment is due. Interest shall not be charged if the account is brought current within 60 days after becoming due. If not so paid, interest shall accrue from the date payment was due.
(2) 
A second notice (past due notice) will be mailed to all unpaid accounts on or about 30 days following the original billing date; said notice will state the amount past due and request that payment or arrangements for payment be made within 10 days of the past due notice date. This past due notice will be sent to the customer’s mailing address.
(3) 
A written warning notice to the customer shall be left at the premises on or about the forty-sixth day following the original billing date stating that payment must be received in the City business office within 72 hours (three days) or water service will be terminated. In the case of a multi-family unit serviced by a single meter, the written warning notice will be left at each dwelling unit whether or not occupied.
(4) 
In all cases of past due turn-offs, a notice shall be left on the door or mailed to the customer on or about the forty-ninth day following the original billing date stating that water has been turned off and will remain turned off until all past due amounts and penalty charges are paid. Turn-off notices for multi-family units serviced by a single meter will be left at each dwelling unit whether or not occupied. A service charge established by Council resolution will be charged and collected for each past due or disconnection notice sent or delivered to the customer’s premises.
(5) 
In all instances where water has been turned off because of nonpayment of a past due account, a service charge established by Council resolution will be collected in addition to the past due amount prior to restoring any service during regular working hours. An additional fee will be collected for restoration of service after regular working hours.
(6) 
The City Manager or the City Manager’s agent, in the case of extreme hardship or by prior arrangement with the user, shall have the discretion of renewing or not discontinuing service to a past due account upon acceptance of a valid plan for the payment of all past due, current, and future charges.
(7) 
Notice shall be given with the past due notice that the customer shall have the opportunity, if they do not agree with the billing, to have a hearing on their account. The hearing shall be held by a Hearings Officer appointed by the Finance Director and the Hearings Officer’s decision shall be binding. Written notice to the utility by the customer of a request for a hearing must be given prior to the water service being disconnected; otherwise, the customer must pay all past due accounts plus any restoration charges prior to service being restored. If the hearing is held and the Hearings Officer finds in favor of the customer, any or all of the appropriate charges may be adjusted or returned to the customer based upon the findings of the Hearings Officer.
(8) 
If any unpaid account balance remains after the initial due date of the closing bill, the utility may:
(a) 
Apply deposit.
(b) 
Transfer any remaining balance to the customer’s new water account.
(c) 
Initiate other collection action against the customer.
(9) 
In cases where termination of service for a past due account may cause severe hardship or loss of life, the utility may initiate other collection action against its customers. This action may include the use of small claims court and/or district court, if appropriate.
(Ord. 4664, 1985; Ord. 4878, 1989; Ord. 4940 § 1, 1990; Ord. 5542, 2002)
(1) 
Notices required to be given by the utility to the customer will normally be given in writing, and may be delivered to the customer personally or by mail to the address for which service is rendered.
(2) 
Notice from the customer to the utility shall be given by the customer or authorized representatives orally or in writing at the utility’s office.
(Ord. 4664, 1985; Ord. 4878, 1989)
(1) 
Nonpayment of Bills. A customer’s water service may be discontinued if the water bill is not paid in accordance with the procedures as listed in AMC § 11.01.060.
(a) 
Nonpayment of Deposit. A customer’s water service may be discontinued if the deposit is not paid within 72 hours of application of service as listed in AMC § 11.01.040.
(2) 
Unsafe Apparatus.
(a) 
The utility may refuse to furnish water and may discontinue service to any premises where apparatus, appliances, or equipment using water is dangerous, unsafe, or is being used in violation of laws, ordinances, or legal regulations.
(b) 
The utility does not assume liability for inspecting apparatus on the customer’s property. The utility does reserve the right of inspection, however, if there is reason to believe that unsafe or illegal apparatus is in use.
(3) 
Service Detrimental to Others. The utility may refuse to furnish water and may discontinue service to any premises where excessive demands by one customer will result in inadequate service to others.
(4) 
Fraud and Abuse. The utility shall have the right to refuse or to discontinue water service to any premises to protect itself against fraud or abuse.
(5) 
Noncompliance. The utility may, unless otherwise provided, discontinue water service to a customer for noncompliance with any of these water system rules and regulations any time after giving written notice to the customer of the utility’s intention to discontinue service. If such noncompliance affects matters of health or safety or other conditions that warrant such action, the utility may discontinue water service immediately.
(6) 
Customer Request for Service Discontinuance.
(a) 
Customers may have their water service discontinued by notifying the utility during normal working hours and providing at least 24 hours’ advance notice (excluding weekends) of the desired weekday date of discontinuance. The customer will be required to pay all water charges through the date of such discontinuance.
(b) 
If notice is not given to the utility, the customer will be required to pay for the water service through the date the utility has learned that the customer has vacated the premises or otherwise has discontinued service.
(7) 
Restoration – Reconnection Charge. The utility shall charge, as provided by Council resolution, for restoring water service which has been discontinued because of noncompliance with these rules. Water service which has been discontinued because of nonpayment or noncompliance with these rules shall not be restored in the name of any relative, friend, family member, nor in the same customer name when the head of the household has not changed or when the customer of record at that service location would continue to receive water service unless all charges have been paid.
(8) 
Penalty for Turning on Water Service Without Authority. Should the water be turned on by any water customer or other person without authority from the utility, the water may then be shut off at the main or the meter may be removed. The charge for shutting water off at the main shall be the actual cost plus 15 percent overhead. The charge for removing and/or reinstalling the meter shall be established by Council resolution. All such charges shall be chargeable to the customer, and water shall not again be furnished to the customer until said charges are paid.
(9) 
Tampering. Water services locked off for nonpayment or noncompliance will be subject to tampering fees as specified by Council resolution should any consumer or person without authority from the utility remove or destroy said locking devices in order to self-restore water service. Tampering charges and/or costs shall be chargeable to the customer.
(Ord. 4664, 1985; Ord. 4878, 1989; Ord. 4940 § 1, 1990)
(1) 
Prior to installation, each meter will be tested, and no meter found to register more than two percent fast or slow under conditions of normal operation will be placed in service.
(2) 
On Customer Request.
(a) 
A customer may request the utility to test the meter serving the customer’s premises.
(b) 
The utility may require the customer to deposit an amount to cover the reasonable cost of the test as established by Council resolution.
(c) 
This deposit will be returned if the meter is found to register more than two percent fast. This deposit will be forfeited if the meter is found to be accurate or slow.
(d) 
A written report giving the results of the test shall be available to the customer within 10 days after completion of the test.
(3) 
Utility Initiated Meter Testing.
(a) 
The utility may temporarily interrupt water service in order to test existing meters or make repairs.
(b) 
In lieu of subsection (3)(a) of this section, the utility may, at customer’s expense, install bypass piping in order to maintain water service during meter testing or repairs.
(Ord. 4664, 1985; Ord. 4878, 1989; Ord. 4940 § 1, 1990; Ord. 5472, 2001)
(1) 
The utility may make adjustments, back-bill, apply credits, pay refunds, or waive fees and charges in accordance with City Council policy. If no Council policy exists, the utility may make adjustments where it is deemed necessary for the proper conduct of the business of the utility. A full explanation of the reason for the adjustment or refund must be filed with the office records and will be made available upon request. Refunds are to be made to the party that made the payment.
When the utility determines that a customer has been mistakenly charged too much for water services, the utility will apply a credit to the account based on the date the error first occurred, the date the current customer became responsible for the bill, or a period not to exceed six years, whichever is less. If the date cannot be reasonably determined, the utility will estimate the amount of the refund based on a period not to exceed six years.
When the utility determines that a customer has not been charged or has not been charged enough for water services, the utility will back-bill the account based on the date the error first occurred, the date the current customer became responsible for the bill, or a period not to exceed six years, whichever is less. If the date cannot be reasonably determined, the utility will estimate the bill for a period not to exceed one year. Customers who receive such a delayed bill will be offered the opportunity to make arrangements for installment payments.
(2) 
Nonregistering Meters. The utility may bill the customer for water consumed while the meter was not registering. The bill will be calculated using an estimate of consumption based either upon the customer’s prior use during the same season of the year or upon a reasonable comparison with the use of other customers receiving the same class of service during the same period and under similar circumstances and conditions.
(3) 
Adjustments on Account of Leaks. Where it can be demonstrated that an existing leak on the customer’s side of the meter has been repaired, the utility may allow an adjustment of up to 50 percent of the estimated excess consumption due to leakage, for no more than the last two billing periods. Adjustments shall not be permitted when the excess consumption is due to the apparent continued waste of water due to a negligent failure to repair the leak.
(Ord. 5472, 2001; Ord. 5542, 2002)
(1) 
The utility may furnish and install a service of such size and at such location as the applicant requests, provided:
(a) 
Such requests are reasonable.
(b) 
The location is such that the utility has in place a distribution main of sufficient size adequate to provide service to this location without detriment to existing customers. In all cases, the final location of the proposed meter shall be subject to approval.
(c) 
That such a distribution main is adjacent to and extends along the full length of the property frontage along the right-of-way.
(d) 
Where a parcel has more than 150 feet of frontage along a right-of-way and the parcel is being developed in phases; and the water line is not currently needed for the full length of the parcel to facilitate service to other properties, to provide fire protection, or to meet other utility system needs, the requirement of subsection (1)(c) of this section may be reduced, where approved, by delaying the requirement for a water main adjacent to that portion of the parcel which remains as an undeveloped portion of a future phase. Such delay, if authorized, is contingent upon the signing of a waiver of remonstrance agreement which commits the parcel to participate in a future local improvement (assessment) district for the extension of water main(s).
(e) 
Where the property abuts more than one street or right-of-way, water mains shall be extended for the full length of the property frontages along the rights-of-way for all frontages, unless it is determined that the extensions on the frontages from which service is not being taken is not currently needed for water pressure, system capacity, or fire protection, nor to facilitate service to other properties, and that said water mains may be completed at a future time. In that case, where authorized, the owners of the property to be serviced shall sign a waiver of remonstrance agreement which commits the parcel to participate in a future local improvement (assessment) district for the extension of this water main. This agreement may be incorporated into the water service application form.
(f) 
The utility shall be the sole judge in determining the meaning and provisions of, and conformance with, any conditions for providing service to a property.
(g) 
Service taps on 16-inch and larger mains shall include an accessible gate or butterfly valve in a valve box at the connection of the main and the service line. Direct taps on 16-inch and larger mains shall be minimized.
(h) 
The applicant shall provide and maintain an accessible, unflooded vault of a size as specified for all meters larger than two inches.
(2) 
A water system development charge, an installation fee, and a deposit is hereby established. The water system development charge shall be imposed upon all connections or intensification of use made to the water system of the City in accordance with Chapter 15.16 of the Albany Municipal Code. The water system development charge shall be deposited in the water improvement fee or water reimbursement fee funds. Such funds shall be accounted for separately. System development charge revenue shall only be used in accordance with Chapter 15.16 of the Albany Municipal Code. The water fees and deposits are established by Council resolution.
(3) 
Included in the charges are all meters and necessary appurtenances for installation and continued operation of the service which the utility will supply.
(4) 
All meters shall be sealed by the utility at the time of installation and no seal shall be altered or broken except by an authorized agent of the utility.
(5) 
Change in Location or Reduction in Meter Size or Service.
(a) 
Change in the location of service at the convenience or request of the customer shall be done at the customer’s expense.
(b) 
Reduction in meter size requested by the customer shall be only if the request is reasonable and approved. Charges for these reductions are established by Council resolution.
(6) 
Increases in the Size of the Meter and Service. If a change in the size of a meter and service is requested and approved, the installation will be accomplished at a charge based upon time and material costs plus 15 percent overhead. Where the meter size increases, a connection charge shall also be charged, but a credit, equal to current connection charge for the existing meter, shall be given toward the connection charge for the new meter.
(7) 
Ownership. The service connection, whether located on public or private property, is the property of the utility and the utility reserves the right to repair, replace, and maintain it, as well as to remove it upon discontinuance of service.
(8) 
Charges for Service Pipes Connected without Permit. If the premises are connected without the application prescribed in this section, such premises shall be immediately disconnected. Before a new connection is made, the applicant shall pay double the rate for the estimated quantity of water consumed prior to the effective date of metered service, plus a tampering fee as authorized by Council resolution. A new connection shall only be made upon compliance with provisions of this Code.
(9) 
Abandoned and Nonrevenue-Producing Services. Where a service connection to any premises has been abandoned or not used for a period of one year or longer, the utility may remove such service or meter. If the service or meter has been removed, service shall be restored only upon the owner making application and paying all costs associated with the reinstallation.
(10) 
Leaking or Unused Services. Where there is a leak between the main and the meter, the utility shall make all repairs. When a service connection is damaged or destroyed by contractors or others, or where service connections are destroyed by electrolysis, the person, contractor, or company responsible for such damage or destruction shall pay the utility for the cost of repairing or replacing such connections on the basis of the direct cost to the utility in labor and in materials, plus 15 percent overhead. Where a customer service line is leaking or has a history of repair problems which has resulted in leak adjustments, service to this customer shall not be activated until the customer can demonstrate the problem has been eliminated. Action necessary may be in the form of partial or total replacement of the customer’s plumbing and/or deposit of sufficient funds to cover estimated consumption.
Customers with serious water leaks which will cause extreme financial hardship or detrimental service to other customers may have their water service terminated after 24 hours’ notice. In cases of leakage causing severe detriment to other customers’ service, water service may be terminated immediately.
(Ord. 4664, 1985; Ord. 4878, 1989; Ord. 4967 § 1, 1991)
(1) 
Number of Services to a Separate Unit. Separate service units under single or common control or management will each be supplied through individual service connections unless otherwise authorized.
(2) 
For division of multiple-block dwellings not under common management, new service must be supplied to each unit.
(3) 
Service to Multiple-block Dwellings. Separate houses, buildings, living, or business quarters on the same premises, or on adjoining premises, under a single control or management, may be served as authorized by either of the following methods:
(a) 
Through separate service connections to each or any unit if that pipeline system for each service is independent of the others and is not interconnected.
(b) 
Through a single service connection to each physically separated structure.
(c) 
The liability for payment of charges for all water furnished to combined units, supplied through a single service connection of approved capacity, is that of the owner of the property.
(Ord. 4664, 1985; Ord. 4878, 1989)
(1) 
A main extension and/or special facilities shall be required to service all property which cannot obtain service as outlined in Section 11.01.100 of this code.
(2) 
The following rules shall apply to all extensions:
(a) 
The minimum size of the water main to be installed shall be six inches in diameter where a larger size is not needed to provide required fire flows, provide adequate system or customer flows and/or pressures, conform with the size of existing mains being connected to, meet future needs, or conform to the size specified by the utility’s water system facility plan.
(b) 
All water mains shall be public, installed in public rights-of-way or public utility easements. The normal routing for the water main extension shall be in a dedicated street right-of-way.
(c) 
The Public Works Director or Director’s agent shall design or approve extensions to the water system and shall have the sole right to determine size, location, and type of facility to be constructed. All engineering shall be based on both domestic and fire protection design criteria. Those not designed by the Public Works Director or Director’s agent shall be designed by a registered engineer licensed in the State of Oregon to design these facilities. All water main extensions shall be designed and constructed to meet the approval of the utility and the Oregon State Health Division. All extensions shall be consistent with the water system facility plan.
(d) 
The installation of all water facilities shall be by City forces or through a bonded contractor.
(e) 
All main extensions shall extend to the extreme property line of the development or lot. If the property has excess frontage on the right-of-way and only partial development is to occur, then some consideration may be given to shortening the extension, provided sufficient assurance is given to ensure the completion of the extension at the time other development occurs. Where mains are being extended into the interior of a property or development, the mains shall be extended through to the boundaries of the property at all such points as shall be determined as needed unless it is determined that the extensions are not needed to provide current or future looping of water mains, or to provide current or future service to adjacent properties.
(f) 
The utility may pay for the additional cost of materials due to the oversizing of main extensions over eight inches in low-and mediumdensity residential development, provided the petitioner’s individual service and fire protection needs do not dictate a larger line size. The utility may pay for the additional cost of materials due to the oversizing of main extensions over 12 inches in diameter for all other land uses, provided the petitioner’s individual service and fire protection needs do not dictate a larger line size. The oversize payment shall be limited to pipe and fitting material cost differences only.
(g) 
The utility may, at its option, supply materials for main extension projects. All material supplied by contractors must meet strict material specifications set forth by the utility. Failure to do so will result in nonacceptance of the projects. All materials supplied by the utility to any main extension project shall be billed at the utility’s replacement cost, plus a 15 percent overhead and handling charge.
(h) 
All main extensions and system design shall include fire hydrants and other devices at intervals consistent with the recommendations of the water system facility plan, except as modified by the fire marshal. The fire hydrants shall be considered as incidental to the water mains. Where local improvement districts are established, the cost of fire hydrants shall be considered as part of the total assessable cost. Where mains are extended under permit, the cost of fire hydrants shall be the responsibility of the permittee. Where fire hydrants are installed on an existing water main to provide fire protection for a proposed development, the installed cost of the fire hydrants shall be the responsibility of the developer.
(i) 
Under conditions where hydrants are required within the property to be served, the main must be extended to the hydrant locations. Easements for these internal lines and hydrants must be provided by the developer.
(j) 
In large projects or projects where extensive engineering or design is required prior to preliminary estimates or design being obtained, a cash advance may be required to cover the cost of such engineering or design. All engineering drawings and documents and other work completed by the utility will be understood to be the property of the utility.
(k) 
In areas of service above the main system service elevation, special facilities will normally be required in addition to main extensions to provide service (AMC § 11.01.130).
(l) 
Financing of Extensions. There are two basic means of financing main extensions, as outlined below.
(i) 
Total Project Cost. Under this method the developer is required to pay the total cost of the project. An estimate covering approximate total costs related to the project may be supplied by the utility. If developers install the project themselves or through their own contractor and supply materials, a cash advance sufficient to cover the estimated cost for the utility services needed on the project may be required prior to starting the project. Upon completion of the project, actual costs will be computed and an adjustment made to the contractor or to the utility appropriately. In the case of complex projects (projects involving disruption of or cutting into existing roadways, utilities, or pedestrian ways, or other projects where partial completion of the project could result in expense to the utility), the developer may be required to supply a bond to cover the estimated cost of engineering and construction.
(ii) 
Local Improvement Districts. Local improvement districts may be formed and bonds sold to fund main extensions and special facility projects.
(m) 
Subject to available funds, refunds may be made to the developer in areas where the developer is required to extend mains beyond the property frontage. If developers are to install the project themselves or through their own contractor and supply materials, they must secure three competitive bids for the total construction cost of the extension. These bids must be turned into the utility for review and approval of utility participation, prior to beginning work. Where approved for funding, an invoice shall be submitted to the utility after construction is completed for its portion of the project cost. The cost to the utility shall not exceed the cost determined using the lowest bid.
(n) 
Installers of any and all water lines or appurtenances must meet minimum standards. These standards shall include, but are not limited to, insurance requirements, bonding requirements, and experience in the field of water line installation. The water lines must be installed in accordance with the utility’s specifications which are available upon request. Unless the work is being performed under a City contract, all main extensions shall require a “permit to construct public facilities” and the payment of the associated permit fee. The permit fee shall be 2.5 percent of the total construction cost unless otherwise set by Council resolution.
(o) 
If developers install and purchase the material themselves, they must guarantee the project for a period of one year from the date of acceptance of the project by the utility.
(p) 
A contract agreement between the developer and the utility outlining the above criteria must be signed before the start of the project.
(Ord. 4664, 1985; Ord. 4878, 1989)
(1) 
In any high-elevation service area, special facilities in the form of booster pumps, storage tanks, control equipment, etc., may be required. The utility shall approve all special facilities and shall have the sole right to determine the size, location, and type of facility to be constructed.
(2) 
The party or parties requesting the service to the high-elevation service area shall pay the full cost of said facilities including materials, installation, engineering, surveying, etc., as may be required.
(Ord. 4664, 1985; Ord. 4878, 1989)
(1) 
Application for Service. Each application for service outside the City may be acted upon on its merits without regard to any other past or present application or service. If service is approved, the cost of service connection fees plus applicable rates will be those charges and regulations set forth and approved by the Council and the same as they may be amended from time to time unless otherwise set forth in a service contract.
(a) 
Service Limitation. The utility shall not provide water service to any property outside the Albany City limits when such property is contiguous to the City limits and eligible for annexation to the City of Albany unless Council finds that it is in the public interest to do so. The property owners requesting water service must submit a signed and notarized irrevocable request to annex before receiving water service.
(b) 
Users. No use or benefits of the City water system shall be extended to or made available to any property outside the City limits, except under a contractual agreement with the owners of said property, and only then when the property is not contiguous to the City of Albany at the time the water service is requested unless Council finds that it is in the public interest to do so.
(c) 
Contract. Use and benefits of the water system may be granted to property owners outside of the Albany City limits on a contractual basis only. Except for contracts with another public agency, the contract shall require that in order to continue to receive water service, the property owner shall annex the property to the City of Albany at the earliest date that the property becomes eligible for annexation under the laws of the State of Oregon. A contract for water service may further require provisions for financing of the water extensions, annexation of property served by contract to a public agency, termination of the service contract if any conditions are not met, and any other requirements which are deemed in the best interest of the utility.
(2) 
Rules and Regulations.
(a) 
All customers receiving water from the utility shall comply with and be bound by these rules and regulations.
(b) 
Customers shall cooperate to a reasonable and practical extent with other customers with regard to the extension or enlargement of common facilities.
(Ord. 4664, 1985; Ord. 4878, 1989; Ord. 5564 § 1, 2003)
Fire protection service shall be allowed under the following conditions:
(1) 
When the owner of a property or building desires such service and a main of sufficient size and volume is present, adjacent to or which may be extended to the property (See AMC § 11.01.120, Main Extensions) in such a manner as to provide the service required.
The fee for fire services shall be an advance payment of the estimated cost, as specified by Council resolution, of the work to be done before the installation of the service connection. When the estimated cost is not sufficient to cover the actual cost, the deficit shall be billed to the applicant and must be paid prior to activation of the service. Any excess payment shall be returned to the applicant.
(2) 
The owner or agent of such a building shall agree that no water may be used from the system except for extinguishing fires or periodic testing. Before any water for testing can be used, the owner or agent must receive written permission.
(3) 
All fire systems and private hydrants, wet or dry, shall be equipped with the appropriate backflow prevention assemblies as set forth in AMC § 11.01.225(3).
(4) 
In the case of existing fire services which do not meet the conditions of subsection (3) of this section, the hydrants or hose connection may be sealed in such a manner as to indicate use thereof. If the seal is found to be broken, it will be assumed that water is being used from the fire service which is a violation of these rules and which results in action being taken as outlined in subsection (5) of this section.
(5) 
Where any violation of any of the above subsections exists, service may be immediately discontinued. In the case where no detector or proportional meter exists, then one will be required before service is restored. In cases where there is a detector or proportional meter, then the owner or agent must provide satisfactory assurances that the use of water will cease or appropriate means are provided to ensure payment for all the water used. The customer will also be required to pay for all water used. The utility shall estimate this amount in cases where it cannot be determined. The bill must be paid prior to service being restored.
(6) 
No charge will be made for water used in the extinguishing of fires.
(7) 
The cost of all detector checks, proportional meters, backflow devices, and related appurtenances shall be borne by the customer.
(8) 
Service connections and all equipment appurtenant thereto, including the meter, shall be the sole property of the utility.
(9) 
Standby charges for automatic fire service are established by Council resolution.
(10) 
Pressure and Supply. The utility assumes no responsibility for loss or damage because of lack of water or pressure and merely agrees to furnish such quantities and pressures as are available in its general distribution system. The service is subject to shutdowns and variations required by the operation of the system.
(Ord. 4664, 1985; Ord. 4878, 1989)
(1) 
Time Limit. Temporary service connections shall be disconnected and terminated within six months after installation unless extension of time is granted in writing by the utility.
(2) 
Charge for Water Served. Charges for water furnished through a temporary service connection shall be at the established rates for other customers.
(3) 
Installation Charge and Deposits. The applicant for temporary service will be required:
(a) 
To pay the utility in advance the estimated cost of installing and removing all facilities and overhead charges necessary to furnish such service; or if service is supplied through a fire hydrant, the applicant will be charged applicable fees as established by Council resolution.
(b) 
To deposit an amount sufficient to cover bills for water during the entire period such temporary service may be used, or to establish credit approved by the utility.
(c) 
To deposit with the utility an amount equal to the value of any equipment loaned by the utility to such applicant for use on temporary service. This deposit is refundable under terms of subsection (4) of this section.
(4) 
Responsibility for Meters and Installation. The customer shall use all possible care to prevent damage to the meter or to any other loaned facilities of the utility which are involved in furnishing the temporary service from the time they are installed until they are removed, or until 48 hours’ notice in writing has been given to the utility that the contractor or other person is through with the meter or meters and the installation. If the meter or other facilities are damaged, the cost of making repairs, including overhead charges, shall be paid by the customer.
(Ord. 4664, 1985; Ord. 4878, 1989)
When an abnormally large quantity of water is desired for filling a swimming pool, log pond, or for other purposes, arrangements must be made with the utility prior to taking such water.
Permission to take water in unusual quantities will be given only if it can be safely delivered through the utility’s facilities and if other consumers are not inconvenienced.
(Ord. 4664, 1985; Ord. 4878, 1989)
(1) 
Unauthorized Use of Fire Hydrant. No person or persons other than those designated and authorized by the proper authority, or by the utility, shall open any fire hydrant or attempt to draw water from it in any manner. Violation of this regulation will result in a water-use fee due and payable immediately. Any future water service request will be denied until this fee has been paid. Continual violation of this rule shall lead to prosecution.
(2) 
Damage of Fire Hydrants. No person or persons shall damage or tamper with any fire hydrant. Any violation of this regulation shall lead to prosecution.
(3) 
Authorized Use. In order to obtain authorization to use a fire hydrant, the customer must contact both the utility and the Fire Department. The utility will determine a hydrant the customer may use, after which they must get the Fire Department’s written permission.
At the time the customer signs up for temporary water supply from a fire hydrant, the customer must supply the utility with an estimate of water to be used, address and name of who will be responsible for the bill, and the time and date water will be taken from the system. This information will be placed on the appropriate form and signed by the customer or the authorized agent of the customer. The bill will be generated from metered usage readings after the service is used. If an account is to be active more than 60 days, a partial bill will be prepared.
Any party using a hydrant must install an auxiliary control valve on the hydrant. This valve will be used to control the volume of water discharged from the hydrant. Where the use of the water from the hydrant requires backflow prevention, the customer is responsible for the proper installation and operation of the required backflow prevention assembly.
(4) 
Water Bill. The amount to be paid for the water used shall be based upon a standard account: Set-up fee plus a bulk rate charge established by Council resolution.
(5) 
Moving of Fire Hydrants. When a fire hydrant has been installed in the location specified by the proper authority, the utility has fulfilled its obligation. If a property owner or other party desires a change in the size, location, or type of the hydrant, said property owner shall bear all costs of such changes. Any change in the location of a fire hydrant must be approved by the utility and the Fire Department.
(6) 
Charge for Installation and Annual Maintenance for Rural Hydrants.
(a) 
All rural fire hydrants will be installed at cost, providing a utility water main of sufficient size is located in the desired hydrant location.
(b) 
All maintenance for public hydrants shall be the responsibility of the local governmental fire district or City Fire Department district in which they appear.
(c) 
A standby charge for each hydrant shall be charged per the rate resolution.
(7) 
All required new fire hydrants, shall be served by a public water main and shall be owned by the utility.
(Ord. 4664, 1985; Ord. 4878, 1989)
(1) 
The customer shall, at the customer’s own risk and expense, furnish, install, and keep in good and safe condition all equipment that may be required for receiving, controlling, applying, and utilizing water. For all services with meters larger than two inches, this shall include an accessible, unflooded, customer provided and maintained, utility vault of a size specified. Vault metering, piping, and valving shall be as specified. The utility shall not be responsible for any loss or damage caused by the improper installation of such water equipment, or the negligence, want of proper care, or wrongful act of the customer or any of customer’s tenants or agents in installing, maintaining, using, operating, or interfering with such equipment. The utility shall not be responsible for damage to property caused by spigots, faucets, valves, and other equipment that are open when water is turned on at the meter, either when the water is turned on originally or when turned on after a temporary shutdown.
(2) 
No customer shall allow the extension of their service to another property or customer.
(Ord. 4664, 1985; Ord. 4878, 1989)
The customer shall be liable for any damage to a meter or other equipment or property owned by the utility which is caused by an act of the customer, customer’s tenants, or agents. Such damage shall include the breaking or destruction of locks by the customer or others on or near a meter and any damage to a meter that may result from hot water or steam from a boiler or heater on the customer’s premises. The utility shall be reimbursed by the customer for any such damage promptly on presentation of a bill.
(Ord. 4664, 1985; Ord. 4878, 1989)
The utility shall install a suitable control valve on all new customer service lines one inch and smaller. This valve shall be located in the meter box for the convenience of the customer in controlling the entire service line. The valve from that period forward shall be the responsibility of the customer to maintain. Where requested by the customer, the customer shall be responsible for installing a customer control valve on all existing service lines one inch and smaller.
All customers with services larger than one inch shall install their own customer control valve as close to the meter as possible. This valve shall be housed in a separate vault or box. The maintenance of this valve is also the responsibility of the customer.
The operation of the utility’s angle meter valve located on the utility’s side of the meter is not permitted.
(Ord. 4664, 1985; Ord. 4878, 1989)
Customer’s responsibility.
(1) 
No customer shall establish or maintain a cross-connection to the public water supply.
(2) 
If a cross-connection is found in the customer’s water system, the customer will be informed of this condition in writing and given 60 days to correct the problem or install an approved backflow prevention assembly. If the customer does not comply within the 60 days, the provisions of Section 11.01.227 shall be enforced.
(3) 
The customer shall comply with the provisions of Section 11.01.225 of this code.
(4) 
The customer shall own and maintain any required backflow prevention assemblies.
(5) 
The customer shall provide sufficient information for the utility to evaluate the degree of any potential, suspected, or actual cross-connection.
(Ord. 4664, 1985; Ord. 4878, 1989)
(1) 
All backflow prevention assemblies required herein shall be of a type and model approved by the Oregon State Human Resources Department, Health Division (OSHD), and shall be installed in accordance with OSHD requirements and the provisions of subsection (3) of this section.
(2) 
Installation. Backflow prevention assemblies shall be installed by a State-licensed installer, at customer’s expense, on each service line of the customer’s system at or near the property line or, if approved, immediately inside the building being served, but in all cases, before the first branch line leading off the service line wherever any of the following conditions exist:
(a) 
Where there is an auxiliary water supply which is or can be connected to the potable water piping.
(i) 
“Auxiliary water supply” means an additional or supplementary source of water, whether potable or not, and whether currently connected and in use or not, that is present on a property that is also served by a connection to the City’s public water system.
(ii) 
“Is or can be connected” means the auxiliary water supply is or could be connected to piping that is directly or indirectly connected to the public water system.
(b) 
Where there is piping for conveying fluids (liquids or gases) other than potable water and where that piping is installed and operated in a manner which could cause a cross-connection.
(c) 
Where there are intricate plumbing arrangements which make it impracticable to ascertain whether or not cross-connections exist.
(d) 
Where there has been a history of repeating the same or similar cross-connections even though these have been removed or disconnected.
(e) 
Where there is a building over three stories in height or any plumbing system that is greater than or equal to 30 feet above the main from which it is served.
(f) 
Where there is backflow or back siphonage potential.
(g) 
Where the system is not open for inspection.
(h) 
Where the system is subject to being submerged.
(3) 
Device Type. The type of protective assembly required under subsection (2) of this section shall be commensurate with the degree of hazard which exists as follows:
(a) 
Air Gap or Reduced Pressure Assembly. An approved air gap of at least twice the inside diameter, but not less than one inch, of the incoming supply line measured vertically above the top rim of the vessel or an approved reduced pressure principle backflow prevention (RP) assembly shall be installed where the substance which could backflow is a contaminant or hazardous to health. Examples of premises where these conditions may exist include, but are not limited to, sewage treatment plants, pump stations, sewage piping, chemical manufacturing plants, hospitals, mortuaries, plating plants, car washes, medical clinics, and auxiliary water systems.
(b) 
Double Check Valve or Double Detector Check Valve Assembly. An approved double check valve (DC) assembly or double detector check valve (DDC) assembly shall be installed where the substance which could backflow is a secondary contaminant or objectionable but does not pose an unreasonable risk to health.
(c) 
Pressure Vacuum Breaker or Atmospheric Vacuum Breaker. An approved pressure vacuum breaker or an atmospheric vacuum breaker shall be installed where the substance which could backflow is objectionable but does not pose an unreasonable risk to health and where there is no possibility of back pressure in the downstream piping. A shutoff or control valve may be installed on the line downstream of a pressure vacuum breaker but shall not be installed downstream of an atmospheric vacuum breaker.
(4) 
Locations. Examples of locations requiring backflow prevention assembly are listed below, but are not limited to:
(a) 
Irrigation Systems. In the case of irrigation systems, an approved atmospheric vacuum breaker or an approved pressure vacuum breaker may be authorized, provided no back pressure is possible and no chemical or material injection or mixing exists.
(b) 
Private Fire Protection Services. In the case of all private fire protection services, an approved backflow prevention assembly with a monitoring meter or detection system to detect unauthorized use or leakage within the system and a remote meter shall be required. The type of backflow prevention device shall be as follows:
(i) 
An approved double detector check valve assembly shall be required for low and medium hazards. Low and medium hazards are systems with or without pumper connection but no auxiliary water supplies available, chemical or additives, detectable cross-connection, and serving a building three stories or less.
(ii) 
An approved reduced pressure principle backflow prevention assembly and a single detector check shall be required for high hazards. High hazards are systems with auxiliary water supplies, chemical additives, detectable cross-connections, or a building exceeding three stories.
(c) 
New Construction. Where adequate plans and specifications are not available and no realistic evaluation of the proposed water uses can be determined, the installation of maximum backflow protection may be required at the water service connection.
(5) 
Inspections and Leakage Tests. It shall be the duty of the assembly owner at any premises where backflow protective assemblies are installed to have thorough inspections and leakage tests made immediately upon installation of assemblies, when assemblies are moved, and at least once a year, or more often in those instances where successive inspections indicate repeated failure. The frequency of these tests or the replacement of the assembly because of failure shall conform to State of Oregon regulations. The inspections, tests, repairs, and/or replacement of assemblies shall be at the expense of the assembly owner and shall be performed by an assembly tester who is licensed by the Oregon State Health Division. Test and repair or replacement shall be performed within 30 days from receipt of notice to test. The assembly owner is required to contact a tester who can perform the work in the necessary period. The assembly owner shall notify the utility a minimum of 48 hours in advance when the test is to be performed, so that the utility may witness the test if so desired. Records of such tests, repairs, and overhaul shall be kept by the owner and a copy submitted to the utility within 30 days of completed tests.
(Ord. 4664, 1985; Ord. 4878, 1989; Ord. 6067 § 1, 2025)
Water service to the premises may be immediately discontinued or denied by a physical break in the service until the customer has corrected the following conditions as required in AMC §§ 11.01.220 to 11.01.225:
(1) 
In the case of extreme emergency, or where a reduced pressure principle backflow assembly is required, and where an immediate threat to life or public health or water system operation is found to exist.
(2) 
In other cases after a reasonable length of time the test, repairs, and/or replacement of assemblies or any other requirement within these regulations are not performed.
(Ord. 4664, 1985; Ord. 4878, 1989)
(1) 
It is unlawful to allow waste of City water by knowingly or negligently causing, authorizing, or permitting such water to escape from its intended beneficial use into any river, creek, natural watercourse, depression, lake, reservoir, storm sewer, street, highway, road, or ditch.
(2) 
For the purpose of this section:
(a) 
“Waste” means the use of water in excess of the reasonable volume necessary to meet the beneficial use; and
(b) 
“Beneficial use” means the reasonably efficient use of water.
(Ord. 4664, 1985; Ord. 4878, 1989; Ord. 5479 § 1, 2001)
(1) 
The utility shall at all reasonable times have the right to enter or leave the customer’s premises for any purpose properly connected with the service of water.
(2) 
Any inspection or recommendations made by the utility on plumbing or appliances or use of water on the customer’s premises, either as the result of a complaint or otherwise, will be made or offered without charge.
(Ord. 4664, 1985; Ord. 4878, 1989)
The utility shall not be liable for damage resulting from an interruption in service. Temporary shutdowns may be required for improvements and repairs. Whenever possible, and as time permits, all customers affected will be notified prior to such shutdowns. The utility will not be liable for interruption, shortage, or insufficiency of supply, or for any loss or damage occasioned thereby, if caused by accident, act of God, fire, strikes, riots, war, or any other cause not within its control.
(Ord. 4664, 1985; Ord. 4878, 1989)
Except by special agreement with the utility, no customer shall resell any of the water received from the utility, nor shall water from the utility be delivered to premises other than those specified in the application for service.
(Ord. 4664, 1985; Ord. 4878, 1989)
Willful or continued violation of any of the provisions herein established shall be deemed a misdemeanor and anyone convicted of such misdemeanor shall be subject to penalties as provided in AMC § 1.04.010.
(Ord. 4664, 1985; Ord. 4878, 1989)
(1) 
In areas of the City where property owners request local improvement districts in order to improve their streets, storm drainage, and/or sewer system, the following policy for water main and service replacement shall be in effect:
(a) 
Except as specified in AMC § 11.01.120 (2)(f), in areas where no water main exists, such main shall be assessed to the benefitting properties in the local improvement district.
(b) 
In areas of the system where existing lines are of sufficient size but of such age or construction which require excessive maintenance, the replacement of such lines shall be at the utility’s expense.
(c) 
In areas of the system where existing lines are adequate and the replacement or relocation of such lines are necessary primarily to conform to the street, storm, or sewer plans, all costs shall be included in the local improvement district assessments.
(d) 
The cost of all service relocations and/or replacements completed in conjunction with local improvement district projects shall be included in the local improvement district assessments.
(e) 
Where a particular property has frontage on intersecting public rights-of-way, and the property has previously been assessed or paid an in-lieu-of assessment for more than 50 linear feet of water line along either of the frontage, the first 50 linear feet of frontage from the other (second) frontage, may be excluded from the assessment calculation formula used in the establishment of the local improvement district.
(2) 
All fire hydrant requirements within local improvement districts shall be installed under the following policy:
(a) 
In areas where no fire hydrant exists, they shall be included in the local improvement district assessments.
(b) 
In areas where four-inch or smaller hydrants exist, they may be replaced at the utility’s expense.
(c) 
In areas where hydrants exist which are adequate, six inches in size, and relocation or replacement is needed primarily to conform to street, storm, and/or sewer plans, all costs shall be included in the local improvement district assessments.
(Ord. 4664, 1985; Ord. 4878, 1989)
The Public Works Director (“Director”), or his or her designee, upon declaring a severe or critical water supply shortage, may activate some or all of the mandatory restrictions listed in AMC § 11.01.287, in addition to any other curtailment measures the Director deems necessary to respond to a specific event. In general, the Water Curtailment Plan developed under AMC § 11.01.235 will be used to guide activation of curtailment measures. If curtailment measures are activated, the Director shall immediately notify the City Manager and the City Council of the situation and submit a report at the next available meeting of the City Council.
(Ord. 4664, 1985; Ord. 4878, 1989; Ord. 5479 § 1, 2001; Ord. 5770 § 1, 2011)
The list below contains curtailment measures that may be activated by the Public Works Director (“Director”), or his or her designee, per AMC § 11.01.285. Depending on the severity of the event the Director may implement some or all of the curtailment measures. In addition, per AMC § 11.01.285, the Director may implement additional curtailment measures not listed below as required to respond to a specific event. Depending on the circumstances, curtailment measures may apply to the entire water system or smaller, more localized, portions of the water system.
(1) 
Implement an odd/even watering schedule.
(2) 
No watering or irrigating of lawns, grass, or turf unless it is:
(a) 
New lawn, grass, or turf that has been seeded or planted after March 1st of the current calendar year;
(b) 
Athletic fields frequently and currently used for organized play;
(c) 
Golf course tees and greens; and
(d) 
Park and recreation areas of a particular significance and value to the community as approved by the Director in consultation with the Parks and Recreation Director.
(3) 
City-supplied water shall not be used to clean, fill, or maintain levels in decorative fountains in commercial or institutional settings, except for fountains that recycle their water.
(4) 
City-supplied water shall not be used to wash sidewalks, walkways, streets, driveways, parking lots, or other hard-surfaced areas except where necessary for public health or safety.
(5) 
City-supplied water shall not be used to wash vehicles, except for commercial carwash facilities that are using water-recycling equipment.
(6) 
For City parks supplied by City water, the Parks and Recreation Department shall limit non-essential water use and/or irrigate only during off-peak hours as specified by the Director in consultation with the Parks and Recreation Director.
(7) 
Hydrant and water main flushing shall be done for emergencies only.
(8) 
All outdoor non-essential water use shall be prohibited except where necessary for public health and safety.
(9) 
All large industrial and institutional accounts shall restrict water use to only fire protection and other critical functions as approved by the Director.
(10) 
During a catastrophic loss of supply or when a drought declared preference for human consumption is implemented in accordance with OAR 690-019-0070, uses other than for human consumption and emergency services will not be allowed.
(11) 
In the event that a citation is issued during the period of activated emergency measures for a violation of this section or AMC § 11.01.230, and the Director determines that a second violation has occurred after the date of the citation and during the same emergency curtailment period, the Director may:
(a) 
Install a flow restrictor on the street side of the water meter; or
(b) 
Terminate water service.
(Ord. 5770 § 1, 2011)
The utility shall have sole authority to make discretionary determinations required by this code. Such discretionary determinations are required where the code calls for approvals, determinations, reasonableness, authorization, standards (or reductions thereof), judgments, estimates, requirements, sufficiency, options, impacts upon the water system and/or customers thereof, and similar words or phrases. In each case where such words or phrases are stated or implied, they shall be understood to mean “subject to the approval or determination of the utility.”
Said discretionary determinations shall be based upon the following criteria: Anticipated impacts upon sufficiency and reliability of the water system; the water system facility plan; sound engineering practices in the field of municipal services; financial impacts; service to other properties; the potential to establish precedent; and the impacts of alternative actions.
(Ord. 4664, 1985; Ord. 4878, 1989)
The approvals and determinations referenced in AMC § 11.01.300 shall be made by the City Manager of the City of Albany or the City Manager’s authorized representative. Appeals of the decisions of the City Manager or the City Manager’s authorized representative must be made to the Public Works Committee of the City of Albany by filing a written notice of appeal with the City Recorder within 30 days of the initial determination by the City Manager or the City Manager’s authorized representative. The notice of appeal shall include a brief statement of the action or decision from which the appeal is taken, the relief sought, and the material facts claimed to support the contentions of the appellant. Upon receipt of a notice of appeal, the Public Works Committee shall schedule a hearing on said appeal and notify the appellant thereof. A decision shall be rendered by the Public Works Committee on the appeal within 120 days of the filing of the notice of appeal. At the appeal hearing, the City Manager or the City Manager’s authorized representative shall present to the Public Works Committee a response to the statement in the notice of appeal. Only those matters or issues specifically raised by the appellant in the notice of appeal or included in the response by the City Manager or the City Manager’s authorized representative shall be considered in review of the appeal. The Public Works Committee may affirm the decision of the City Manager or the City Manager’s authorized representative, modify the decision, or reverse the decision entirely.
The decisions of the Public Works Committee may, in turn, be appealed by either party to the City Council of the City of Albany by filing a written notice of appeal with the City Recorder within 30 days of the determination by the Public Works Committee. The notice of appeal shall include a brief statement of the action or decision appealed, the relief sought, and the material facts claimed to support the contentions of the appellant. Upon receipt of the notice of appeal the City Council shall, within 60 days, schedule a time to consider said appeal. The City Council may hear the appeal de novo or on the record made by the Public Works Committee. If a hearing is held before the City Council, the same procedures shall be used as set for a hearing before the Public Works Committee and the City Council shall have the power to affirm, modify, or reverse the decision of the Public Works Committee. The City Council shall decide the appeal within 120 days of the filing of the notice of appeal from the Public Works Committee decision. All decisions of the City Council shall be final.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, should the City Manager or the City Manager’s authorized representative determine that the issue under consideration is of broad public interest or that concerns of timeliness necessitate a prompt resolution of any appeal, the City Manager or the City Manager’s authorized representative may direct the initial appeal to the City Council, without the necessity of consideration by the Public Works Committee in which event, the City Council shall first hear the appeal and shall render a decision within 120 days of the filing of the notice of appeal.
(Ord. 4664, 1985; Ord. 4878, 1989)
If any clause, sentence, paragraph, section, article, or portion of this chapter for any reason shall be adjudged invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction, such judgment shall not affect, impair, or invalidate the remainder of this chapter, but shall be confined in its operation to the clause, sentence, paragraph, section, or portion of this chapter directly involved in the controversy in which judgment is rendered.
(Ord. 4664, 1985; Ord. 4878, 1989)
(Repealed by Ord. 5565)