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Historical Drinking Water Week Awards
2023
Commitment to Excellence
John Anderson, Water Treatment/Water Quality Superintendent, Sammamish
Plateau, Water and Sewer District.
John Anderson has been a valued member of Sammamish Plateau Water and Sewer
District for 35 years. He built his knowledge base and is now the water expert at
the district. He is a key operations person in design projects, including the seismic
improvement work done at multiple district reservoirs. He is instrumental in the district
meeting all drinking water requirements. John freely shares his expertise, mentoring
coworkers and helping other water systems.
Kevin Cook, Treatment Plant Operator for Lake Whatcom Water and Sewer
District, Bellingham.
Kevin operates and maintains three Group A water systems and consistently
meets all monitoring and reporting requirements. Through Kevin’s hard work and
management, the South Shore Water System’s treatment plant received DOH’s
Treatment Optimization Program (TOP) award for a record twenty-one years. His
implementation of the Water Use Eciency (WUE) program resulted in water loss
going down even though the system size increased. Kevin ensures his legacy of
excellence is passed on to the next generation of operators by mentoring his
coworkers.
Wyatt Long, Public Works Manager, City of Rock Island.
Wyatt manages this rural city’s water system with limited support sta and does most
of the work alone. He takes water quality samples, submits reports, monitors the wells,
responds to customer requests, along with the thousands of other tasks required to
run a water system. He is focused on water conservation and dedicated to nding leaks
and repairing them. During a power outage, Wyatt slept outside the main well to ensure
the generator continued running. This kept the pump going and prevented the system
from losing pressure. His community never ran out of water and didn’t have to face the
diculties brought on by loss of pressure in the system.
Scott Dixon, General Manager, Dallesport Water District,
Dallesport.
Scott’s career spans more than 42 years. The system was out of compliance
and undergoing an audit when Scott was hired. He successfully identied key
problems and instituted corrective actions. He brought the system up to standard
with DOH requirements and regulations. He formed a budget committee to
address the district’s nancial needs. He implemented a rate increase study, made
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recommendations, and convinced the board to apply the increase. He focused on in-house repairs and
engineering, which saved the district money. Scott shares his expertise with other small water systems
in the area, ensuring safe and reliable drinking water for surrounding, rural communities.
Above and Beyond
Christopher Roblin, Ferry County.
Successful public health outcomes rely on eective cooperation and partnerships among
various regulatory agencies, water system operators, and the communities they serve.
Christopher exemplies that success. He is responsible for bringing out-of-compliance
systems back into compliance with state regulations and requirements. Ferry county had
taken over many small, at-risk, and failing water systems. Christopher turned them all around
and they now produce safe and reliable drinking water for their customers. He worked hard
and added Wastewater Operator certication to his skills so that he could oversee all aspects
of these communities’ water systems. His actions ensure public health now and for future generations
in these communities.
Grace Under Pressure
Joe Grogan, Public Works Director, Town of Coupeville.
Joe started his career as Utility Supervisor in 2016 as the Navy conrmed PFAS
contamination in the Town of Coupeville’s newest drinking water well. Joe became
an expert on PFAS contaminants, testing, state and federal regulations, treatment
operations, and more. He acted as liaison between the Navy and the town,
communicating complex information in a transparent and understandable way.
He created a calm environment and gained the trust of the community, the press,
and the Navy. Joe was recently promoted to Public Works Director and continues to
oversee capital projects, the utility crew, and all while keeping current with emerging
state and federal PFAS regulations.
Lifetime Achievement
John Lovie, former Whidbey Island Water System Association President.
John also served on other boards and committees, including the Water Resources
Advisory Committee (WIWSA). He founded and still runs the WIWSA newsletter, which
covers topics like emerging contaminants, regulations, and available funding. He also
served on nine local community scientic organizations, providing expertise and hours
of his time. He is passionate about water conservation and works tirelessly to advocate
for the preservation of natural resources. John is involved with the PFAS response
and is a member of the PFAS Chemical Action Plan Advisory Committee, making
recommendations to the Department of Ecology. It also works to ensure safe drinking
water, managing environmental contamination, and reduce PFAS in products available to
consumers. John’s work encompasses the whole of Island County, not just his own community.
Mark “Bubba” Scott, Water System Manager, Pend Oreille PUD 1.
Mark celebrates more than thirty years in the drinking water industry. He is responsible
for nine water systems and their communities. He worked tirelessly to secure over $5
million in grant funds for projects that were vital for maintaining the health and safety
of poor, rural communities. He is responsible for major construction of water treatment
facilities, wells, chemical treatment systems, along with various studies, cross connection
control, and well head protection programs. He has served on numerous committees,
most recently as a Governor appointee to the Washington State Public Works Board.
His inuence will carry into the future with the capable operators who follow in his
legacy of excellence.
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Tim McMurrin, former Water/Wastewater Operator for Klickitat PUD.
Tim began his career with Klickitat PUD in April 2001 and learned his craft hands-on. He was
procient at taking tests and shared his knowledge with new operators, mentoring them. He
reached out to help all who needed it and covered coworkers’ weekend duty, responded to
alarms in his o hours, and helped customers. He had an exemplary work ethic and cared
deeply about his family and coworkers. He passed suddenly from a heart attack and is greatly
missed by everyone who knew him.
Sue Kennedy, Water Program Senior Environmental Health Specialist, Lewis
County Health.
Sue dedicated 29 years to ensuring safe and reliable drinking water for the people
of Lewis County. Her unwavering commitment to public health has had a signicant
impact on the community. Her expertise in the eld is unmatched. She works
tirelessly to identify and address potential water contamination sources, and she’s
helped bring millions in funding to assist Lewis County public water systems. She’s
active in her community in other ways and serves in local organizations, schools,
and community groups. She collaborates with other professionals to develop
benecial policies and regulations. She is highly respected by those inside and
outside her eld as she raises awareness of the importance of safe and reliable drinking water to
community health and nancial vitality.
2022
Above and Beyond
Kathy and Oz Noboru Ausley, co-managers Bethel Green Acres Water
Association, Spanaway, Pierce County.
Kathy and Oz look forward to retiring from their 24/7 job operating this small, aging, and high
maintenance community water system. They have given up holidays, driven miles for parts, and worked
through the last two years of the pandemic, showing unfailing dedication and loyalty to their community.
Commitment to Excellence
Tom Krebs, Water Treatment Plant Supervisor, City of Walla Walla.
Tom’s career spans over thirty years. His dedication and commitment to delivering safe and reliable
drinking water was challenged in the extreme drought of last year. The water system uses dierent
drinking water sources, surface water and ground water, which require dierent types of treatment.
Tom skillfully determines appropriate supply and treatment to meet demands. He also oversees
watershed protection, coordinating with other agencies to protect the surface water safe source.
Chris Orkney, Lead Operator, Naselle Water Company.
Chris leads and mentors other operators, sharing his knowledge and skills. He is proactive, always
looking and planning ahead—an important skill when dealing with the unique challenges of maintaining
surface water quality.
James Jensen, Operations Manager, Washington Water Service.
James comes to work each day and asks, “What can we do better?” He created new monitoring
schedules and found ways to evaluate and improve source water and distribution processes to better
serve his customers and always ensure the highest quality water.
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Friend of Drinking Water
Arnica Briody, Environmental Health Specialist, Chelan-Douglas Health District.
Arnica began a project to track 450 Group B water systems and nd those that should be classied as
Group A. She combed through data and historical and sometimes incomplete records to trace use and
ownership. Her dedication to this project helps guard the health of those living in Chelan and Douglas
counties by ensuring clean, safe, and dependable drinking water.
Grace Under Pressuure
Tom Martin, Water and Wastewater Systems Manager, Clallam PUD #1.
Flooding caused a landslide across Highway 12 into Clallam county last year, damaging a pump station
and breaking a waterline that supplied water to reservoirs for Sekiu and Clallam Bay. Tom jumped into
action, working tirelessly, and coordinating with multiple agencies so that the two communities had
access to safe drinking water until the slide materials could be cleared and repairs made.
Most Innovative
Jude Grounds, Senior Project Manager, Carollo.
Jude led the utility coordination eort during the regional chlorine supply disruption last year. He
organized and facilitated multiple calls and meetings involving many large drinking water systems
throughout Washington and Oregon. He helped initiate conversations and collaboration between
drinking water utilities and state agencies. Many of the large utilities were able to coordinate resources
critical to drinking water treatment.
Perserverance Under Adversity
Mark Combs, Water operator, Rumbolz Sunset Water Association.
Mark stepped up to the challenge when asked to take on a badly run and neglected water system. He
cleaned up the system, repaired numerous mechanical failures and leaking distribution pipes. He also
helped the community-run water system plan for the future instead of reacting to emergencies.
2021
Lifetime Achievement Award Winners—For Those Retiring
Michael Williams, Water Treatment Manager, City of Sultan
Mike has been with the City of Sultan for 21 years. His work ethic, knowledge, and dedication are
unmatched. He is ready and able to do whatever it takes to keep safe, reliable water owing for all of
Sultan’s customers.
Kenneth Unkrur, Water Operations Foreman, Parkland Light & Water
(PL&W), Tacoma
Ken’s main focus after 30 years is upgrading PL&W’s water system, a major overhaul project with many
complex components. Ken works harder than ever as he nears retirement and is an example and
mentor to younger coworkers in the drinking water industry
James W. Miller, City Engineer, City of Everett Public Works
Over his career, Jim led and managed water-related agencies and sta, including Seattle Public Utilities
(SPU) and Lakehaven Water and Sewer District. He is a lifetime American Water Works Association
member. His legacy is innovation and dedication to water resource management and environmental
stewardship. Through his leadership, Everett and surrounding water utilities are better equipped
to meet future growth and resiliency needs. He is a regional resource in water rights, water supply
contracts, and water utility management.
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Mark Sadler, Operations Superintendent, City of Everett Public Works
Mark has had a signicant impact over 24 years of service. He oversaw many new programs and
standard operating procedures. He initiated and developed new ideas to solve existing challenges, and
replacing and updated many of the water systems components. Mark leaves a legacy of commitment
and dedication to ensure safe drinking water for all of Everett’s customers. He is a trusted colleague,
mentor, supervisor, leader, box, advisor, and friend to many. His dedication inspires others to be at their
best.
Tracy Valentine, Supervisor, City of Leavenworth Water Treatment Plant
Tracy has worked for the City of Leavenworth for over 25 years as a water treatment operator. She
recently became the Supervisor of the Water Treatment Plant, a well-deserved promotion. Tracy passed
the Level 3 Water Treatment Plant Operator test with ying colors. Her attitude is always stellar and she
always strives to make the best tasting drinking water for her customers.
Fred Pardini, Water Treatment Manager, City of West Richland
With more than 30 years with the City of West Richland’s Public Works Department, Fred is dedicated,
passionate and tireless in his eorts to maintain safe drinking water standards. He has been
instrumental in development and implementation of initiatives, programs, establishing standard
operating procedures, and capitol improvements to enhance the overall eciency, eectiveness,
capacity, and water quality. During the 2020 pandemic, a series of events nearly led to a state of
emergency with strict water rationing. Due to Fred’s actions, the need for the emergency declaration
was averted. Fred is a mentor and example for future waterworks operators in protection water
resources and providing clean, safe, reliable drinking water for West Richland.
John Kounts, Water Program Director, Washington Public Utility Districts Association
John has helped ODW sta understand the impact and obligations we have as regulators with water
utilities. He is a leader among decision makers and elected ocial to nd or create infrastructure
funding. He works with our Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) program to help small water
systems nd solution or consolidate with larger systems. He has been instrumental in helping DWSRF
receive two recent legislative appropriations and other EPA grant money. He will be greatly missed.
Commitment to Excellence Award Winners
Jared Alexander, Water Quality and Engineering Technician, Mukilteo Water
and Wastewater District
During this past year Jared went above and beyond his duties in the midst of the pandemic. He stepped
up to supervise a team in the eld, while continuing to provide clean and safe drinking water for his
customers. Jared also completed the rst phase of the Mukilteo Multimodal Ferry Terminal Project,
which included a complex water system with many challenges. Jared’s commitment is motivating to
those around him in the oce and the eld.
Regional Water Cooperative of Pierce County (RWCPC)
RWCPC led the way when it established a monthly networking and knowledge-sharing forum in 1991,
which has grown over the years. Through collaboration and diligence, RWCPC addresses challenges to
local utilities through the forum including water quality, legislation, emergency preparedness, and more.
They are a unique action-oriented organization, dedicated to helping and sharing the best management
practices. Pierce County residents enjoy better drinking water due to the work of the RWCPC.
Cody Kamke, Water Foreman, Peninsula Light Company, Gig Harbor
Cody exemplies excellence in his work each day. He is most concerned with providing safe and reliable
drinking water to Peninsula Light Company customers. He goes the extra mile to comply with state
and local regulations and provides strong leadership. He sets an excellent example of a water works
operator to his colleagues.
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James Brennan, Water Manager, Driftwood Valley Association, Yelm
James is the sole operator for a small system in Yelm. The system faced lead and copper challenges
and James educated and guided home owners through the issue until the system reached compliance.
He’s dealt with other challenges and the daily monitoring with diligence. James also has been active in
starting a conservation program during hot months and educating residents. Finally, he is an example of
how to conduct business during a pandemic, guiding others on social distancing and wearing personal
protection equipment.
Jerry Goertz, President, Deep Creek Ranchette’s Water Association, Medical Lake
Jerry has been president for over ten years and continually strives to improve and update the water
system. He established an annual preventative maintenance program, created a water conservation
program to lower water usage by two million gallons a year. He works with local, county, state, and
federal ocials concerning the PFAS/PFOA contamination from nearby Fairchild Air Force Base. He also
brought the system onto social media to keep in touch with water association members.
Aaron Harwood, Public Works Superintendent, City of George
Mr. Harwood displays diligence and dedication while controlling the water quality for the City of George.
All water sampling and reports are completed in a timely manner. His dedication, knowledge, and
understanding of how important clean, safe drinking water is the city’s customers make him a standout
superintendent.
Grace Under Pressure
Brenda Smith, President, Holiday Hills Community Club, Eatonville
The president job is a volunteer position with a typical small, rural community water system with many
challenges and old infrastructure. Brenda uses her leadership skills to keep the water system going. She
set up a successful customer late payment plan and educated the community on the need to address
the failing infrastructure. She worked with other volunteers to map the entire distribution system, no
easy task. During the pandemic, when the well pump failed, she worked tirelessly to nd a trucked water
supply so that families would be able to wash their hands and keep their homes clean.
Alice Campbell, Environmental Health Specialist, Northeast Tri-County Health
District.
Alice conducts sanitary surveys of water systems on behalf of the Department of Health and had to
navigate a 50 percent increase in workload in 2020 in additional to her normal duties. Timely and
eective survey work would be an accomplishment on its own, but Alice was also frequently called away
as part of the Health District’s COVID response. Her ability to produce excellent work while balancing
frequently changing duties and priorities epitomizes “grace under pressure.”
Friend of Drinking Water Award Winner
Richmond Petty, Environmental Health Manager, Chelan Douglas Health
District
Richmond has done an excellent job working with the Oce of Drinking Water on conducting Sanitary
Surveys. He gives clear attention to detail on the Sanitary Survey reports. He communicates very clearly
with our oce and does a great job of getting the survey reports completed within the thirty day
requirement. With additional pandemic duties keeping the health district sta busy, Richmond stand out
with his dedication to protecting public health with safe, dependable drinking water.
Operator of the Year Award Winner
Von Eggers, Water Plant Operator, City of Richland
During Von’s career, he has seen numerous facility upgrades and process improvements. With his
water system experience and knowledge, it seems as though he has his nger on the collective pulse of
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the water treatment plant and distribution system. He is a resource for other operators when process
changes are being considered and displays patience and encouragement when sharing his knowledge.
He is known for his preparedness, leaving subsequent shifts with excellent operating situations. He is a
reliable and valuable asset for the City of Richland.
2020
Lifetime Achievement Award Winners
Dan Kegley, Director of Water and Hydroelectric Services, City of Spokane
Dan has served nearly thirty years with the City of Spokane, starting as a laborer and equipment
operator, earning certications and working his way to director. He has overseen many vital initiatives,
such as removal of all lead services lines in Spokane, establishment of a safe and reliable drinking water
intertie with a struggling neighboring system, and provision of bottled water to a small community that
temporarily lost their only source of water. In addition, Mr. Kegley mentors future water operators,
volunteers in many capacities with many water-related organizations, and is passionate about protecting
one of our most precious resources—water.
Mary Howell, Chief Operating Ocer, Backow Management Inc.
Nominated for her superior contributions Mary is passionate and dedicated to the education and
excellence of waterworks operators and environmental professionals. Mary is an innovative leader,
helping many Washington communities achieve and maintain clean, safe drinking water through
instruction and leadership to their certied waterworks operators. Mary’s commitment is why
Washington state has such highly qualied and knowledgeable water industry experts. Mary is a
member of many professional waterworks associations and travels throughout the nation providing
training, consulting, and delivering presentations and classes. Through her work, Mary goes above and
beyond to protect public health.
Chuck Clark, Chief Executive Ocer, retired, Cascade Water Alliance, Woodinville
Chuck Clark led and managed water-related agencies and sta at local, state, and federal agencies for
nearly fty years. He leaves a legacy of innovation and dedication to stewardship of our water resources.
Cascade Water Alliance is a unique municipal corporation of ve cities and two water and sewer districts
in east and south King County. He is responsible for successful laws allowing water utilities to combine
eorts in providing water services more eciently and eectively; as well as protections for water
districts and cities that provide re protection services. He has dedicated his working life to ensuring
regional water supply resiliency and sustainability.
Bob Hunter, General Manager, Kitsap Public Utility District, Poulsbo
Working for Kitsap Public Utility District for almost 35 years, Bob Hunter has risen from operator
to general manager. He has overseen extensive growth of the district’s drinking water utility, which
currently owns and operates 28 Group A water systems and 25 Group B water systems. During
Bob’s tenure, the utility worked closely with Department of Health sta to assist and consolidate
troubled water systems in Kitsap County, contributing to the public health of the communities
involved. Furthermore, Bob pushed for upgrades to the treatment plant to be more protective of the
groundwater and ensure a sustainable supply of safe, clean water. Bob is also involved in many local
groups related to safe and sustainable water sources on the peninsula.
Friend of Drinking Water
Jon Ness, Environmental Health Director, Colville
Only ODW sta can nominate individuals for the Friend of Drinking Water award. Jon recently moved
from Grant County Health to the Northeast Tri-County Health District. Jon was nominated due to his
outstanding enthusiasm to advance the interests of sustainable drinking water and emphasize its
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critical importance to healthy communities. He is dedicated and tireless in his eorts to maintain safe
drinking water standards. He is an excellent mentor to many sta and coworkers, and takes special care
advancing ODW programs and standards for providing safe, clean, reliable drinking water.
Operator of the Year
Dave Muto, Operations Planning & System Control Manager, Seattle Public Utilities
Seven people nominated Dave Muto for the Operator of the Year award. Dave was the point person for
a staggering array of new construction projects in the Seattle metro area. Updating and upgrading water
system controls, ow-testing, and integration of a new UV treatment plant are just a few of the projects
he was in charge of. He is also noted for his dedication to teaching and mentoring his employees.
He selessly shares his time and knowledge, and encourages his employees to grow and move into
leadership positions. He remains calm in crises and his deep understanding of the water systems were
critical in ensuring uninterrupted service during several emergency events. Mr. Muto embodies the core
values of public health and safety.
Commitment to Excellence
Jim Patton, Executive Director, Whidbey Island Water System Association, Coupeville
Jim Patton is recognized for his long history of community service, his leadership, character, and insight.
After retiring from the Port of Coupeville, Jim stepped up as executive director for his community’s water
system. Whidbey Island’s access to potable water is a challenge and Jim found innovative solutions
to the serious problems faced by the water association. He often brings together state, county, and
local water system sta to address issues faced by the water system. He also educates the public
and association members about water quality issues and, thanks to his tireless eorts and insight, his
community can rely on safe, clean water.
Perseverance Under Adversity
Windolph Water Association, Olympia
The Windolph Association took ownership of their water system after a series of violations and orders to
install disinfection and maintain pressure failed. The existing well had a three-gallon-per-minute (gpm)
capacity and the reservoir could not maintain pressure at the upper homes. Twenty-seven homeowners
took on a three-year challenge of identifying and obtaining an easement for a new well. They used funds
from our Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) to drill a new water source, which produced a
40gpm ow, but could not maintain sucient system pressure. They used another DWSRF loan to build
a new reservoir. The community members spent countless hours working together with their operator,
consultants, and ODW sta to ensure safe and reliable drinking water for all of the homes in their
community.
2019
Lifetime Achievement
Peggy Barton, Director, Washington Certication Services at Auburn Green
River College
Peggy oversees administration of the Department of Health’s professional growth program for certied
water works operators, its annual renewal program, and backow assembly testers’ certication
program. For over 35 years, her commitment, high standards, and dedication to contemporary training
programs, with clear and relevant instruction resulted in highly trained, exceptionally competent
waterworks operators for Washington state.
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Paul Robischon, retired from Washington Water Services
During his tenure at Washington Water Services, Paul initiated and developed many new ideas to
solve existing challenges that were ecient and also made it safer for personnel. One of his ideas
changed the way a tank manufacturer sealed the topmost joint between the tank wall and roof. Paul’s
resourcefulness brought him to the attention of regulators and he was asked to serve on several
Department of Health (DOH) committees. He also taught at DOH-sponsored trainings. His career was
marked by service, teaching, and mentoring others in the water industry.
Kathleen Cahall, retired Bremerton Water Resources Manager
During Kathleen’s tenure, Bremerton’s drinking water system received multiple state and federal awards
for excellence. She was proactive in protecting Bremerton’s source water, initiating many measures to
ensure the safety and security of the Union River watershed. She was instrumental in improving the
distribution system and maintaining regulatory compliance, working well with Department of Health
regional engineers. Kathleen was a proven leader and the public face of the utility, which serves over
55,000 people, as well as the Puget Sound Navy Shipyard. She was an outstanding mentor to her sta
and cared about customer concerns, public outreach, and education.
Commitment to Excellence
City of Spokane Water Department
Spokane Water Department serves about 230,000 customers, some who had lead service lines. The city
completed removal of all lead service lines ahead of the schedule in the Governor’s Directive on Lead,
at no cost to homeowners, even for portions of lead service lines located on private property. They are
also good neighbors to the City of Airway Heights, whose primary wells were contaminated with PFOS/
PFOA. Dan Kegley, Director of Water/Wastewater, and his sta initiated a temporary intertie, providing
safe drinking water, and helped with ll stations and other needs until the crisis was past.
Emilia Blake, Water Quality Coordinator, Skagit Public Utilities
Emilia heads up the drinking water laboratory and is responsible for water quality at the water
treatment plant and distribution system, where she performs at an exemplary level. She is responsible
for lab accreditations and procedural eciencies, such as upgrading and maintaining instrumentation
equipment. She conducts extra research to enhance water treatment plant operation and optimization
projects. Emilia also spearheaded a proactive eort in preventing water quality issues with the PUD’s
reservoir. She earned this award through her dedication, attention to details, and going above and
beyond her job duties.
Dave Brown, Yakima Assistant Public Works Director
Dave began his career as a Water Treatment Plant Supervisor and worked his way up to his present
position. He teaches certication training and is invested in his sta’s advancement and career goals. He
provides steady, reliable leadership in times of crisis. In addition, he chairs the Yakima Basin Integrated
Plan Water Use committee and is a board member of several other entities and boards. Dave played
a key role recently in assisting two failing water systems overcome adverse conditions and nd a safe,
reliable water source.
Most Innovative
City of Anacortes
When the city water department was tasked with updating its telemetry to ber optics, options were
limited. They discovered a method used in Europe installing micro-duct into active water lines. After
research and design adjustments, Brent Christensen, Water Distribution Lead, along with his crew,
were able to deploy roughly 15 miles of micro-duct eciently. It was an extensive process that included
installing breakouts and handhelds to divert around existing valves and elbows. They were able to
improve on the original idea, saving time and money, while ensuring continually high water quality.
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2018
Grace Under Pressure
Mike LaScuola, Technical Advisor Environmental Resources, Spokane Regional
Health District
In May 2017, Fairchild Air Force Base found signicant levels of peruoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the
City of Airway Heights drinking water wells. Customers received bottled water and were asked to not
drink the well water. Mike was a key player in the response, handling calls from concerned citizens,
interacting with the media, and coordinating with ODW. PFAS was later discovered in privately-owned
wells. Mike continued working with private well owners, answering questions and assisting with sampling
while coordinating with ODW.
Above and Beyond
Jennifer McDonell-Evans, Water System Superintendent, Curlew Kai Home
Owners Association Water System
Jennifer led a nearly $1 million construction project to build two new water tanks, a well, and pumping
equipment. During construction, a re broke out. The HOA Board nominated Jennifer for her help with
coordinating the reghting eort. Thanks to her quick work, she helped save the HOA’s newly installed
equipment.
Lifetime Achievement
Martin Sebren, Kitsap Public Utilities District, Retired
Martin oversees the PUD’s hydrologic monitoring network. This network records surface water and
groundwater levels throughout the county. Using this information, Martin ensures that more than 50
water systems continue to have safe, reliable drinking water.
Mark Weeks, City of Everett, Retired
During his time with the city, he was also a plant operator, lab manager, and distribution manager. ODW
sta nominated Mark for his role in developing many programs and standard operating procedures.
In addition, ODW sta noted Mark’s work to optimize the plant’s water treatment process, and the
knowledge he freely shared with other operators and water systems.
Commitment to Excellence
Carol Schlender, Water Quality Manager, Washington Water Service
Washington Water Service manages several water systems in Western Washington. ODW sta
nominated Carol for her attention to detail, dedication to staying on top of drinking water regulations,
and meticulous record keeping.
Doug Quinn, Director of Water Services, Clark Public Utilities
Under Doug’s direction, Clark Public Utilities serves more than 80,000 customers. Under Doug’s
leadership, Clark Public Utilities won the J.D. Power Award for Customer Satisfaction in each of the last
ten years.
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2017
Lifetime Achievement
Mike Stevens, City of Camas, Retired
Mike Stevens retired from the City of Camas after working his way up to Water Supervisor for the city.
He realized the value of safe, reliable drinking water and always worked toward the goal of a healthy
water infrastructure; gaining knowledge and collaborating with others. Mike was valued throughout
the industry, with regulators and his colleagues alike, for his insight, experience, and integrity. We
congratulate Mike on his retirement, he will be greatly missed.
Paul Reebs, City of Kelso, Retired
Paul Reebs retired after a successful career spanning forty years. Under his leadership, the City of
Kelso won water optimization awards for each of the past ten years, which resulted in the presentation
of a Gold Award. For three years running, the Kelso water plant has been the top-ranked surface
water plant. During his tenure, Paul committed to going above and beyond to ensure safe and reliable
drinking water. He is well respected for his honesty, integrity, and commitment to public health.
Operator of the Year
Bill Maxwell, Operator and Water Quality Specialist, City of Pasco
Bill Maxwell is a great role model and educator; committed to expertise in water treatment and quality.
He uses his knowledge and skill to assist other water systems as well as further the education and
growth of other operators and eld sta. Bill has also coordinated school eld trips and successfully
engaged second graders, getting them excited about the importance of water treatment—no small feat.
Grace Under Pressure
Wayne Braun, Enterprise Estates
Wayne Braun was honored for his dedication in serving the Enterprise Estates water system in Ferndale.
He worked for over two decades providing safe and reliable drinking water to his customers and
neighbors. During a recent windstorm, which knocked out the power to the well, Wayne monitored
the generator throughout the day and night, even though trees were falling on the lots adjacent to the
well and kept the water owing. He is proud that at 75 years old he continues to obtain water works
certications in order to serve his community.
Perseverance Under Adversity
The Greater Bar Water District
Sta at the Greater Bar Water District worked hard to consolidated other, smaller water systems during
a major construction project. Doing so eliminated a problematic, failed water system that had been on
a health advisory for over a decade. By consolidating and obtaining permits to expand, the District has
put public health rst, boosting the economic benets to the communities they serve.
Above and Beyond
Betty Vance, Valley Water District
Before she retired, Betty was instrumental in forming the Valley Water District near Puyallup and
consolidating various smaller water systems. She excelled in leadership and communicating the value
of a healthy water infrastructure and the need for sound nancial and managerial plans. She used
her educational and negotiating skills to work with Department of Health sta in applying successful
business models to centralize the water management of smaller systems.
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2016
Grace Under Fire
Ron Slabaugh, P.E., Chelan County PUD
Ron’s heroic eorts kept the water running while reghters battled the Sleepy Hollow wildres that
threatened Wenatchee homes and businesses last June. While Ron and his coworkers were checking
the water system for available water reserves, another re erupted at a recycling facility across the
street, creating another front for reghters and complicating the amount of water needed. By using
PUD backup wells, Wenatchee City water, and other water resources, Ron and his team supplied six
million gallons of water—enough to ght the res and keep the water system pressurized.
Friends of Drinking Water
Roger Maurer, Project Manager Engineer, Cowlitz County Public Works
Kenneth Stone, Project Manager Engineer, Cowlitz County Public Works
Teresa Walker, engineer in our Southwest Regional oce, recognized Roger and Kenneth for their hard
work bringing the Columbia Crest Estates water system into compliance with the arsenic rule, a years-
long challenge. Maurer and Stone, with the Cowlitz County Public Works Department, took on this long-
term project, coordinating the planning and work, and applying for and managing the funding.
Above and Beyond
Charles H. Belvin, Columbia Crest Estates Water Association
Charles lives in the Columbia Crest Community. He was retired—until the water system had arsenic
problems. He became a water system expert and organized the residents into a water association to
take over the water system. For seven-plus years, he worked with the Oce of Drinking Water, Cowlitz
Public Works, and others to solve the arsenic problem.
Mark Leenhouts, Fairchild Mobile Home Community Water System
Mark owns and operates the Fairchild Mobile Home Community Water System. Last November, after
the worst Spokane-area windstorm on record, Leenhouts and his sons worked around the clock to fuel
the generators to keep the water and sewer systems from freezing. Leenhouts used his own resources
to provide heaters and fuel for residents who sheltered in place. His eorts prevented signicant
damage to the water system, sewer discharge system, and residents’ homes.
Commitment to Excellence
Paul Kamin, Eastsound Water Users Association
Four people nominated Paul Kamin, chair of the San Juan County Water Resources Committee, for
his work as a water conservationist and advocate. He led eorts to update the Eastsound water
system infrastructure and technology, providing for new growth and conserving water resources. He
communicated clearly to customers during last summer’s drought and led successful eorts to conserve
water during peak demand times.
2015
Commitment to Excellence
Tacoma Water
The Green River Filtration Facility is celebrating the opening of the new, 150 million gallons per day
ltration treatment plant—the largest in our state. When water systems use surface water, such as
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rivers and lakes, particles in the water must be removed to meet drinking water standards. The $197.5
million dollar project serves more than 600,000 customers in Pierce and King counties.
Kitsap Public Utility District
Healthy water systems, long-time employees, and happy customers all describe the Kitsap Public Utility
District (PUD). The PUD, which owns and operates around 150 water systems, is committed to helping
struggling systems in Kitsap County. They are a valuable partner for the Department of Health in
providing safe and reliable drinking water.
Pursuit of Excellence
City of Colville Water System
The city, recognizing the need to replace a deteriorating water system, formed a committee of city
ocials and local residents to create a long-term nancial plan. The plan, adopted in 2010, included
an unpopular rate increase of 4.5 percent for ve years. During this time, the city replaced three wells,
improved water reservoirs, repaired leaks (saving about two million gallons a year), and replaced old
meters and several thousand feet of water mains.
Lifetime Achievement
Steve Prather, Clark Public Utilities, Retired
Prather, who retired, implemented Clark Public Utilities’ state-of-the-art computer structure that enables
high-level monitoring and control of a complex water system. His eorts helped operators respond to
system concerns from remote facilities, which improved response times, minimized damage and water
loss, and improved service to customers.
Above and Beyond
John Wesely, Cedar Water Treatment Facility
As plant and project manager at the Cedar Water Treatment Facility, Wesely and his eight-member sta
oversee a 180 million gallons per day plant for Seattle Public Utilities. Wesely, a CH2M Hill employee,
had double-duty as a manager and shift operator for several months. His nomination cited his ability to
“keep the greater Seattle area water taps running full and clean.”
Operator of the Year
Cheryl Capron, Seattle Public Utilities
In her nomination, Capron was described as a “working example of ‘Operator of the Year’ every year!”
Her accomplishments include a shutdown block analysis of the Seattle Public Utilities distribution
system that identied re-ow and low-pressure deciencies.
Going Above and Beyond
Phil Gady and Melissa Young
When windstorms result in power outages, it can put water systems at risk. The systems in northern
Spokane County were hard hit the summer of 2015. Gady and Young, both certied water system
operators, quickly assessed damage, mitigated threats, and restored service to aected systems. They
also became the ears and eyes for helping the agency prioritize response and recovery assistance
eorts.
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2014
Grace Under Pressure
Albert Darrow (Clearwood Community Association Board), Maintenance
Manager, Thurston County
Albert Darrow, operator for the Clearwood Community Association water system near Yelm,
experienced a situation that every operator dreads: bacterial contamination that led to a long-
running boil-water advisory. The situation was frustrating because there was no obvious opening for
contaminants to enter the water system. He worked closely with ODW sta to explore the entire water
system and make improvements. He worked more than ve weeks without a day o to restore water
quality for the community’s 2,800 residents.
Kirk Lally and Randy Russell, Operator and Superintendent, Spokane County
Freeman School District Superintendent Randy Russell and water system operator Kirk Lally were
chosen because of their response to elevated levels of carbon tetrachloride, a chemical found in
pesticides and solvents, in the school district’s well. Between March 2012 and September 2013, they
identied water treatment alternatives, obtained and managed two short-deadline grants, and acquired
and installed a treatment system. The new system ensured safe drinking water for the school district’s
900 students and sta.
Lifetime Achievement
Bill Evans, Whatcom County, Retired
Bill was chief operator for the City of Bellingham’s Water Filtration Plant for more than twenty-ve
years. He was a champion for maximizing the operation of the ltration plant, and initiated many
improvements designed to increase the plant’s performance. The Bellingham Water Plant is one of only
twelve in the nation to receive the fteen-year Director’s Award in the Partnership for Safe Water. He is a
leader in drinking water professional associations as well.
Lifetime Achievement
Dan Katsel, Walla Walla County, Retired
Public Works Director Dan Katsel is being recognized for his thirty-nine years of service with the City of
Waitsburg. He started working for the city as a laborer in 1975, and worked his way up. He has been
involved in every aspect of the city’s Public Works Department and oversees several unique features of
the water system, most of which was designed in the 1930s. He has been involved in countless public
works projects that relate to more than just the city’s water system.
Ongoing Excellence
Steve Coke, Cross-Connection Control Specialist, Thurston County
Steve Coke was recognized for his ongoing eorts to improve the City of Olympia’s cross-connection
control program, which exists to prevent harmful biological, chemical, or physical contaminants from
entering the drinking water supply. Under his leadership, the city identied seventy-ve unprotected
high or severe hazard connections, primarily medical facilities. His achievements include bringing
Olympia from a 67 percent compliance rate for annual backow prevention equipment testing to a 95
percent compliance rate in three years.
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2013
Going Above and Beyond
Dave Olson, President of Water Systems Services Inc./Cornerstone
Management and certied operator, Whatcom County
Dave Olson, a management consultant and certied operator, was honored for his eorts to address
nitrate contamination in Whatcom County. He initially volunteered his expertise to help oDW nd
alternative sources of water for four threatened water systems that together serve more than 700
people. In the process, he developed a deep understanding of the issues facing each system. Olson has
conducted numerous studies on alternative water sources.
Most Improved
Belfair Water District #1 (Thomas Peadon), Mason County
This award recognizes Belfair Water District #1’s transformation from a water system in chaos into a
well-managed operation. Thomas Peadon, the system’s new manager and operator, is largely credited
for the system’s recent success. The North Mason County water system faced failing equipment, a crisis
of leadership, and nancial and legal woes. The award credits Peadon and the utility district’s board of
commissioners with confronting those challenges and restoring public condence in the water system.
Operator of the Year
Gary Sale, State Parks & Contract Operator, San Juan County
Gary received his award for excellent management of multiple water systems in the San Juan Islands. He
managed state park water systems in San Juan County, provided support for ve additional systems in
the islands, and is a contract operator for more water systems. As a Washington State Parks employee,
he’s kept water systems safe and reliable despite budget and sta cuts. He initiated strategies that help
others do their jobs better; such as written standard operating procedures for seven state park water
systems that help park sta operate the systems safely and consistently.
2012
Award program on hold, due to budget reductions.
2011
Most Improved
Town of Endicott, Whitman County
David Jepsen nominated Town of Endicott for its completion of major rehabilitation improvements to its
potable water system. A new well ensures safe, reliable drinking water for customers. They increased
re storage and re ow capacity. Reduced leakage from 13.2 percent to 6 percent.
Grace Under Pressure
Mason County Public Utility District #1
In October 2010, E. coli contamination was detected in the wells of Canal Mutual Water System and the
Minerva Terrace Water System. The contamination was from heavy rainfall—200 percent higher than
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normal. Sta sprang into action, alerting customers with hand-delivered notices, handing out bottled
water, working with state and county health departments and consultants. Sta endured long hours,
showing dedication and hard work to resolve the contamination.
Going Above and Beyond
City of Walla Walla
The City’s Public Works Department has a vision to leave a legacy of sustainable infrastructure for the
future. The City put a plan together, the Infrastructure Repair and Replacement Plan, for water and
sewer system replacement. The City produced informational documents, promoted the plan, and held
public meetings, ensuring citizens were aware of the magnitude of the problems. 2010 was the rst year
of construction under the plan.
Operator of the Year
Kim Gubbe, Thurston County Public Utility District #1
The nomination for Kim Gubbe says it all: “Kim is committed to ensuring that all of the PUD’s customers
have safe and reliable drinking water and selessly gives of her own time and resources to support this
goal.” Gubbe, certied operator for twenty-ve Group A water systems, 130 Group B water systems,
and serves as the certied operator for fourteen managed water systems. “She is proactive in relying on
prevention as the rst line of defense to avoid potentially health-threatening and costly problems,” the
nomination said.
Lifetime Achievement
Kathleen "Cas" Hancock, Concrete, Retired
Cas Hancock, certied operator, was honored for her many contributions to the drinking water industry.
The nomination said Hancock is an asset to the water systems that she manages, as well as to ODW.
“She’s our partner in public health as it relates to the physical operations of the water systems and
the need for sound management and nancial health. She is out in the eld carrying these important
messages.”
Friend of Drinking Water
Lewis County
Lewis County helped struggling water systems through technical and managerial problems, oods-2006,
2007, 2008, and 2009. Lewis County conducted weeks of emergency response, coordinating and
delivering water to customers, schools, community centers. The county has displayed extraordinary
leadership throughout the years and commitment to providing safe and reliable drinking water.
2010
Most Improved
Sunrise Beach Association, San Juan Island County
Sunrise Beach water system on Lopez Island struggled with frequent water outages, bacterial
contamination, arsenic levels that exceeded safe drinking water standards, and a continuous boil-water
advisory. The board completely rebuilt the small water system. Its customers now have consistent
access to safe, reliable drinking water.
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Grace Under Pressure
City of Kennewick, Municipal Services Department Water Treatment Plant
The City of Kennewick faced a perfect storm. The Kennewick Irrigation District had a canal leak that left
the city without irrigation water service for two weeks. Temperatures were above 100 degrees. The city
also had electrical problems with pumps at its water treatment plant and water storage levels were
declining. Chief operator Paul Briggs and the plant sta kept the pumps working, despite some failures
and got the city through the crisis.
Going Above and Beyond
Paula Brock, Pine Terrace Water Association, Oak Harbor
Paula Brock, president of the Pine Terrace Water Association on Whidbey Island, navigated several
setbacks, yet refused to give up her quest to upgrade the community’s undersized, inadequate water
system. The upgrades are now complete.
Operator of the Year
Carl McCrary, City of Kalama
Carl’s nomination says it all: “One person’s attitude can make a big dierence in the success of the
utility.” McCrary, the City of Kalama’s public works director, faced challenges including ooding,
maintenance issues, and a signicant water outage. “Carl responds very quickly to any emergency,
always praises his sta and …considers himself a true partner with us in the business of providing safe
drinking water for his town,” the nomination said.
Lifetime Achievement
Monte Brachmann, City of Camas, Retired
Monte, recently retired public works director for the City of Camas, received the Lifetime Achievement
Award for his many contributions to the drinking water industry. Brachmann helped found the Lower
Columbia Subsection of the American Water Works Association. He led and served on the Washington
Waterworks Operator Certication Advisory Committee and state advisory boards.
Friend of Drinking Water
Drew Noble, H20 Management Company, Mason County
Noble, who served on the Department of Health’s Water Supply Advisory Committee, helped struggling
water systems through technical and managerial problems. ODW workers said he has “a passion for
providing safe and reliable drinking water…and tries to do so at a reasonable price.”
2009
Grace Under Pressure
Drug Abuse Prevention Center, Cowlitz County
The Drug Abuse Prevention Center’s well and reservoir were intentionally contaminated by an unknown
intruder on Memorial Day weekend last year. The Center immediately brought in bottled water and
portable toilets and showers, then set about correcting the problem. Its sta worked with the Cowlitz
County Health Department and Sheri’s Oce, ODW, and other state oces to protect the health of
clients and sta —all while maintaining the integrity of a criminal investigation.
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Going Above and Beyond
Port of Walla Walla, Burbank Business Park Water System
The Port of Walla Walla was recognized for developing the Burbank Business Park Water System. The
Port embarked on a $3.5 million project to build a central water system for the business park and
its neighbors, which eliminated individual wells. The Port now supplies water to the Columbia School
District, which allowed the district to stop using nitrate-contaminated wells. The Port also plans to
provide a better water source for the 100 residential customers of the Columbia View Water System in
Burbank.
Operator of the Year
Cary Eller, Chelan County
Cary, water quality program coordinator for the Chelan County Public Utility District, is 2009’s “Operator
of the Year.” Eller managed twelve water systems in Chelan, Douglas, and Grant counties. He took on
systems with no operators and those with challenging problems such as arsenic. Eller earned praise for
being conscientious and eective, and focusing on preventing rather than reacting to problems.
Friend of Drinking Water
Brad Lake and Sean Bauer, City of Kent
Brad Lake and Sean Bauer showed exceptional commitment to providing safe and reliable drinking
water to customers in Kent and neighboring water systems. As water superintendent, Lake made sure
Kent’s water system operators oered their services to neighboring systems. He devoted his own time
to help resolve their water issues and to develop regional planning groups. Bauer, Kent’s water quality
supervisor, has also found ways to improve neighboring systems. He is on a state advisory committee
for operator certication.
2008
Grace Under Pressure
Spanaway Water Co. Manager Je Johnson and sta
E. coli bacteria was detected in some routine water samples. Johnson and the Spanaway Water Co.
sta worked with ODW sta to issue news releases in time for the evening news, alerting 20,000 people
served by the water system that there might be a problem. They worked with state and local agencies to
notify schools and food service establishments, set up a station for customers to get drinking water, and
staed an after-hours call center.
Going Above and Beyond
Sharon Germano, Forest Glen Estates Homeowners Association, Pierce County
Sharon led the Forest Glen Estates homeowners association’s eorts to overhaul its failing water
system. The Forest Glen resident, who had no experience running water systems, volunteered to obtain
grants and loans to nance construction, oversaw system improvements, and guided the community
through water outages and health advisories. Today, the Pierce County development has an improved
water system that can handle peak demands.
Operator of the Year
Kathy Small, Pasadena Park Irrigation District No. 17 in the Spokane Valley
Small not only led eorts to rehabilitate a water system with one of the state’s highest leakage rates, she
documented the steps she took and calculated savings in pumping costs as well as water conserved for
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future growth. Small then created a training course to help other systems tackle leakage issues. She’s
was also recognized for a team-building management style that inspired others to give their best and
for service through professional and educational organizations.
Lifetime Achievement
Edward Bush, City of Washougal, Retired
Edward Bush, retired water system manager for the City of Washougal in Clark County, received the
“Lifetime Achievement Award.” During his 30-year career, he spearheaded water system initiatives
and improvements, provided leadership in professional associations, and worked to improve service,
education, accountability, and professionalism.
Friend of Drinking Water
Lorna Parent, Skagit County Health Department
For more than 20 years, Lorna helped towns such as Rockport, Big Lake, and Marblemount obtain
safe, reliable drinking water. Her eorts to access drinking water data for local health departments
contributed to development of the state Department of Health’s drinking water Internet database.
2007
Most Improved
Town of Eatonville
To meet its rapid population growth and water quality problems, Eatonville built a new reservoir, rebuilt
its telemetry system, and constructed a new state-of-the-art water-treatment plant.
Grace Under Pressure
Washington Water Service Company
When a windstorm blew the power out in Clallam, Jeerson, Kitsap, King, Mason, Pierce, and Thurston
counties last December, Washington Water Service employees made sure the 20,000 residents of
their 197 water systems didn’t lose drinking water. The company’s emergency response plan and
communications system let customers know when they would have water restored and ensured all
customers had water at least part of each day. At one point, they were refueling and rotating portable
generators among 135 water systems.
Going Above and Beyond
Judy Davis, Homeowner, Paxson Platt Water System, Grant County
Davis, a homeowner on the Paxson Platt Water System, played a major role in bringing the failing water
system back into compliance with state regulations. Davis was instrumental in rallying the community to
petition the City of Moses Lake for direct water service.
Lifetime Achievement
Norm Kramm, City of Vancouver, Retired
Kramm is an outstanding leader in the water industry with thirty years of public service. In the twenty-
four years since he became Vancouver’s superintendent of water production and quality in 1983, the
size of the utility has doubled, population has quadrupled, and public works sta have tripled.
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Friend of Drinking Water
Jacqueline “JJ” Bellinger, Okanogan County Public Health District
Bellinger, an environmental health specialist for the county, often worked weekends and holidays
helping water systems resolve contamination issues or quickly get lab results. Bellinger managed the
county drinking water program, inspected water systems and wells for water quality problems, provided
technical advice, and ran the local health department’s drinking water lab.
2006
Most Improved
Skamania Public Utility District
The PUD was recognized for enacting aggressive conservation measures to reduce water use, saving
about 18 million gallons of water per year. In addition to its conservation eorts, it helped make
improvements to the Carson Water System. The PUD also worked to build a 2.3 mile transmission line
connecting Carson Water System to the Carson Industrial Water System, make improvements to the
treatment plant, and continue watershed planning.
Grace Under Pressure
Sharon Kimball and Consolidated Irrigation District #19 in Spokane County
Last fall, Bob Ashcraft, manager of Consolidated Irrigation District #19, received news that one of
his water samples came back positive for E. coli. Whenever this happens, a water system must take
additional samples, send them to the lab, and wait for the results to learn whether or not there is a
public health problem. Ashcraft had to travel out of state the next morning - before results were due.
Anticipating the worst, he made arrangements for his sta to handle the crisis in his absence.
Going Above and Beyond
Longview Water Treatment Plant
Recognized for its role in ODW’s training program. In addition to learning how to operate its own
plant at the highest possible level, the Longview plant hosted several training sessions and provided
equipment to operators from other plants.
Operator of the Year and Lifetime Achievement
Frank Piper, City of Puyallup, Retired
Frank was recognized for his work for the city water division. A city employee since 1969, Piper was
a member of the water division since 1980, and the lead worker for 20 years. He faced broken water
mains that ooded seven city blocks, helped reghters get an adequate water supply to ght one of
the city’s largest res, and manually operated the water system during power outages to ensure the
city’s reservoirs remained full. Piper was also recognized for helping low-income and elderly customers
repair water leaks—on his own time, without compensation.
Friend of Drinking Water
David Eaton, Walla Walla County Health Department
David, Environmental Health Director for Walla Walla County Health, was recognized for his eorts in
providing healthy drinking water to his community.
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2005
Most Improved
Sentinel Gap Water Association in Grant County
The Association was recognized as the “most improved” water system. Last year this small community
replaced its old, disintegrating water system with new facilities, including all distribution mains, the pump and
control system, and a state-of-the-art reconstructed well head. The project took years of work and funding
from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development Program, the state’s Community Development
Block Grant Program, consultants, water system operators, and the Grant County Health District.
Going Above and Beyond
Snohomish Public Utility District
The PUD received an award for “going above and beyond” to operate a quality water system. In addition
to directly operating and managing fteen water utilities in Snohomish County, the PUD was recognized
for its outstanding support of neighboring systems during emergencies.
Operator Recognition
Ray Klube, Willapa Valley Water District
For the rst time, an individual certied water system operator was recognized during Drinking Water
Week. Ray was honored for his exemplary commitment to protecting the public. He operated and/or
managed the district’s water system for thirty-ve years. Ray started with the district under a high school
work program. After graduating in 1973, he became a full-time employee and a state-certied operator.
Recently Ray led the replacement of a more than thirty-year-old pressure ltration system with a
modern direct-lter system.
Handling a Crisis Well
South Whidbey School District
This Whidbey Island water system provides drinking water to 1,700 students and sta. The school district
was recognized for taking an active role in educating students, teachers, and the community about lead
last fall after nding it in their drinking water. The district held a public education forum to discuss the
issue. Information was presented by school board members, school sta, local public health, and the
Department of Health. Within a week, every school in the district was provided with bottled water.
2004
City of Hamilton in Skagit County
Serving a rural community of 350, the city created a new, protected source of water outside the Skagit
River ood plain. The city’s old well was highly susceptible to ooding and was subject to contamination
from the river.
Stevens County Public Utility District
The PUD facilitated the consolidation and rehabilitation of several small struggling water systems. It has
a long history of providing safe and reliable drinking water by assisting failing small water systems in
Spokane and Stevens counties with technical assistance and operations or management assistance.
City of Shelton
The city discovered fecal coliform bacteria in drinking water and did an exceptional job notifying
8,400 customers to boil their water. The city immediately began chlorination and an aggressive
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reservoir cleaning and distribution-ushing program to locate the source of the contamination. They
also developed a regional water supply and wastewater management plan that facilitated long-term
industrial and economic growth, met environmental and health regulations, and allowed for the
restructure of many small inadequate water supplies in the area.
2003
Foothills Water Association in eastern King County
Serving the communities of Kangley and Selleck in eastern King County, the association recently
completed construction of a new drinking water system. Kangley residents were getting their water from
a creek and Selleck’s water was transported through a pipeline made up of various materials including
wood staves. Both communities were expected to either boil their drinking water or purchase bottled
water.
In addition to the construction of two wells to replace the unltered surface water supplies, the Foothills
Water Association provides disinfection treatment, water storage and pumping facilities, standby power,
service meters, a signicant amount of new water lines, and improved water pressure. The water system
is designed to serve 85 homes and the new investments cost about $1.5 million.
City of Aberdeen
For many years the city supplied unltered water to their customers. When there were heavy rains, the
water became murky and people had to boil their drinking water. “Boil water” advisories were common;
in fact there was one advisory that lasted over a year. There was also a problem with leakage from the
reservoirs.
By developing partnerships the City of Aberdeen was
able to turn around its situation and install a 6.5 million
gallon per day water ltration plant. In addition to
ltering the water, the pH is adjusted to control lead and
copper levels, and uoride is added. Improvements were
made to the city’s two reservoirs, which greatly improved
water quality by eliminating stagnant water.
In addition to the improvements made to the reservoirs
and water treatment, loans to the city from the Drinking
Water State Revolving Fund were used to install 6,100
service meters. With the use of the meters, city workers
are able to identify and repair leaks much easier. Water
usage for the city has gone from an average of 4.2
million gallons per day in 2002 to an anticipated 3.4
million gallons per day this year.
Kershaw Fruit Company
A privately owned water system, Kershaw’s direct
customers were their 40 employees. Their water quality
was also important because it’s used to process the
apples Kershaw provides to local grocers. DOH identied
several key areas for improvement, including monitoring
for nitrates, chemicals, and other water quality
conditions. Through updated and increased monitoring,
the company was better able to dene and take actions
to improve their water quality, making it safe for their
community.
