§ 19-18. Service shut off and on.

(a)

Water shall not be shut off for nonpayment of a water bill until notice of an opportunity for a hearing has first been given the occupant of the premises involved. The notice shall state that if payment is not made before a day stated in the notice, but not less than 30 days after the date on which the notice is given, the water supply to the premises will be shut off. The notice shall also state that the occupant may, before such date, demand a hearing on the matter. If the customer requests a hearing before the date specified, a hearing shall be held on the matter by the city council at its next regular meeting, but not to exceed three weeks after the date on which the request is made. If as a result of the hearing, the city council finds that the amount claimed to be owing is actually due and unpaid and that there is no legal reason why the water supply of the delinquent customer may not be shut off, the city may shut off the supply.

(b)

It is unlawful for any person, firm, or corporation to turn on or off any water control valve installed on the city water supply system on city property, right-of-way, or easement. This includes, but is not limited to, all fire hydrants, water main control valves, water service control valves for industrial and commercial properties and curb stops for residential water services. The following are exempted by this prohibition:

(1)

City employees that are authorized to maintain the city water distribution system, or who have administrative approval.

(2)

Emergency personnel affiliated with the city for use in emergency situations. This includes the fire department.

(3)

Persons having written approval in their immediate possession from the utility superintendent.

(4)

Plumbers may turn on water service control valves and curb stops located on private property after the water meter is installed.

Properties with water turned on without authorization shall be charged a $100.00 service and water use fee. Properties with new structures under construction shall be required to pay the fee before the certificate of occupancy is issued.

(Ord. No. 6, § 10.01, 3-11-85; Ord. No. 168, § 1, 4-27-92; Ord. No. 362, § 1, 12-8-03)