30 May 2018
Posted by BP Journal The City of Corpus Christi is facing fines of more than $12,000 following an investigation by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. The investigation was a result of 13 complaints made in 2015 and 2016 against the O.N. Stevens Water Treatment Plant.
The enforcement matter published (Case No. 51333) included the following complaints:
- Alleges the public water system is inadequately maintained and operated, has difficulty maintaining the minimum pressure within the system, possible cross contamination and failure to notify the public.
- Concern with reoccurring discoloration problems in the drinking water. Also concerned that fluoride is no longer added to the drinking water for dental health.
- Concern with the minimum disinfectant level being maintained in the distribution system and possible bacteria in the water.
- Concern with the discoloration and quality of water.
- Concern with the high disinfectant levels in the drinking water due to their sensitivity to chlorine.
Some of the violations included:
- Failed to use gauges in the testing of backflow prevention assemblies that have been tested for accuracy annually [30 TEX. ADMIN. CODE § 290.44(h)(4)(B].
- Failed to ensure that all backflow prevention assemblies which are installed to provide protection against health hazards are tested on an annual basis by a recognized backflow assembly tester and certify that they are operating within specifications [30 TEX. ADMIN. CODE § 290.44(h)(4)].
- Failed to ensure that a backflow prevention assembly or an air gap is installed at all residences and establishments where an actual or potential contamination hazard exists, as identified in 30 TEX. ADMIN. CODE § 290.47(f) [30 TEX. ADMIN. CODE § 290.44(h)(1)(A)].
The total penalty assessed is $12,403, according to the report.
Corrective action has already been completed by the city on some of the violations, including testing. The city can avoid the fine by putting the money into a “Supplemental Environmental Project (“SEP”)” which is subject to conditions set by the TCEQ.
