Kitsap Public Health District outlines Group B water program updates

Local public health officials took the spotlight during the House Environment & Energy meeting on April 1, 2025, as they discussed the critical role of local drinking water programs in Washington State. John Keyes, the environmental health director for the Kitsap Public Health District, emphasized the importance of local oversight in managing Group B water systems, which serve smaller populations compared to larger Group A systems.

Keyes highlighted that Kitsap County has approximately 820 Group B water systems catering to around 10,000 residents, amidst a total county population nearing 280,000. He noted that the county experiences minimal new Group B system permitting due to effective rural water services provided by the Kitsap Public Utility District and existing growth management regulations.

The discussion underscored the significance of local partnerships in addressing community needs and environmental challenges. Keyes pointed out that since 1991, Kitsap has maintained a local drinking water program, fostering collaboration with various stakeholders, including building and planning departments, water purveyors, and well drillers. This program has been pivotal in updating local drinking water ordinances, which were revised in 2018 to enhance water quality management.

Rick Dawson from Walla Walla County also contributed to the conversation, providing insights into the unique challenges faced by different jurisdictions. The meeting reinforced the necessity of localized approaches to water management, ensuring that regulations are tailored to the specific needs of communities across Washington State. As the committee continues to explore these issues, the focus remains on strengthening local health initiatives to safeguard public drinking water systems.