ANTHONY, Texas (KFOX14/CBS4) — Fire hydrants in El Paso County, particularly in Anthony, are facing maintenance challenges, raising safety concerns among residents and business owners.
Arnie Castaneda, public works superintendent for the Town of Anthony, explained that issues such as low manpower and lack of equipment can delay repairs.
The town currently has 98 fire hydrants, with seven out of service.
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When a hydrant fails, the local volunteer fire department is notified, and first responders use the nearest operational hydrant in emergencies.
Castaneda assured that if a hydrant outage affects coverage, residents and businesses are notified through an all-call alert system or in-person visits.
Ernesto Salazar, a local barber shop owner, expressed concern over the infrastructure issues, stating, “I want to keep them safe… the infrastructure is needed in the community. And for [the hydrants] not to be working– this is a big high alert.”
El Paso County Commissioner Sergio Coronado previously raised concerns about unmaintained hydrants, citing alleged water pressure issues during the Flying J fire earlier in 2025.
Castaneda refuted these claims, stating the emergency was managed well despite the utility’s size.
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Castaneda noted that state support through grants and funding could enhance infrastructure.
Local State Rep. Vince Perez mentioned existing laws to ensure infrastructure maintenance and potential technical support.
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