Report: High Number of Leaks in City Water System

A city-commissioned report found a high number of leaks in Glendora’s water system compared to other cities of similar size.

The research firm Management Partners determined 16 water leaks monthly in the city’s aging water system, far more than surrounding local cities.

The report, presented to the city council Tuesday evening, also detailed budget, staffing and workload issues within the city’s water division.

While the research praised the water division’s overall performance, it outlined specific areas of improvement, including constant leaks in the city’s 70-year-old water infrastructure.

According to Management Partners’ advisor James Ross, the majority of the leaks were found in the city’s main lines.

The water leaks have been an ongoing issue with the city’s water division. City officials have said leaks have cost the city thousands of dollars annually to repair.

Also adding to the city’s expenditures is the city’s “complex” water system, according to the report. Ross told the council the city has far more reservoirs and booster pump stations than other cities of similar size.

“As a consequence, you’re going to find out that your expenditures on a per capita basis are slightly higher than the norm,” said Ross.

In 2003, the city entered into a Capital Improvement Program to address more than $125 million worth of remaining water master plan improvements. Water rates have also steadily increased over the years to help fund infrastructure repairs, with the council voting in November 2011 to 17 percent over the next five years.

“We have addressed the issues (regarding our water system) and have tried to explain to the public that it is necessary because of our aging infrastructure,” said City Councilmember Karen Davis.

Research Partner Cathy Sandiford also recommended that the city consider an outside contractor to assist city staff in repairing the leaks, especially in an event of a major disaster or multiple leaks.