HomeMy WebLinkAboutE-1.1. Adoption of ALW Cross-Connection Control PlanSCHEDULED ITEM E-1
TO: HONORABLE CHAIRPERSON AND MEMBERS OF THE AZUSA UTILITY BOARD
FROM: TIKAN SINGH, GENERAL MANAGER
DATE: JUNE 23, 2025
SUBJECT: ADOPTION OF AZUSA LIGHT AND WATER CROSS-CONNECTION CONTROL
PLAN
BACKGROUND:
In December 2023, the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) adopted the Cross-Connection
Control Policy Handbook (CCCPH). The CCCPH establishes statewide standards for protecting potable
water systems from contamination caused by backflow or cross-connections. All public water systems
must adopt a Cross-Connection Control Plan (CCCP) that complies with the CCCPH by July 1, 2025.
In response, Azusa Light & Water (ALW) has completed a comprehensive revision of its Cross-
Connection Control Program to align with state guidelines and ensure long-term protection of the potable
water distribution system. ALW developed a CCCP that includes hazard assessment procedures, user
responsibilities, device testing and certification protocols, system-wide evaluation commitments,
enforcement provisions, and coordination with local and county agencies.
ALW currently maintains local authority to implement and enforce cross-connection requirements through
Water Utility Rule No. 20 – Cross-Connection Control, which outlines standards for backflow prevention,
service protection, and enforcement. Rule No. 20 has been updated to ensure full alignment with the
CCCPH and to reflect the policies and enforcement provisions defined in the CCCP.
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends that the Utility Board take the following actions:
1) Approve Resolution No. 2025-UB-04 Adopting ALW’s Cross Connection Control Plan.
2)Authorize the General Manager or designee to implement the Plan and make minor administrative
revisions as needed to remain in compliance with state policy and regulatory updates.
Approved
Utility Board
06/23/2025
Adoption of ALW Cross-Connection Control Plan
June 23, 2025
Page 2
ANALYSIS:
An effective Cross-Connection Control Program is essential to better serve the community. The Cross
Connection Control Plan (CCCP) provides ALW with a comprehensive framework to identify and
mitigate cross-connection hazards, prevent backflow incidents, and maintain the safety of the public water
supply. Staff has prepared the CCCP in accordance with regulations set forth by the SWRCB and exceeds
state requirements by implementing a system-wide evaluation cycle, formalizing the role of User
Supervisors for high-risk sites, and emphasizing property owner cost responsibility.
The Plan and UB Resolution 2025-UB-04 enhance ALW’s legal authority for enforcement under Water
Utility Rule No. 20, and includes internal procedures for testing, inspection, recordkeeping, and public
outreach. The plan also drives several key updates to Water Utility Rule No. 20, including a formal system-
wide hazard assessment cycle, expanded criteria for classifying high-risk sites, and establishes clearer
enforcement timelines for test compliance and service termination. Additionally, the Plan formalizes the
role of a User Supervisor at designated high-risk premises and reinforces that the installation,
maintenance, and annual testing of backflow prevention assemblies, including cage protection, are the full
financial responsibility of the water user. These enhancements strengthen ALW’s regulatory framework,
improve enforceability, and ensure full alignment with the Cross-Connection Control Policy Handbook
(CCCPH).
Plan compliance and day-to-day administration are led by ALW’s Water Distribution Services Specialist,
who is responsible for executing hazard assessments, coordinating enforcement actions, maintaining
program records, and ensuring timely reporting to the State Water Resources Control Board. The
Specialist operates under the direct supervision of the Water Distribution Superintendent, with additional
oversight provided by the Assistant General Manager – Water Operations and the General Manager.
Customer engagement is a key component of the Plan’s success. The Water Distribution Services
Specialist serves as the primary point of contact for property owners, contractors, and businesses and is
expected to provide clear, respectful, and solution-focused communication. The goal is to support
customer understanding, encourage collaboration, and promote shared responsibility for protecting the
public water supply.
Adopting this CCCP reflects ALW’s ongoing commitment to delivering safe, reliable drinking water to
the community. It strengthens regulatory compliance, enhances operational readiness, and provides a
strong foundation for long-term public health protection and customer trust.
Adoption of ALW Cross-Connection Control Plan
June 23, 2025
Page 3
FISCAL IMPACT:
There are no fiscal impacts related to adopting the Cross Connection Control Plan.
Prepared by: Prepared by:
Maurice de Graaf Gabriela Enriquez
Water Distribution Services Specialist Management Analyst
Prepared by: Reviewed and Approved:
Marc Lucas, PE Melissa Barbosa
Senior Water System Engineer Assistant General Manager -
Water Operations
Reviewed and Approved: Reviewed and Approved:
Danny Smith Tikan Singh
Utilities Admin & Finance Manager General Manager
Reviewed and Approved:
Sergio Gonzalez
City Manager
Attachments:
1) ALW Cross-Connection Control Plan
2) Resolution No. 2025-UB-04
3) Water Utility Rule No. 20