Thanks to everyone who participated in the Water Rate survey as well as those of you who attended the Meetup on October 16, 2024. About 20 members and guests discussed the results of the survey along with various topics such as sea water intrusion, reserve levels, Group B system planning and more. Some highlights:
Rate Survey: 16 water systems completed the survey (out of 115 emailed and 588 in Island County). Though not statistically meaningful, we learned that the median annual rate charged was $400, primarily charging a flat rate recovering operating costs. Even though most systems kept a reserve, few are basing it on replacement costs. Half of the systems reported that they are using an SMA, while the other half is self-managing their system. Follow the link below to the Rate Survey Presentation for a full report on the results.
Group B Testimonial: We heard from a South Whidbey water system (3 connections) manager who worked out an agreement with Meadow Lake Water Treatment enabling him to retire from self-management. They aren’t an SMA but can provide some services and coverage to make the self-management load lighter.
NW Region Circuit Rider: Julie Robinson (360-302-6996; jrobinson@erwow.org) of Evergreen Rural Water described some of the services she can offer. Although her main focus is supporting Group A systems, she can include visits to or consultation with Group B systems time permitting. She recommended the WA DOH Publication 331-351b, Preventive Maintenance Program Guide for Small Public Water Systems Using Groundwater as a helpful tool to Group B systems.
Group B Management: Aneta Hupfauer of Island County Public Health recommended the DOH Publication 331-134, Small Water System Management Program Guide, and that Group B systems be vigilant in meter reading and consider consolidation for long term benefits.
Leak Detection: A number of members talked about the importance of meter reading in general but specifically to help identify potential leaks. In the event of a leak, some service providers who can help:
- American Leak Detection of Western Washington, (425) 276-6850. Their office is in Snoqualmie, WA.
- Simon Clearwater, 263-405-2356. He is a one man company.
- Hydrevo LLC, Bob Metson, 206-954-3356, www.hydrevolution.com
The meeting wrapped up with a general discussion that covered the use of water line maps, people’s experience with SMA rates and service quality, issues with sea water intrusion and arsenic levels. Here are links to a complete recap for the detailed notes on the meeting as well as the rate survey results and a full video recording of the meeting: