Maintaining a supply of clean drinking water for 1.2 million people was the subject of a forum with over 40 officials from across the county recently hosted by the Suffolk County Water Authority.
Meeting at the authority’s Education Center in Hauppauge, the officials engaged in crucial discussions on emerging contaminants, aging infrastructure, advanced treatment systems, lead service lines, and efforts to connect homes to the public water system.
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“I am a proud friend of the water authority and its mission of bringing high-quality drinking water to Suffolk County’s residents. I have seen firsthand throughout the County the difference it makes in the lives of its customers. I know by working together, we can continue to ensure every resident of Suffolk has access to this vital resource,” Romaine said as he reaffirmed his partnership with the organization to continue the mission of delivering safe and reliable drinking water.
SCWA Chairman Charles Lefkowitz expressed gratitude for the strong turnout of elected officials at the forum, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in addressing the challenges faced by the water authority. Lefkowitz stated, "I am proud to say that the Suffolk County Water Authority is one of the best drinking water providers in the nation. We couldn’t achieve that without the continued partnership with our elected officials.”
CEO Jeff Szabo echoed these sentiments, stating, "This forum is a testament to our commitment to working with our stakeholders and being responsive to the public. Collaborating with our elected officials ensures that Suffolk County residents continue having high-quality drinking water."
The forum comes as the Long Island Commission for Aquifer Protection (LICAP) issued its 2023 State of the Aquifer report, which examines the challenges and progress of preserving the island’s drinking water system. The report delves into several key areas, including the emerging threat of PFAS contamination, water withdrawal practices and conservation, lead and copper rule revisions, and a strategic roadmap for water reuse.
Established in 2013, LICAP stands as the sole bi-county organization wholly committed to the long-term preservation of the aquifer, the primary source of all drinking water on Long Island. The annual report serves as a valuable resource for policymakers, providing insights into the vital issues affecting the aquifer and the ongoing efforts to safeguard the precious resource.
"This comprehensive report is a testament to our commitment to preserving Long Island's primary water source,” said Commission Chairman Jason Belle. “This year's focus on PFAS and other critical issues reflects our dedication to addressing emerging threats and ensuring a sustainable future for Long Island."
"The aquifer is the lifeblood of Long Island, and the annual State of the Aquifer is a key instrument in our collective efforts to protect it,” Szabo concluded. “Through collaboration with stakeholders and a focus on innovation, LICAP remains dedicated to its mission to safeguard our water resources for generations to come. We encourage policymakers to consider this report as they work in the year ahead to protect our drinking water and preserve our aquifer for future generations."
The Aquifer Report is available at www.LICAPOnline.com.
For more information on the water authority, visit SCWA.com