Gates County officials are moving forward with a pilot program aimed at improving water quality, particularly in the removal of fluoride, following discussions during the Board of Commissioners meeting on August 27, 2025. The pilot program will initially take place in Chowan County before transitioning to Northampton County and eventually to Gates County later this year, likely in November or December.

The program is part of a broader initiative to enhance water treatment processes in the region. Officials noted that the water quality in Gates County is cleaner than in neighboring Camden, which may reduce the need for chemical additives during treatment. This could lead to more efficient operations and lower costs for the county's water treatment facilities.

During the meeting, commissioners also addressed the importance of maintaining the county's water systems. A discussion highlighted the need for automated monitoring systems to prevent catastrophic failures in water treatment plants. These systems can detect issues early, allowing for timely maintenance and reducing the risk of service interruptions.

In addition to water quality discussions, the board approved a motion to amend the minutes from a previous meeting to clarify the language regarding a contract authorization for the water department. This correction was made to ensure accurate representation of the board's actions.

Looking ahead, the next Board of Commissioners meeting is scheduled for September 17, 2025, at 6 PM. The board emphasized the importance of transparency and community engagement, noting that work sessions will continue to be held prior to regular meetings to facilitate thorough discussions on county matters. These sessions are open to the public and will be recorded for those unable to attend.

As Gates County prepares for the upcoming pilot program and continues to enhance its water treatment capabilities, residents can expect improvements in water quality and service reliability in the near future.