For immediate release: August 29, 2008 (08-143)

Contact:
Dave Christensen, Office of Drinking Water 360-236-3153
Allison Cook, Communications Office 360-236-4022

Forums set to discuss issues facing small public water systems

Public invited to help shape changes in regulations

OLYMPIA ¾ Small public water systems face growing and different challenges, and the state health department is looking for comments on possible solutions.

The state Department of Health has scheduled five forums around the state to discuss issues that affect very small public water systems. The gatherings are part of a public process to update state rules for these water systems. The goal is to hear from owners, operators, and customers of systems with fewer than 15 household connections. The rules also apply to systems that serve a small business.

The Department of Health is working with local health agencies to update the small water system program. Rule changes are needed to update drinking water standards based on current scientific information. Comments gathered at the forums will be used to draft rule changes.

The meetings will begin at 6:30 p.m. on the following dates and locations:

·         Sept. 9:  Ramada Inn, Spokane International Airport

·         Sept. 10:  Days Inn Hotel, Ellensburg

·         Sept. 15:  Best Western CottonTree, Mount Vernon

·         Sept. 17:  Department of Health Point Plaza East, Olympia

·         Sept. 24:  Sheridan Park Community Center, Bremerton

Directions and other details (www.doh.wa.gov/ehp/dw/groupb.htm) are available online.

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