Newman: Well 5 removed from permit; recall letters accompany elevated nitrate notice

Public works staff told the Newman City Council that Well 5 has been fully disconnected from the city water system and removed from the city’s drinking water permit. The staff member said the city is mailing a recall letter with water bills and has posted information on the city website. "Well 5 is fully disconnected from our water system and our, water, drinking water permit, is modified, amended to have that Well 5, removed off the permit," the public works staff said. The staff member also said, "the water is safe to drink and, and to be able to use for any regular uses."

A resident speaking during the meeting said she felt the city had done a sufficient job notifying the public, noting mailings and coverage in the Westside Connect. A council member asked whether the city would look to add an additional well to serve as a backup in case of future problems. Public works staff responded that existing wells are "more than adequate to supply the drinking water and the water demand in town," but said staff will assess other locations within the city for a new well.

The statement on the record documents the operational status of Well 5 and the city’s plan to assess options for a replacement well. No formal council action on well replacement or funding was taken at the meeting.