09-12-2022 BPU RPT 10 - Laserfiche WebLink

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RIVERSIDE PUBLIC UTILITIES Board Memorandum BOARD OF PUBLIC UTILITIES DATE: SEPTEMBER 12 , 2022 SUBJECT: ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF RIVERSIDE, CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING CHAPTER 14.23 OF THE RIVERSIDE MUNICIPAL CODE TO PROHIBIT AND ENFORCE WATER THEFT AND UNAUTHORIZED WATER USE ISSUE: Consider recommending that the City Council adopt an ordinance for Chapter 14.23 of the Riverside Municipal Code to prohibit and enforce water theft and unauthorized water use. RECOMMENDATION: That the Board of Public Utilities recommend that the City Council adopt an ordinance for Chapter 14.23 of the Riverside Municipal Code to prohibit and enforce water theft and unauthorized water use. BACKGROUND: On January 12, 2022, the Water Committee received a presentation on Water Loss - that proposed efforts to reduce water loss, assist in meeting upcoming State compliance requirements, and identify recoverable losses when economically feasible. Introducing a water theft ordinance to deter unauthorized consumption can help meet the goals mentioned with minimal costs to the City. California Governor approved Senate Bill 427 on July 23, 2021, which authorizes a local legislative body to adopt a water theft ordinance and specify specific fine amounts. It also defines water theft, found in the California Penal Code section 498. This process requires the adoption of an ordinance. DISCUSSION: The California Government Code §53069.45 defines Water Theft as an action to divert, tamper, or reconnect water utility services. Violators of this section will be liable for the total costs incurred by Riverside Public Utilities (RPU) to respond to an unauthorized or improper connection. Using water from the water system without s authorization is considered a crime, and unauthorized through higher rates. Illegal hydrant tapping increases the risk of water hammer occurring and