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Brush and Bulky Items

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1. Does the bulky item crew pick up old tires that have been dumped in my alley.

As a general rule the sanitation department does not pickup tires. You may call the sanitation department at 325-643-4200 to report the location of tires for future reference, you may take them to the recycling center for disposal, or take them to the annual City wide cleanup held in April under the Austin Avenue Overpass for free disposal.

2. Are Brush and Bulky items picked up at the same time that my trash container is emptied?

We have a brush and debris crew that attends to your brush/bulky item pickup separate from the residential garbage pickup. You may place a request by completing an online form 24/7, by calling sanitation department (325) 643-4200, or by leaving a voicemail after hours > please indicate the address and location on the property - curb or alley (brush and debris must be placed curbside if your trash is picked up curbside).

3. Can you pick up items off my porch?

City employees are not permitted to go on private property to collect items to be disposed of.

4. I cleand out my storage unit, will you pick up my items left?

This service is not available to: Commercial Customers, Apartments, Schools, Churches, Evictions, or Storage Units.

5. How should I place my items for pick up?

Waste shall be stacked away from mail boxes, fences, poles, cars, and low hanging wires.

6. Can I just put all my items in a pile for pick up?

Items to be collected must be segregated according to type; brush, furniture or metals. Mixed piles will not be collected.

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Building & Permits

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1. What building codes has the city of Brownwood adopted?

The City of Brownwood has adopted the following codes:
- 2009 International Building Code
- 2009 International Residential Code
- 2009 International Plumbing Code
- 2009 International Fuel Gas Code
- 2009 International Mechanical (HVAC) Code
- 2011 National Electric Code
- 2009 International Fire Code
- 2009 International Energy Conservation Code
- 2009 International Property Maintenance Code
- 2009 International Existing Building Code

2. Do I need permits?

In general permits and the resulting inspections are required for work including: foundation, framing and structural roofing members; room additions; new or replaced doors, windows, sheet rock, electrical wiring, water, sewer and gas piping, installing a fence taller than 6’, building a driveway, installing a pre-fabricated storage building.

3. When is a permit not required?

Permits and inspections are not required for painting and the replacement of non-structural roof covering; e.g., shingles, asphalt.

4. Do I need a fence permit?

Permits for fences less than 6’ in height are not required. The height of the fence is limited to 4’ in the front yard and cannot interfere with traffic sight distances at corners.

5. Can I do my own electrical, plumbing and mechanical work?

State law only allows licensed tradesmen to perform this work with permits secured from the City with the only exception being that Homesteaders living in the residence are allowed to perform the work with appropriate permits and inspections.

6. Do I need a business license?

No, you do not need a business license. However, a Certificate of Occupancy may be required. Please call to discuss your particular circumstances.

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Commercial Garbage

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1. Why was the can right next to mine emptied but mine was not?

The commercial division offers collection from one to six times per week. The neighboring business may have requested a different pickup day or may be paying for more or less pickups than you currently are. All commercial cans should be labeled with the pickup days. For example: M/TH = Monday and Thursday.

2. How often will my trash be picked up?

Commercial customers are offered pickup any where from 1 - 6 times per week. To qualify for Saturday pickup you must be paying for 4 pickups per week.

3. I would like a one time extra pick up for my commercial dumpster, Can this be done?

A special pick up can be requested by calling the Sanitation Department at 325-643-4200 (we call this a Hotshot). The fee is based on a prorated charge for dumpster pickup or $48.50 per dumpster emptied, whichever is greater. There must be someone there to authorize and sign a ticket before the driver can perform the hotshot.

4. My commercial dumpster smells awful, can I get it deodorized? Is there a fee?

There is a $35.00 fee for each dumpster that is deodorized. You may make a request by calling the sanitation department at 325-643-4200.

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Development Services Department

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1. What department receives complaints of public nuisance due to trash, open storage, dillapidated buildings, tall grass & excessive vegetation?

The Code Compliance Group of the Development Services Department receives these complaints. Call 325-646-5331 to report the offense. Be sure to request the case number for future reference.

2. What is “open storage”?

Open storage refers to the storage of items normally kept within a structure (appliances, building materials, furniture, mattresses, etc…) and items in such disrepair they cannot be used for the designed purpose (old travel trailers, rotted lawn furniture) and/or trash in open view.

3. Will I be required to give my name or testify in a property code violation I report?

Individuals reporting Property Code Violations are generally not asked to testify or even give their name. A property code violation is visible to the investigating Code Compliance Officer so unlike a crime whose evidence is the occurrence of a past event requiring witnesses to prove the Officer will file the complaint based on their own observations.

4. When did the city of Brownwood adopt Zoning Codes?

In 1950 the City of Brownwood enacted the Zoning Code (Chapter 98 of the City Code of Ordinances) which identifies areas of land used for commercial, industrial and residential purposes. The Zoning Code addresses many activities that are authorized and construction types that can be used. Please call to ask questions about your particular circumstances.

5. What is a sub-standard structure?

Chapter 26 of the City Code of Ordinances defines a sub-standard building as a structure having one or more structural, electrical, plumbing, weatherproofing deficiencies to an extent the structure is not safe. The owner of such a structure may be subject to action by the Building and Standards Commission which can assess Civil Penalties and order abatement at the owner’s expense up to and including demolition of the structure and clearing of the land.

6. How many dogs or cats can I have?

The City Ordinances allow a total of 4 dogs or cats in any combination.

7. Can I keep cows, llamas, chickens or other farm animals at my residence?

The Zoning Code allows for some animals in some locations but there are limits to the number of animals relative to the available, “free-roaming” space and requirements for shelter/containment and distances from adjacent properties. Call to check before you bring such an animal into the City Limits.

8. Can I keep a pig as a pet?

Chapter 14 of the City Code of Ordinances does not allow for any swine animals to be kept within the City Limits. This includes so-called mini-pigs, Julian pigs and pet pigs.

9. Can a code compliance officer issue a citation?

In general Code Compliance Officers will seek alternatives to such action. However, Code Compliance Officers are authorized to issue citations requiring persons to appear at Municipal Court to answer for offenses. The Code Compliance Officer may also choose to file charges with the Court which will then notify the person charged with an offense. Repeat offenders may expect citation or summons to court.

10. Should my house or commercial building have address numbers?

Yes, your house or commercial building should have address numbers. In order to assist fire, police and ambulances the City Code of Ordinances requires structures to display 4” tall numbers visible from the street in a color contrasting with the mounting surface.

11. Can I operate a business out of my home?

In some instances, this is allowed. However, there are limitations as to the type, signs more than 1 square foot are not allowed, no activity or storage suggesting the structure is used for anything except residential is permitted which includes customers coming to and from the property. Reference City of Brownwood Code of Ordinances “Home Occupations” section.

12. Can I get relief from the Zoning Ordinances?

The Zoning Board of Adjustment can be asked to grant Variances and Special Exceptions depending upon particular circumstances. One must submit an application for variance/special exception and pay a $150 non-refundable fee.

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General

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1. Where can I report illegal dumping and other code violations?

Code violations in the City of Brownwood can be reported by calling 325-646-5775, or by filling out the following form. Code Enforcement Violaton Notification

2. Where do I go to set up water service?

Water Utilities are located at Brownwood City Hall, 501 Center Ave. 8-5 M-F. To set up new service, you will need a valid Drivers License, renter's agreement or resident information and the deposit for service.

3. What day is my trash picked up?

The City of Brownwood runs a rotating schedule, contact Sanitation at 325 643-4200 for information on your route.

4. Who do I contact about problems with my street?

The street department handles road repair, signs and signals within the city limits of Brownwood. They can be reached at 325 643-4200.

5. Where can I get a copy of an Accident Report?

Contact the Brownwood Police Department, Records Division at 325 646-6862 M-F 7:00 AM - 4:30 PM for information on Crash Reports.

6. Where can I go for immunizations for school or travel?

The Brownwood/Brown County Health Department offers a variety of immunizations through several programs such as Texas Vaccines for Children (TVFC), Medicaid, CHiPS, and private vaccines. Several other health services are also provided. Contact the Brownwood/Brown County Health Department at 325 646-0554.

7. How can I rent a pavilion at a park for a party?

The City of Brownwood Parks Department rents the coliseum, rooms at the Lehnis Train Museum, pavilions, and other facilities for birthdays, weddings, any celebration gathering. Contact the Parks Department at 325 646-3586 for reservations.

8. How I dispose of a deceased pet?

To dispose of deceased pet or report a dead animal please call Animal Control at 325-646-2525. To assist with this process please report a specific location or landmark. Animal Control

9. Where do I dispose of old tires?

The landfill will accepts sliced or shredded tires @ a charge of $40.00 per ton, and the recycling center will accept tires. Call the landfill for more information at 325-646-6574, and the recycling center at 325-641-8832.

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Homeowners

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1. Can I live in my travel trailer?

The only location travel trailers can be lived in is within a Recreational Vehicle Park.

2. Is my water dangerous?

The City of Brownwood ensures water meets the State Standards for potable drinking water. Sometimes water systems draw water into the mains from other sources such as water sprinkler systems, doctor’s offices, mortuaries, water hoses laying on the ground or in a livestock watering tank. The City seeks to eliminate such “cross contamination” sources by requiring plumbing permits be issued and inspected by State Licensed Plumbing Inspectors.

3. What is excessive vegetation?

Excessive vegetation is defined as grass, weeds and other plant growth which is more than 12” tall or causes hazard due to fire or is a harborage for insects, snakes and other vermin.

4. Who is responsible for mowing the alley and area between curb and property line?

The adjacent property owner is responsible for maintaining these areas.

5. Do I need a permit to host a garage sale?

A garage sale is identified as a sale of unwanted items from a residential property held a couple of times a year for no more than a couple of days. A permit is not required for such activity. Note that sales cannot be permanent, frequent and goods cannot be stored outside.

6. Can I post signs for my garage sale or other event?

Both State Law and City Ordinances prohibit the placement of signs on Utility Poles or in City Right of Way. City Staff will remove and dispose of any found.
Most other signs require a permit be issued or placed in specific locations on private property. Please call Development Services at 325-646-5331 to discuss your particular circumstances.

7. Can I keep a junked vehicle?

State Law and City Ordinances declare junked vehicles to be a public nuisance and subject to abatement in accordance with the Texas Litter Abatement Act. Junked vehicles are vehicles which are wrecked and or dismantled, do not have current registration or inspection and have been parked in plain sight on private property for more than 30 days or a public street for more than 3 days. Such vehicles may be seized as a result of legal, due process.

8. Can I park a vehicle in the front yard?

Yes, you may park a vehicle in the front yard unless it kills the grass, causes dust and/or mud to be blown about or tracked onto pubic streets.

9. Can I park a vehicle on the sidewalk or straddling the curb?

No, you may not park a vehicle on the sidewalk or straddling the curb. It is against both State Law and City Ordinance to park on a sidewalk.

10. Can I park my semi-tractor truck and trailer, RV, travel or utility trailer on a residential street?

The parking of any over sized vehicle or any type of trailer on a street in a zone designated for residential use is prohibited.

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Landfill

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1. Can anyone use the landfill?

Yes. Being a resident of the City of Brownwood is not a requirement to use the city landfill.

2. Do I have to weigh in and out at the Landfill?

Yes, it is required that all vehicles be weighed in at the scale house upon arrival, then again on departure in order to get the weight without the load. Through this weighing process, the daily incoming waste tonnage can be calculated and listed in databases for record keeping.

3. Do I have to pay in order to use the landfill? Even if I bring my water bill?

Yes! Everyone that uses our facility is charged. Fee's vary according to where you reside and what you are bringing in. See our current rate ordinance no.14-16 for rates. Fee's are subject to change.

RATE ORDINANCE

4. What forms of payment does the Landfill accept?

We accept cash, check, Master card or Visa.

5. Last week I took a pick-up load of trash and it was $5.00. This week I had a trailer load w/ fencing and the fee was $21. Why the difference?

Under the current rate ordinance no.14-15 Brownwood residents are charged $5.00 per pickup load $7.00 for a pickup and trailer. ***This does not include construction or demolition debris which is charged at the gate rate of $40.00 per ton. Fencing is considered construction or demolition debris. The gate attendant charged the correct fee for the materials brought for disposal. Give us a call at 325-646-6574 for additional information. RATE ORDINANCE NO. 14-15

6. Where can I take my old TV, computer monitor or other electronic items that I want to get rid of.

If you are wanting to recycle your electronic items the recycling center located at the entrance to City of Brownwood Landfill is open Monday - Saturday 8 to 4:30. Some fee's may apply. Call 325-641-8832 for additional information.

See sanitation page for information on free brush/bulky item pickup.

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Parks & Recreation

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1. What are the hours that the pavilions can be rented.

Hours
The Camp Bowie Family Aquatic Center will open Sunday May 31st 2015 from 1 - 6 p.m. We will be offering 2 daily swim sessions and will also have extended hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays until 8 p.m. for family swim time.
Mondays - Closed
Tuesdays
Session 1 - 10:15 a.m. - 1:45 p.m.
Session 2 - 2:15 - 8 p.m.
Wednesdays
Session 1 - 10:15 a.m. - 1:45 p.m.
Session 2 - 2:15 p.m. - 5:45 p.m.
Thursdays
Session 1 - 10:15 a.m. - 1:45 p.m.
Session 2 - 2:15 - 8 p.m.
Fridays
Session 1 - 10:15 a.m. - 1:45 p.m.
Session 2 - 2:15 - 5:45 p.m.
Saturdays
Session 1 - 10:15 a.m. - 1:45 p.m.
Session 2 - 2:15 - 5:45 p.m.
Sundays - 1 - 6 p.m.

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Pools

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1. Seasonal Openings

First Tuesday of June

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Recycling Center

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1. What items are accepted at the Recycling center?

Follow link for a list of accepted items of call 325-641-8832 for additional information.

LINK

2. The item I want to recycle has a recycling symbol on it but you won’t accept it at your facility for recycling. Why?

As much as we would like to recycle every item that is brought to our facility, it comes down to a matter of market demand. We cannot collect and process materials if we have no one to buy them within a reasonable distance of our location. Also, if we include too much “Non grade” material mixed in with the recyclables that we do accept, then we risk getting an even lower price for our material or even losing buyers for the product that we do have.

3. Do my containers need to be clean when I bring them out?

Yes. For glass jars, glass bottles and plastic bottles, we do ask that you rinse and remove the lids. We also ask that you give your metal food cans a rinse to remove any food debris as well.

4. Can plastic bags be recycled with plastic bottles?

No. The plastic bottles will have to be removed from the plastic bags before being put into the designated dumpster. We do not recycle the plastic bags at our facility.

5. Can I recycle aluminum foil with the aluminum cans?

No. Because of the possibility of food contamination with the aluminum foil, we only accept aluminum beverage cans for recycling at our facility.

6. When do you have mulch for sale and will you load it for me?

We typically have mulch for sale all year round.

We will be glad to load the mulch for you providing we have enough staff and equipment available. Please call us before coming out so we can try to have staff and equipment on hand.

7. Can I just show up to get some mulch?

We ask that you please call ahead of time to make sure that we have the staff and the equipment to be able to get it loaded for you.

8. Do I have to take the refrigerant out of the refrigerator or freezer before I bring it to you?

No. We have certified staff members who will recover the refrigerant and dispose of it properly. However, we do ask that you remove all food, trash, loose shelving, and any drawers that may still be inside prior to bringing it to the recycling center.

9. What type of paint can I bring to the recycling center?

We accept latex paint with the original label for recycling. Paint must be from a residential source, and will not be accepted from a business or any other commercial source. Spray paint cans will be accepted for recycling also. There is also a 10 gallon limit on buckets of paint, and a 10 can limit on spray paint.

10. Will there be someone there to unload my recyclable items?

If we have someone available we can assist you, but be prepared to unload it yourself.

11. I am interested in the pulverized glass, does the recycling center provide containers for this?

Pulverized glass is available at no charge to the public upon availability, but at this time we do not provide containers. We do not have staff available to assist in loading so be prepared to load it yourself and please bring your own container.

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Sanitation

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1. I placed a bag of trash beside my container; why wasn't it picked up?

We do not allow the drivers to get out of the truck to collect extra garbage placed beside the container. The routes are constructed so that the driver has very limited time between stops, this keeps the required number of trucks to a minimum. If we started collecting every extra bag on a route we would never make it to the end of the route. If you can catch the driver while he is there he will be glad to wait while you reload the can for him to empty. If you frequently have more trash than your cart will hold you can request a second cart.

2. How can I get an additional 96 gallon rollout cart for my residence?

If you currently have a roll-out garbage cart that you place curbside for Sanitation department to pick up twice a week. You may request a second cart by calling Utility Billing at (325) 646-9700.

3. How often will my trash be picked up?

The sanitation department collects solid waste once per week for residential alley dumpsters and twice per week for residential roll-out containers. Commercial customers are emptied from 1 to 6 times per week depending on what they are paying for.

4. What time will my curbside trash be collected on my designated day?

Specific times vary, but your garbage must be at the curb at 7:00 a.m. to ensure pick-up. Please leave your cart out until 3:30 p.m. regardless of the time the driver normally picks it up, to allow for back up drivers, vehicle break downs and unforeseen circumstances.

5. How do I know which cart belongs to me?

Every cart has a number on it, which is assigned to your address. If your cart goes missing and you have found one that you believe is yours, please call (325) 643-4200 to get the number for your cart to make sure it is the correct one.  

6. There is a dead animal near my home. Can I throw it in the dumpster?

Deceased Animal Disposal
To dispose of deceased pet or report a dead animal please call Animal Control  at 325-646-2525. To assist with this process please report a specific location or landmark.

The link below will take you to Animal Control's page. 

Animal Control

7. I am a new resident, how do I start sanitation services? Will I receive a roll-out cart?

If you live within Brownwood city limits or its extra territorial jurisdiction you may call the Utility Billing department at (325) 646-9700 to establish new service. The Utility Billing office is located at Brownwood City Hall, 501 Center Ave. 8-5 M-F. To set up new service, you will need a valid Drivers License, renter's agreement or resident information and the deposit for service. Once your request has been verified, a work order will be initiated and if you live in an area that is supplied with blue or green roll-out carts, a new cart along with instructional paperwork should be delivered to your home within a couple of days. If you do not receive a cart check your alley for dumpster access, if there are no dumpster within two houses call sanitation department to check for adequate quantity of dumpsters in the alley or to make sure that a work order was initiated to set a roll-out cart.

8. Where do I need to put my bulky items for pick up?

Items must be left at the curb if you have curbside solid waste pickup. Please do not place them on the ground right next to your dumpster as the driver will not be able to empty your trash can. Items may be placed in the alley ONLY if solid waste is collected from the alley. Please be aware of water or gas meter's when placing your items!

9. Who do i contact if my dumpster needs to be repaired?

Call the sanitation department at 325-643-4200. Office hours are Monday thru Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. A voicemail may be left after hours. Please indicate the type of dumpster that needs repair (metal, black plastic, blue or green rollout cart) and if commercial the name of the business.

10. Will you come out to Lake Brownwood to pick up my garbage?

The Lake Brownwood area is considered outside city limits. Here are a few options for you to try: Refuse collection and disposal services outside Brownwood city limits include: Waste Connections: 1-800-350-3024, Republic Services 1-800-374-4234,
Ace Disposal for large capacity container rental only: 1-325-646-8589

11. Can you pick up items off my porch?

City employees are not permitted to go on private property to collect items for disposal.

12. Who is responsible for mowing the alley and area between curb and property line?

The adjacent property owner is responsible for maintaining these areas.

13. Can I just put all my items in a pile for pick up?

Items to be collected must be segregated according to type; brush, furniture or metals. Mixed piles will not be collected.

14. What is going to happen when my trash pick up date falls on a holiday?

If your trash collection day falls on a holiday, your trash will be picked up that week on another day in order to continue providing convenient service and to avoid trash building up for an additional week. When your trash will be collected depends on the day of the week on which the holiday falls: Link:

2018-2019 Holiday Waste Collection Schedule

15. How should I place my items for pick up?

Waste shall be stacked away from mail boxes, fences, poles, cars, and low hanging wires.

16. Are Brush and Bulky items picked up at the same time that my trash container is emptied?

We have a brush and debris crew that attends to your brush/bulky item pickup separate from the residential garbage pickup. You may place a request by completing an online form 24/7, by calling sanitation department 8 to 5, or by leaving a voicemail after hours > please indicate the address and location on the property - curb or alley (brush and debris must be placed curbside if your trash is picked up curbside). Brush and Bulky Item Pickup Request - E-form link

17. I cleaned out my storage unit, will you pick up my items left?

This service is not available to: Commercial Customers, Apartments, Schools, Churches, Evictions, or Storage Units.

18. What department receives complaints of public nuisance due to trash, open storage, dillapidated buildings, tall grass & excessive vegetation?

The Code Compliance Group of the Development Services Department receives these complaints. Call 325-646-5331 to report the offense. Be sure to request the case number for future reference.

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Seniors

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1. What is the cost per meal?

The cost per meal is a suggested donation of $2.00 for seniors 60 and over. If you are visiting with a senior the required cost is $3.25.

2. Do you have to be a member to eat at the Senior Citizens Center?

We do not have memberships. We do have paperwork that has to be completed on each client over the age of 60.

3. Where is the food cooked?

We prepare all of the food here at our facility.

4. Do you deliver to the home-bound elderly, and what are the requirements?

Yes we do deliver to the home-bound elderly. The requirements are that you have to live inside the city limits of Brownwood, be home-bound, and meet qualifications. For more information give us a call.

5. Do you offer activities?

Yes we do. Please look at our calendar on the webpage and it will give you a listing of the many things we have going on monthly.

6. Do you rent the building?

Yes. For further information you can follow the link on our webpage.

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Utility Billing

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1. What do I need to set up service?

Answer

2. How much is deposit?

Answer

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Water Distribution

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1. Can I turn my water off myself?

If you have a personal cutoff installed at your residence, you may turn that cutoff off anytime you need to. If you do not have a personal cutoff installed, you will need to contact the City of Brownwood Water Dept to have your water turned off at the meter. Please do not get in the meter box. Someone is available 24/7 to turn your water off. Please call 325-646-6000 anytime you need this service.

2. Who do I call about a water main break?

325-646-6000 is the 24 hour number to report water problems.

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WIC

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