Whenever the city has evidence that a meter or the distribution system has been the subject of tampering or vandalism, the Finance Department may impose an administrative penalty as designated by resolution, which penalty shall be paid prior to reconnecting or reinstituting service. The term
TAMPERING shall be construed to include, but not be limited to, any breaking or interference with locks, any attempts to bypass the meter, any damage to the meter or distribution system, or any conduct which in any way frustrates or interferes with the city's administration of the water system. The term DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM shall include, but not be limited to, an automatic meter reading device, and its appurtenances. Nothing in this section shall prohibit the Department from seeking criminal prosecution for tampering or water theft; however, the Department shall not impose the administrative penalty and seek criminal prosecution for the same event.
('66 Code, § 6-5.09.5) (Ord. 641-C-S, passed 8-7-86; Am. Ord. 817-C-S, passed 7-11-91)