HomeMy WebLinkAboutBrown's Hill water map extension ~, ' RECEIVED
Fellow citizens, the Honorable Scott Russell and Councilmembers,
,~outhold Town Cler~
I'd like to cover three items today: 1. Summarize some publicly available data about the finances of the Suffolk County Water
Authority.
2. Some options for the interim delivery of clean water to those who need it in Orient.
3. Trends in municipal water quality in the United States and what it means to us.
Suffolk County Water Authority Finances:
Like all of the other 640 Authorities in the State of New York, including the Metropolitan
Transportation Authority, better known as the MTA and the Long Island Power Authority, better known
as LIPA, the Suffolk County Water Authority can borrow money from the bond markets, pay interest on
it, and use the money to invest in its primary purpose, which in the case of this authority, is to provide
clean and drinkable water to the citizens of Suffolk County.
For the financial year 2008/2009, the Suffolk County Water Authority saw a DECREASE in revenues
of $8.5 million dollars and lost $6.1 million dollars. Many other companies, both private and public
have suffered in these troubled economic times. There are only two options a company has when
presented with losses: 1. Cut costs and 2. Increase revenue, that is money coming in from customers.
This authority chose to increase costs by $13 million dollars, of which $12 million was for health care.
So that leaves only option 2, which is to increase revenue. Increasing revenue can only come increasing
rates on existing customers and getting more paying customers. Here are a couple of quotes from the
financial report, which you can access on their website. I will leave a copy with the secretary for your
perusal and to be entered into the public record.
Quote (Page 16): wo~
The rates established by the authority do require PSC or Suffolk County Legislative approval. (PSC
stands for the Public Service Commissi~
Quote (Page 21):
Quote: (Page 36):
As of May 31, 2007, the actuarial accrued liability for benefits was $166,487,365, all of which was
unfunded.
The third quote refers to an unfunded liability that the Authority has to its retired employees for health
care. For fiscal 2008/2009 that amounted to $24.293 million dollars, or approximately $26,000 dollars
per person for the 904 participants (Page 35) for which the Authority is obligated. The unfunded
liabilities of $116 million dollars over the next three decades which will need to be funded out of
income it gets from its customers.
The Authority also received a windfall of $78 million dollars from various oil companies for settling a
suit regarding MTBE, an additive used in gasoline, until is was banned in New York ~tate in the early
90's. This money went into the assets of the Authority without which the assets of the Authority would
have decreased.
Drinkable Water:
Given the amount of words surrounding this issue, and the Authorities application to the State of New
York, one would think that Orient, and in particular Browns Hills has a water crisis of biblical
proportions. It doesn't. For the time it will take to get a comprehensive plan, there are many available
technologies that can directly address issues with water. This is a portable filter I use when traveling in
areas without safe water. It is rated for raw water and since I've started using it, I don't get sick anymore
when traveling. There are many 2P' century technologies that can deliver cleaner water than any
municipal or water authority can hope to deliver. At rates that am lower than those of central water
authorities. The quality of drinking water in Browns Hills will decrease, unless its residents opt to keep
their filters. But the point is, there are technologies that can be deployed now to tide over those in need
until a comprehensive plan is developed. And the community will rally around those who have
difficulty acquiring such technologies due to financial constraints.
Trends in Water Quality:
It is no secret that water quality and quantity is decreasing across the United States. In a memo to
Martin Trent, a consulting company, Camp David McKee or CDM, writes, on Page 23 of Task 7.2,
dated February 4, 2010, "Ground water nitrogen levels increase in unsewered areas as housing density
increases." The United States Geological Survey has a table in circular 1292, Page 17, Sidebar 8,
"Urban Land Use Contributes More VOCs to Ground Water than Do Other Land Uses." As Western
Suffolk continues to see the erosion of open spaces and farmland, how does this affect the quality of the
water being destined for Orient?
I would urge the Town Board, to understand the structural issues that is faced by the water company as
it wrestles with these difficult issues.
In closing, I'd like to m-iterate that: 1. The financial situation of the water company requires it to find more customers
2. We can deploy technologies in Orient to buy time for a comprehensive plan to be put into place
and
3. There are structural issues with the source water quality that need to be understood in the
context of a comprehensive plan.
Drinking Wate.r. Costs
& Federal Funding
SAFE DRINKING WATER ACT · 1974-2004 · PROTECT OUR HEM,TH FROM SOURCE TO TAP
How Much Does It Cost to Treat and
Deliver My Drinking Water?
We generally pay much less for our drinking water
than we do for most other goods and services, such
as cable television, telephone service, and electricity.
On average, tap water costs are slightly more than $2
per /,000 gallons, although the costs tend to be lower
for large water systems, and higher for small systems.
lreatment accounts for about 15 percent of that cost.
Other costs are for equipment (such as the treatment
plants and distribution systems), and labor for operation
and maintenance
of the system. Yet
think about how
important water
is to our daily
lives. Each of us,
on average, uses
over 100 gallons
of water per day
for everything
from drinking and
bathing to watering
This eq uc~tes
cmnual wc~ter bill
of about $300
per household,
though costs vary
co~asiderably across
the country.
Funding for Drinking Water Programs
Federal and state governments share responsibility for
administering and funding drinking water programs.
Under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA), the U.S.
E~wironmental Protection Agency (US ~PA) ~s given the
responsibility for developing national standards and
regulations that apply to the nation's public drinking
w<~te~ systems and enforcing those standards. US EPA
h¢~s a rnc~ional headquarters and 10 regional offices
that wo~k together and with the states to administer
d~i~kir~g water p~ograms.
SDWA also allows states to accept oversight of the
drinking water program under an agreement with US
EPA giving states primary enforcement (or primacy)
responsibilities. All states currently have primacy
(Wyoming and the District of Columbia do not
have primacy so their drinking water programs are
administered directly by US EPA Region VIII in Denver,
and Region III in Philadelphia, respectively). US EPA also
administers all tribal drinking water programs at this
time. In addition to this delegation of federal authority to
the states, states also have the power to create additional
regulations and programs governing drinking water
suppliers through
their own legislative
and regulatory
processes.
These federal and
state programs are
separate from the
activities performed
by water systems.
State and federal
programs develop
regulations and
perform oversight
and compliance
activities, but do
not actually treat
or deliver wc~ter to
customers. At the
local level, public
and private water
utilities collect, treat, and deliver drinking water to
consumers. Funding for the construction, maintenance,
and operations of these local utilities is usually derived
from water bills and/or local taxes.
Funding for the federal drinking water program is
determined by the President and Congress. Funding for
state programs comes from the federal government, state
general revenue funds, state fee programs, and other
sources of state funding. Each year, Congress allocates
Public Water System Supervision Grants to the 49 states
with primacy as well os Indian Tribes. States are required
to match their grants by 25 percent. State general
revenues and fees provide the majority of operational
funding for state drinking water programs. Historically,
states on average have contributed around 65 percent of
the costs of running the federal drinking water program
while the federal government has contributed 35 percent.
Beginning in 1976 US EPA began providing grants to
states in order to assist in implementation of both the
Underground Injection Control (UIC) and Public Water
System Supervision (PWSS) programs. In 1976 the
amounts set-aside for UIC and PWSS were $2.5 million
~md $75 million, respectively. In 2004, the amounts
have grown to $10.9 million and $102 million.
Fundlne for Drinking Water Infrastructure
and Maintenance
The cost of making water safe continues to rise. Much of
the existing drinking water infrastructure (underground
networks of pipes, treatment plants, and other facilities)
was built many years ago. The US EPA Drinking Water
Infrastructure Needs Survey, released in 2001, estimated
that drinking water systems will need to invest $150.9
billion over a 20-year period to ensure the continued
source development, storage, treatment, and distribution
of safe drinking water. Many agree this is a very
conservative Iow estimate.
The federal government has a number of programs that
support the construction and maintenance of drinking
water systems. The largest program, the Drinking Water
State Revolving Loan Fund (DWSRF), was created by
the 1996 amendments to SDWA. This program provides
federal grants from US EPA to states. They, in turn, loan
money to drinking water systems to install, improve, or
maintain treatment facilities. Tribes, U.S. territories, and
the District of Columbia receive direct grants for drinking
water infrastructure improvements from US EPA.
The first grants from the Drinking Water State Revolving
Fund, DWSRF, were distributed to states, tribes, and
territories from the 1997 appropriation and totaled
$1.275 billion. From 1997 through 2003, cumulative
federal grants for the DWSRF program to states total over
$5 billion. In addition to the federal grants awarded,
states are required to provide matching funds equal to
20% of the federal grant award received for the DWSRF
The majo,ity of funds received by the state DWSRF
programs are then loaned, at below market interest
rates, to wate~ systems for projects designed to help meet
heahh-based standards for drinking water. Some of the
funds from the federal grant awards can be directed into
set aside accounts by the states. Each year, a state may
set-aside up to 31% of its federal grant award to fund
ca,rain specified components of the state's drinking water
program activities. These set-aside funded activities can
include administration of the DWSRF program, technical
assistance to small drinking water systems, state drinking
water program management, and local assistance or
other state drinking water programs. Each state decides
what percentage of set-aside to use, and how to use the
set-aside funds based on public input and participation.
State set-asides have on average represented
approximately 16% of federal DWSRF grants, cumulative
from 1997 through 2003.
There are also national set-asides, which target funds
from the overall DWSRF appropriation to address
specific purposes. These national set-asides are used to
fund drinking water projects for American Indian Tribes
and Alaska Native Villages, to conduct monitoring of
unregulated contaminants, and for reimbursement of
drinking water operator certification training expenses.
In FY 2004, national set-asides of $12.7 million were
taken for American Indian Tribes and Alaska Native
Villages, and $2 million were set-aside for unregulated
contaminant monitoring.
Funding for drinking water systems is also available
through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban
Development's Community Development Block Grants,
bonds, and the Rural Utility Service of the U.S.
Department of Agriculture which provides funds for rural
drinking water and waste water systems.
For More Information
To learn more about drinking water costs and federal
funding, call the Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1-
800-426-4791 or visit the safewater web site at www.
epa.gov/safewater.
Office of Water (4606) www. epa.gov/safewater EPA 816-F-04-038 June 2004
Drinking Water
Glossary
SAFE DI/INKING WA!I'ER ACT · 1974-2004 · PROTECT ()tlR HEALTIt FROM SOURCE TO TAP
These definitions are not intended to be complete or to have legal force, but rather to help consumers
quickly understand drinking water-related terms in the context of their daily lives.
.~¢tJon I. eYel: The level of lead or copper which, if exceeded in over 10% of the homes tested, triggers
treatment or other requirements that a water system must follow.
/~¢ute I'te~,lth I:{l®¢t: An immediate (i.e., within hours or days) adverse health effect that may result from
exposure to certain drinking water contaminants (e.g., pathogens).
~.qu|f~r: A natural underground layer, often of sand or gravel, that contains water.
Best /~¥allabl~ ?e¢lanolo~l¥: The water treatment(s) that US EPA certifies to be the most effective for
removing o contaminant.
Chronic I-I~{alth I'~ff~¢t.' The possible result of exposure over many years to a drinking water contaminant
at levels above its Maximum Contaminant Level.
Coliform: A group of related bacteria whose presence in drinking water may indicate contamination by
disease-causing microorganisms.
Community I~/~t~r System: A public water system which supplies drinking water to 25 or more of the
same people year-round in their residences.
Compliance: The act of meeting all state and federal drinking water regulations.
CollllmJ~¢lllt'- Anything found in water (including microorganisms, minerals, chemicals, radionuclides,
etc.) which may be harmful to human health.
Pryplosporidium: A microorganism commonly found in lakes and rivers which is highly resistant to
disinfection Cryptosporidium has caused several large outbreaks of gastrointestinal illness, with symptoms
that include diarrhea, nausea, and/or stomach cramps. People with severely weakened immune systems are
likely to have more severe and more persistent symptoms than healthy individuals.
DJslnfept~ant: A chemical (commonly chlorine, chloramine, or ozone) or physical process (e.g., ultraviolet
light) that kills microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and protozoa.
I:~isinfept~',nt Bypro¢iupts: Chemicals that may form when disinfectants (such as chlorine), react with
plant matter and other naturally occurring materials in the water. These byproducts may pose health risks
in drinking water.
Dislril~ulion $¥,~t~m: A network of pipes leading from a treatment plant to customers, plumbing systems.
~:xemption: State or US EPA permission for a water system not to meet a certain drinking water standard.
An exemption allows a system additional time to obtain financial assistance or make improvements in order
to come into compliance with the standard. The system must prove that: (1) there are compelling reasons
(including economic factors) why it cannot meet US EPA health standards (Maximum Contaminant Levels
or Treatment Techniques); (2) it was in operation on the effective date of the requirement; and (3) the
exemption will not create an unreasonable risk to public health. The state must set a schedule under which
the water system will comply with the standard for which it received an exemption.
Finished Water: Water that has been treated and is ready to be delivered to customers. See Source
Water.
Giordia lamblJa: A microorganism frequently found in rivers and lakes, which, if not treated properly,
may cause diarrhea, fatigue, and cramps after ingestion. People with severely weakened immune systems
are likely to have more severe and more persistent symptoms than healthy individuals.
Ground Water: The water that systems pump and treat from aquifers (natural reservoirs below the earth's
surface).
Health Advisory: A US EPA document that provides guidance and information on contaminants that can
affect human health and that may occur in drinking water.
Inorganic Contaminants: Mineral-based compounds such as metals, nitrates, and asbestos. These
contaminants are naturally-occurring in some water, but can also get into water through farming, chemical
manufacturing, and other human activities. US EPA has set legal limits on 16 inorganic contaminants.
Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL): The highest level of a contaminant that is allowed in drinking
water~ MCLs are set as close to the MCLG as feasible using the best available treatment technology and
taking cost into consideration. MCLs are enforceable standards.
Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG): The levef of a contaminant in drinking water below
which there is ~o known or expected risk to health. MCLGs allow for a margin of safety. MCLGs a're non-
enforceable health goals.
Microbes (microorganisms): Tiny living organisms that can only be seen with the aid of a microscope.
Some microbes can cause acute health problems when consumed (see pathogens).
Monitoring: Testing that water systems must perform to detect and measure contaminants. A water system
that does not follow US EPA's monitoring methodology or schedule is in violation, and may be subject to
legal action.
National Primary I)rJnkJng Water Regulations: Legally enforceable standards that apply to public
water systems. These standards protect drinking water quality by limiting the levels of specific contaminants
that can adversely affect public health and which are known or anticipated to occur in public water
supplies.
Non-Transient, Non-Community Water System: A public water system which supplies water to 25 or
more of the same people at least six months per year in places other than their residences. Some examples
are schools, factories, office buildings, and hospitals which have their own water systems.
Organic Contaminants: Carbon-based chemicals, such as solvents and pesticides, which can get into
water through runoff from croptand or discharge from factories. US EPA has set legal limits on 56 organic
contaminants.
Pathogens: Disease-causing organisms, such as some bacteria, viruses, or protozoa.
Primacy: Primary enforcement authority for the drinking water program. Under the Safe Drinking Water
Act, states, U.S. territories, and tndian tribes that meet certain requirements, including setting regulations
that are at least as stringent as US EPA's, may apply for, and receive, primary enforcement authority, or
primacy.
Public Notification: An advisory that US EPA or the state requires a water system to distribute to
affected consumers when the system has violated Maximum Contaminant Levels or other regulations. The
notice advises consumers what precautions, if any, they should take to protect their heaIth.
Public Water System (PWS): Any water system which provides water to at least 15 service connections
or 25 people for at least 60 days annually. There are more than 170,000 PWSs providing water from
wells, rivers, and other sources to about 250 milLion Americans. The others drink water from private wells.
There are differing standards for PWSs of different sizes and types.
Radionuclide: An unstable form of a chemical element that radioactively decays, resulting in the
emission af nuclear radiation. Prolonged exposure to radionudides increases the risk of cancer. All of the
radionuclides known to occur in drinking water are currently regulated, except for radon and naturally-
occurring uranium, both of which were proposed for regulation in October 1999.
Raw Water: Water in its natural state, prior to any treatment for drinking. See finished water.
Sample: The water that is analyzed for the presence of US EPA-regulated drinking water contaminants.
Depending on the regulation, US EPA requires water systems and states to take samples from source water,
from water leaving the treatment facility, or from the taps of selected consumers.
Sanitary Survey: An on-site review of the water sources, facilities, equipment, operation, and
maintenance of a public water system for the purpose of evaluating the adequacy of the facilities for
producing and distributing safe drinking water.
Secondary Drinking Water Standards: Non-enforceable federal guidelines regarding cosmetic
effects (such as tooth or skin discoloration) or aesthetic effects (such as taste, odor, or color} of drinking
water.
Sole Source Aquifer: An aquifer that supplies 50 percent or more of the drinking water of an area.
Source Water: Water in its natural state, prior to any treatment for drinking. See finished water.
Surface Water: The water that systems pump and treat from sources open to the atmosphere, such as
rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
Transient, Non-Community Water System: A public water system which provides water in a place
such as a gas station or campground where people do not remain for long periods of time. These systems
do not have to test or treat their water for contaminants which pose long-term health risks because fewer
than 25 of the same people drink the water over a long period. They still must test their water for microbes
and several chemicals posing short-term health risk.
Treatment Technique: A required process intended to reduce the level of a contaminant in drinking water.
Turbidity: The cloudy appearance of water caused by the presence of tiny particles. High levels of
turbidity may interfere with proper water treatment and monitoring.
Variance: State or US EPA permission not to meet a certain drinking water standard. The water system
must prove that: (1) it cannot meet a Maximum Contaminant Level, even while using the best available
treatment method, because of the characteristics of the raw water, and (2) the variance will not create
an unreasonable risk to public health. The state or US EPA must review, and allow public comment on, a
variance every three years. States can also grant variances to water systems that serve small populations
and whlch prove that they are unable to afford the required treatment, an alternative water source, or
atherwlse comply with the standard.
Violation: A failure to meet any state or federat drinking water regulation.
Vulnerability Assessment: An evaluation of drinking water source quality and its vulnerability to
contamination by pathogens and toxic chemicals.
Watershed: The land area from which water drains into a stream, river, or reservoir.
Wellhead Protection Area: The area surrounding a drinking water well or welt field which is protected
to prevent contamination of the well(s).
For More Information
To learn more about drinking water topics, call the Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1-800-426-479t or visit the
safewate* web site at www. epa.gov/safewater.
Office of Water (4606) www. epa.gov/safewater EPA 816-F-04-035 June 2004
Comphance, and Enforcement
Drinki.ng Water Monitoring,
SAFE DRINKING WATER ACT · 1974-2004 · PROTECT OUR HEALTH FROM SOURCE TO TAP
Meeting Drinking Water Standards
Water systems, states, and the U.S. Environmental
P~otection Agency (US EPA) each have a role in
monitoring and assuring drinking water quality. The
Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) requires US EPA to set
drinking water standards that public water systems (PWS)
(providing drinking water to the public) must meet (see
fact sheet on standards for more details. US EPA has set
standards for 90 contaminants. Under SDWA, states that
meet certain requirements, including setting regulations
that are at least as stringent as US EPA's, may apply
for, and receive primary enforcement authority, or
primacy. All states and territories,
except Wyoming and the District of
Columbia, have leceived primacy.
While no Indian tribe has yet applied
tot and received primacy, four tribes
cu~renily ~eceive "treatment as a
state" stalus, and are eligible for
p~rT]acy.
Monitoring Drinking Water
Quality
Individual water systems submit
samples of their water for laboratory
testing (monitoring) to verify that
the water they provide to the public meets all federal
and state standards. How often and where samples are
taken varies from system to system and contaminant to
LIS EPA h~ regulations specify the methods that must be
used to arlaJyze drinking water samples. States or US
EPA ce~tity the Ir~boratories that conduct the analyses.
Requirements vary depending on the contaminant group,
water, and the number of people served. Water systems
c~re no curre~t standards. These occurrence data are
used to help determine which contaminants should be
regulated by new standards, and the levets of those
standards.
Who is Protected
People whose water comes from public water systems,
which serve most cities and towns, schools, businesses,
campgrounds, and shopping molls, are protected by
drinking water standards. The 10 percent of Americans
whose water comes from private wells (individual
wells serving fewer than 25 persons) are not required
to be protected by these federal standards. People
with private wells are responsible for making sure
that their own drinking water is safe (www. epa.gov/
safewater/privatewells). Some states do set standards
for private wells, so well owners should check their state
requirements. US EPA
recommends testing
your water once per
year to see if it meets
federal and state
standards. Call the
Safe Drinking Water
Hotline at 1-800-
426-4791 or see the
Safewater home page
at www. epa.gov/
safewater/faq/sco.
html to find out how to
get a list of certified
testing labs in your state.
Bottled Water
Bottled water is regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug
Administration (FDA) as a food product, and is required
to meet the same standards that US EPA sets for tap
water.
Compliance
Public water systems are responsible for complying
with all regulations, including monitoring, reporting,
performing treatment techniques, record keeping, and
public notice requirements. States, in turn, keep the data
for systems in the files in state data systems. States report
violations of Maximum Contaminant Levels and treatment
techniques, as well as monitoring violations, to US EPA.
Compliance Assistance
Stc~tes and US EPA engage in a variety of activities to
help water systems remain in, or return to, compliance.
These activities include: visiting water systems and
reviewing their facilities, equipment, and operations;
helping systems invest in preventive measures; providing
financial assistance for system improvements; loaning
specialized monitoring equipment; conducting training
sessions; holding public information meetings; and
publishing newsletters and bulletins.
L~S EPA also participates with other organizations in the
Local Government Environmental Assistance Network
(LGEAN), which provides environmental management,
planning, and regulatory information for local
government elected and appointed officials, managers,
and staff. For more information on these resources, see
~vww. Igeon.org.
17~ fl forcemellt
Jdirectly to a formal action.
There are many types of formal enforcement actions.
Administrative orders, either with or without penalty, are
issued by an executive agency of the state or federal
government. Judicial actions include civil and criminal
court cases.
For More Information
To learn more about drinking water monitoring,
compliance, and enforcement, call the Safe Drinking
Water Hotline at 1-800-426-4791 or visit the
safewater web site at www. epa.gov/safewater.
Slates and US }fDA maintain a formal enforcement
program to ensure that violations are promptly addressed
crud that public health is protected. As a condition of
p~imacy, states are required to have formal enforcement
authority. The 1996 SDWA amendments also require that
primacy states have administrative penalty authority.
In taking enforcement actions, states and US EPA
generally follow an enforcement management system or
policy. The first response to a violation is generally an
informal action (e.g., technical assistance or reminder
letter). When a PWS does not return to compliance or
ir]curs additional violations, formal enforcement action
should be initiated. When violations pose an immediate
risk !o public health, states or US EPA often proceed
Office of Water (4606) www. epa.gov/safewater
EPA 816-F-04-031 June 2004
SAFE DRINKING WATER ACT · 1974-2004 · PROTECT OUR HEAt,TH FROM SOURCE TO TAP
The Safe D~inking Water Act (SDWA) requires that
drinking water quality information be made available
to the public. When SDWA ,,vas amended in 1996,
numerous provisions were added that give consumers
greater access to information about, and opportunities
fo~ involvement in, drinking water issues.
Finding Out Whether Your Drinking
Water Meets National Safety Standards
US EPA sets heahh~based standards to protect
the nation's drinking water. Here ore three
ways to find out whether your water system
is meeting these national standards:
Consumer Confidence Reports:
Your water system is the first source
for specific information about
your drinking water. Since 1999,
each conlmunity water system
is regui~ed to prepare a water
quality report annually. Every
customer of o community water
system will have access to a
report, most commonly
through a direct
mailing. The report will
provide information
on the source of
your water supply, the
level of any regulated
contamincnts detected in the
water, the health effects of contaminants detected above
Jederal health-based standards, and your water system's
compliance with other drinking water regulations. All
community wate~ systems must issue these reports by
July I each year. If you have not seen your report, call
you~ water system to obtain a copy.
~tote Cempllance Reports: By July of each year,
every primacy state must produce an annual report
on whether water systems within the state met drinking
water standards during the previous calendar year. These
reports are available through your state drinking water
program. Many are available via the Internet. Call the
Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1-800-426-4791 to find
out how to contact your state's drinking water program,
or visit US EPA's web site at www. epa.gov/safewater/
dwinfo and click on your state.
Databases: US EPA collects information on every public
drinking water system in the nation and stores it in a
database called the Safe Drinking Water Information
System {SDWIS). US EPA uses this information to
gouge how safe America's drinking water is, and
to track water systems that are violating drinking
water standards. Much of this information
is available through US EPA's Envirofocts
Database. You can access information about
your water system, such as how many people
it serves and whether it has been meeting
drinking water safety standards, on the
web at www. epa.gov/safewater/dwinfo.
What Happens When There
Is an Emergency With
Your Drinking Water?
Public Notification: If there
is an immediate threat to your
health due to a violation of a
drinking water regulation or
standard, SDWA requires that your
water system notify you promptly through the media
or posted signs. It is important that you follow any
instructions your water system may give you in the notice.
Determining the Threats to Your
Drinking Water
Source Water Assessment: States examined each
of the nation's drinking water sources (the rivers, lakes,
groundwater, etc., from which water systems take
their water) to determine how susceptible they are to
contamination. Through these assessments, your state
and water supplier have obtained information to answer
more detailed questions about the potential threats to the
quality of your drinking water. States and water systems
must make the results of these assessments available
to tile public. Consumer Confidence Reports will also
include a summary of the status or results of these Source
Water Assessments.
Databases: The public has access to two databases
recently created by US EPA. These databases contain
information on the occurrence of contaminants in
drinking water, but don't idenlify contaminant sources.
Both databases a*e available on US EPA's web site at
www. epa.gov/safewater/databases.htmh The Information
Collection Rule Database stores information that US EPA
has collected from large public water systems (those
serving at least 100,000 people) on occurrences of
disease causing microbes and byproducts of disinfection
processes. This information has been available since
August 1999. The National Contaminant Occurrence
Database stores information on the occurrences of
regulated and unregulated contaminants in drinking
water throughout the country.
Actions That Are Being Taken to Protect
Your Drinking Water and How You Can
Get Involved
~J~ [_I~A, Moires, and water systems each work to protect
~he nation's drinking water supply. Opportunities for
public involvement exist at all of these levels.
At the Federal Level
US EPA activities to protect drinking water include
setting drinking water standards and overseeing the
work of states that enforce federal, or their own, stricter,
standards. US EPA holds many public meetings on issues
ranging from proposed drinking water standards to the
development of databases. You can also comment on
proposed regulations and drafts of other upcoming US
EPA documents. A list of public meetings and regulations
that are open for comment can be found on US EPA's
drinki~g water web site at www. epa.gov/safewater/
pubinl)uthtml or from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline at
i 800 426-4791.
At the State Level
SDWA gives states flexibility in implementing drinking
water protection efforts so that they can meet the specific
needs of their citizens while maintaining a national level
of public health. States are required to seek public input
on many of their activities including those highlighted
below. To find out whom to contact in your state about
any of these activities, call the Safe Drinking Water
HotJine at 1-800~426-4791 or visit US EPA's web site at
www. epo.gov/sa'fewater/dwinfo and click on your state.
The Drinking Water State Revolving Fund
(DWSRF): This federal grant program provides money
for states, who, in turn, provide loans to drinking water
systems to upgrade their facilities and ensure compliance
with drinking water standards. Each year, your state
develops and seeks public comment on an Intended Use
Plan that describes how it intends to use its grant to fund
projects to upgrade treatment facilities. This final list
is made available to the public. Also, a portion of you~
state's DWSRF grant can be set aside specifically for
acquiring land to help protect your drinking water source
or to fund other local protection activities. Contact your
state agency to find out if and how your state plans to
use these set-aside funds.
Source Water Assessments: As noted above, states
are implementing programs to assess and protect alt
sources of public drinking water. States developed these
programs in cooperation with citizen advisory committees
made up of representatives of public constituencies.
Individuals can also help the state, local government,
or water system to complete drinking water source
assessments. This may include helping your state
inventory the potential pollution threats to your drinking
water sources.
Capacity Development Program: In accordance
with the Safe Drinking Water Act, states developed and
are implementing EPA-approved strategies to ensure
that water systems acquire and maintain the technical,
managerial, and financial capability to ensure that safe
drinking water is provided to their customers. States
continue to involve stakeholders in the implementation of
their strategies.
Operator Certification Program: In accordance with
the Safe Drinking Water AcL US EPA issued guidelines
in February 1999 specifying minimum standards for
the certification and recertification of the operators
of community and non-transient, noncommunity water
systems. These guidelines apply to state Operator
Certific~tion Programs~ All states are currently
implementing EPA-approved operator certification
p~ogroms, which include ongoing stakeholder
involvemer~t. Contact your state for more information.
At the Local and Water System Level
There are a number of ways that consumers can obtain
information about their water system at the local level
and find out how to assist in ensuring safe drinking
water.
Consumer Confidence Reports: In October 1999, all
community water systems provided their first Consumer
Confidence Reports (also called annual drinking water
quality reports} to the public. Today, community water
systems c~re required to provide their consumers with
these annual ~eports by July 1st of each year. The reports
tell where drinking water comes from, what's in it, and
how consumers can protect their water source. These
reports also provide opportunities for public involvement
which can spark diatogue between the water supplier
and ils customers. The information contained in these
reports provides relevant information about their drinking
water quality allowing the consumers to make informed
choices and to better participate in decisions pertaining
to improving treatment, bill increases, and drinking water
protection efforts.
Source Water Prete¢lJan.' Protection of drinking
water is everyone's responsibility. You can help protect
¥ou~ community's drinking water source in several ways.
As noted above, you can work with your state and/or
w,Jter utihty duri~g the assessment of your drinking water
source. You can also work with them to periodically
update the assessment to include any land use changes
that may occur over time. You can also work with your
water supplier, local government, an existing community
watershed group, or start your own community group to
create a broader source water protection program. If
/our community already has source water protection or
wellhead protection programs in place, you can contact
lout water supplier, local government, or watershed
groups fo[ information on how to participate in or to
~mprove these protection programs. Remember that
funding for community protection activities may be
available through the DWSRF and other federal or state
grant or Joan programs.
US EPA has created several publications that help
communities develop and implement drinking water
protection programs. They can be ordered through US
EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline (1-800-426- 4791)
and are also available on the web at www. epa.gov/
safewater/pubs.
Where You Can Go For More Drinking
Water Information
tf you are interested in more information about drinking
water, US EPA maintains a Safe Drinking Water Hotline
and a web site.
Telephone Hotline: US ~PA operates the Safe Drinking
Water Hotline (1-800-426-4791) that can answer
questions about the regulations and programs developed
under SDWA, and provide federal and state contacts for
specific information. It can also provide information or~
other drinking water publications.
Internal: US EPA's drinking water web site (www.
epa.gov/safewater) provides information on US EPA's
implementation of SDWA, the contaminants regulated
under SDWA, educational activities and publications on
drinking water, links to state programs and other drinking
water web sites, and much more.
For more information on your watershed, see: www. epa.
gov/surf/. This web site includes watershed maps, local
and national information about watershed impairment,
information about local protection and volunteer
opportunities, and links to other web sites of interest.
Office of Water (4606) www. epa.gov/safewater EPA 816-F~04-039 June 2004
Understand. ing
the Safe Drinking Water Act
SAF'F] I)RINK1XG WATER ACT · 1974-200'~ · PROTECT OUR HEALTH FROM SOURCE TO TAP
The Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) was
originally passed by Congress in 1974 to protect
public health by regulating the nation's public drinking
water supply.
The law was amended in 1986 and 1996 and requires
many actions to protect drinking water and its
sources--rivers, lakes, reservoirs, springs, and ground
water wells. (SDWA does not regulate private wells
which serve fewer than 25 individuals.)
SDWA authorizes the United States Environmental
Protection Agency (US EPA) to set national health-
Trar
based standards for drinking water to protect against
both naturally-occurring and man-made contaminants
that may be found in drinking water. US EPA, states,
and water systems then work together to make sure
that these standards are met.
Miliions of Americans receive high quality drinking
water every day from their public water systems, (which
may be publicly or privately owned). Nonetheless,
drinking water safety cannot be taken for granted.
There are a number of threats to drinking water:
improperly disposed of chemicals; animal wastes;
pesticides; human threats; wastes injected
underground; and naturally-occurring substances can
all contaminate drinking water.
Likewise, drinking water that is not properly treated
or disinfected, or which travels through an improperly
maintained distribution system, may also pose a health
risk.
Originally, SDWA focused primarily on treatment os
the means of providing safe drinking water at the top.
The 1996 amendments greatly enhanced the existing
law by recognizing source water protection, operator
training, funding for water system improvements, and
public information as important components of safe
drinking water. This approach ensures the quality of
drinking water by protecting it from source to tap.
Conuumer
Roles and Responsibilities:
SDWA applies to every public water system in
the United States. There are currently more than
170,000 public water systems providing water to
almost all Americans at some time in their lives. The
responsibility for making sure these public water
systems provide safe drinking water is divided among
US EPA, states, tribes, water systems, and the public.
SDWA provides a framework in which these parties
work together to protect this valuable resource.
US EPA sets national standards for drinking water
based on sound science to protect against health
risks, considering available technology and costs.
These National Primary Drinking Water Regulations
set enforceable maximum contaminant levels for
particular contaminants in drinking water or required
ways to treat
water to remove
contaminants.
Each standard
also includes
requirements for
water systems
to test for
contaminants
in the water
to make sure
standards are
achieved. In
addition to
setting these
standards, US
EPA provides
guidance,
assistance,
and public
information
about drinking
water, collects
drinking water data, and oversees state drinking water
programs.
The most direct oversight of water systems is
conducted by state drinking water programs. States
can apply to US EPA for "primacy," the authority to
implement SDWA within their jurisdictions, if they
can show that they will adopt standards at least as
stringent as US EPA's and make sure water systems
meet these standards. All states and territories, except
Wyoming and the District of Columbia, have received
primacy. While no Indian tribe has yet applied for
and received primacy, four tribes currently receive
"treatment as a state" status, and ore eJigible for
p~imacy. States, or US EPA acting as a primacy agent,
make sure water systems test for contaminants, review
plans for water system improvements, conduct on-site
inspections and sanitary surveys, provide training and
technical assistance, and take action against water
systems not meeting standards.
To ensure that drinking water is safe, SDWA sets up
multiple barriers against pollution. These barriers
include: source water protection, treatmertt, distribution
system inJegrity, and public information. Public water
systems are ~esponsible for ensuring that contaminants
in tap water do not exceed the standards. Water systems
treat the water, and must test their water frequently
for specified contaminants and report the results to
states. If a water system is not meeting these standards,
it is the water supplier's responsibility to notify its
customers. Many water suppliers now are also required
to prepare annual reports for their customers. The
public is responsible for helping local water suppliers
to set priorities, make decisions on funding and system
improvements, and establish programs to protect drinking
water sources. Water systems across the nation rely on
citizen advisory committees, rate boards, volunteers, and
civic leaders to actively protect this resource in every
community in America.
Protection & Prevention:
[sser~tial components of safe drinking water include
p~otection and prevention. States and water suppliers
must cat, duct assessments of water sources to see
where they may be vulnerable to contamination. Water
systems may also voluntarily adopt programs to protect
their watershed or wellhead, and states can use legal
authorities from other laws to prevent pollution. SDWA
mandates that states have programs
to certify water system operators and
make sure that new water systems
have the technical, financial, and
managerial capacity to provide safe
drinking 'crater. SDWA also sets a
framework for the Underground
h'qec~ion Control (UIC) program
ta control the ir~jection of wastes
h~to grouted water. US EPA and
states implement the UIC program,
which sets standards for safe waste
rejection practices and bans certain
types of injection altogether. Alt of
these programs help prevent the
contamination of drinking water.
Setting National Drinking Water
Standards:
US EPA sets national standards for tap water which help
ensure consistent quality in our nation's water supply.
US EPA prioritizes contaminants for potential regulation
based on risk and how often they occur in water supplies.
(To aid in this effort, certain water systems monitor
for the presence of
contaminants for which
no national standards
currently exist and
collect information
on their occurrence).
US EPA sets a health
goat based on risk
(including risks to the
most sensitive people,
e.g., infants, children,
pregnant women,
the elderly, and the
immuno-compromised).
US EPA then sets a
legal limit for the contaminant in drinking water or a
required treatment technique--this limit or treatment
technique is set to be as close to the health goal as
feasible. US EPA also performs a cost-benefit analysis
and obtains input from interested parties when setting
standards. US EPA is currently evaluating the risks
from several specific health concerns, including:
mic~obic~l cor~taminants (e.g., Cryptosporidium}; the
byproducts of drinking water disinfection; radon;
c~se~ic; and water systems that don't currently
disinfect their water but get it from a potentially
vulnerable ground water source.
Funding and Assistance:
US EPA provides grants to implement
state drinking water programs, and to
help each state set up a special fund to
assist public water systems in financing
the costs of improvements {called the
drinking water state revolving fund).
Small water systems are given special
consideration, since small systems
may have o more difficult time paying
for syslem ~mprovements due to their
sm,~lle~ custome~ base. Accordingly,
US EPA and states provide them with
exha assistance (including training
a~d funding) as well as allowing, on
c~ caseby- case basis, alternate water
hec~tments that are less expensive, but
slill p~otective of public health.
Compliance and Enforcement:
Natior~al drinking water standards are legally
enforceable, which means that both US EPA and states
can take enforcement actions against water systems
not meeting safety standards. US EPA and states may
issue administrative orders, take legal actions, or
fine utilities. US EPA and states also work to increase
water systems, understanding of, and compliance with,
standards~
Public Information:
SDWA recognizes that since everyone drinks water,
everyone has the right to know what's in it and
where it comes from. All water suppliers must notify
consumers quickly when there is a
serious problem with water quality.
Water systems serving the same people
year-round must provide annual
consumer confidence reports on the
source and quality of their tap water.
States and US EPA must prepare annual
summary reports of water system
compliance with drinking water safety
standards and make these reports
available to the public. The public
must have a chance to be involved in
developing source water assessment
programs, state plans to use drinking
water state revolving loan funds, state
capacity development plans, and state
operator certification programs.
For More Information:
To learn more about the Safe Drinking Water Act or
drinking water in general, call the Safe Drinking Water
Hotline at 1-800-426-4791, or visit US EPA's Office
of Ground Water and Drinking Water web site: www.
epa.gov/safewater.
Office of Water (4606) www. epa.gov/safewater EPA 816-F-04-030 June 2004
Drinking Water Treatment
SAf"E] DRINKING WATER ACT · 1974-2004 · PROTECT OUR HEALTH FROM SOURCE TO TAP
Public Water Systems
Public Water Systems (PWSs) come in all shapes
and sizes, and no two are exactly the same. They
may be publicly or privately owned and maintained.
While their design may vary, they all share the same
goal: providing safe, reliable drinking water to
the communities they serve. To do this, most water
systems must treat their water. The types of treatment
provided by a specific PWS vary depending on the
size of the system, whether they use ground water or
surface water, and the quality of the source water.
Transient non,
Tapping a Source of Water
Large-scale water supply systems tend to rely on
surface water sources, while smaller systems tend
to rely on ground water. Around 32 percent of the
population served by community water systems
(CWSs) drink
water that
originates as
ground water.
Ground water is
usually pumped
from wells
ranging from
shallow to deep
(50 to 1,000
feet). The remaining 68 percent of the population
served by CWSs receive water taken primarily from
surface water sources like rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
Treating Raw Water
The amount and type of treatment applied by a PW5
varies with the source type and quality. Many ground
water systems can satisfy all federal requirements
without applying any treatment, while others need
to add chlorine or additional treatment. US EPA
is developing a ground water rule that will specify
the appropriate use of disinfection and will address
other components of ground water systems to assure
public health protection· Because surface water
systems are exposed to direct wet weather runoff
and to the atmosphere and are therefore more easily
contaminated, federal and state regulations require
that these systems treat their water. Disinfection
of drinking water is one of the major public
health advances of the 20th century. However, the
disinfectants themselves can react with naturally
occurring materials in the water to form unintended
byproducts which may pose health risks. A major
challenge for water suppliers is balancing the risks
from microbial pathogens and disinfection byproducts.
The Stage 1 Disinfectants and Disinfection Byproducts
Rule and the Interim Enhanced Surface Water
Treatment Rule together address these risks.
Water suppliers use a variety of treatment processes
to remove contaminants from drinking water. These
individual processes may be arranged in a "treatment
train" (a series of processes applied in sequence).
[he most commonly used processes include filtration,
fh~cculation and sedimentation, and disinfection for
surface wc~ter. Some treatment trains also include
ion exchange and adsorption. Water utilities select a
combination of treatment processes most appropriate
to treat the contaminants found in the raw water used
by the system.
Types of Treatment
Flocculation/Sedimentation: Flocculation
refers to water treatment processes that combine or
coagulate small
particles into larger
particles, which
settle out of the
water as sediment.
(used alone al
with metal salts)
are generally
used to promote
coagulation. Settling
occurs naturally as
flocculated particles
settle out of the
Filtration: Many
filhcltio~ to remc~ve ali particles from the water. Those
particles include clays and silts, natural organic
Filtration clarifies water and enhances the
effectiveness of disinfection.
removed adequately by filtration or sedimentation. Ion
exchange can be used to treat hard water. It can also
Absarplion: Organic contaminants, unwanted
crubon a~d a~e thus removed from the drinking water.
Disinfection (chlorination/ozonation): Water
syslem lc) ensure that potentially dangerous microbes
The Water Cycle - Drinking water can come from both surface water
and ground water, The water cycle begins with rainwater and snow melt
that gathers in lakes and rivers which interact with ground water,
are killed. Chlorine, chloramines, or chlorine dioxide
are most often used because they are very effective
disinfectants, not only at the treatment plant but
also in the pipes that distribute water to our homes
and businesses. Ozone is a powerful disinfectant,
and ultraviolet radiation is an effective disinfectant
and treatment for relatively clean source waters, but
neither of these are effective in controlling biological
contaminants in the distribution pipes.
Monitoring Water Quality
Water systems monitor
for a wide variety of
contaminants to verify
that the water they
provide to the public
meets all federal
and state standards.
Currently, the nation's
community water
systems (CWSs) and
nontransient non-
community water
systems (NTNCWSs)
must monitor for more
than 83 contaminants.
The major classes of
contaminants include
volatile organic
compounds (VOCs),
synthetic organic
compounds (SaCs),
inorganic compounds
(laCs), radionuclides,
and microbial organisms (including bacteria). Testing
for these contami~ants takes place on varying
schedules and at different locations throughout the
water system.
Transient non-community water systems may monitor
less frequently and for fewer contaminants than CWSs.
Because these types of systems serve an ever-changing
population, it is most important for them to monitor
for contaminants such as microbiologicals and nitrate
that can cause an immediate, acute public health
effect. Water systems also monitor for a number of
contaminants that are currently not regulated. These
monitoring data provides the basis for identifying
contaminants to be regulated in the future.
Distribution to Customers
An underground network of pipes typically delivers
drinking water to the homes and businesses served
by the water system. Small systems serving just a
handful of households may be relatively simple. Large
metropolitan water systems can be exfremely comple×
· sometimes with thousands of miles of piping serving
millions of people. Although water may be safe when
leaving the water treatment plant it is important to
ensure that this water does not become contaminated
in the distribution system because of such things as
water main breaks, pressure problems, or growth of
r'n~c:~o ~rgo~ism~. Much of the existing drinking water
infrastructure was built many years ago. The US
EPA h~frashucture Needs Survey, released in 2001,
estimated that drinking water systems wiJJ need to
invest $150.9 billion over a 20 year period to ensure
the continued source development, storage, treatment,
and distribution of safe drinking water. Many agree
this is a very conservative Iow estimate.
For More Information
To learn more about drinking water treatment
and treatment techniques, call the Safe Drinking
Water Hotline at 1-800-426-4791 or visit the
safewater web site at www. epe.gov/safewater.
Water Treatment Plant
Follow a drop of water from the source through the treatment process. Water may be treated differently in
different communities depending on ttie quality of the water which enters the plant. Groundwater is located
underground and typically requires less treatment than water from lakes, rivers, and streams,
Lake or Reservoir
0
Coagulation removes dirt and other particles suspended in
water. Alum and other chemicals are added to water to form
tiny sticky particles called "floc" which attract the dirt
particles, The combined weight of the dirt and the alum
(floc) become heavy enough to sink to the bottom during
sedimentation.
Sedimentation:
The heavy particles
(floc) settle to the
bottom and the
clear water moves
to filtration.
Disinfection: A small amount of chlorine is added or
some other disinfection method is used to kill any
bacteda or microorganisms that may be in the water.
Storage: Water is placed in
a closed tank or reservoir
for disinfection to take
place. The water then flows
through pipes to homes
and businesses in the
community.
Filtration: The water passes
through filters, some made
of layem of sand, gravel,
chamoal that help remove
even smaller particles·
6
Source: AWWA Drinking Water Week Blue Thumb Kit
Office of Water (4606) www. epa.gov/safewater EPA 816-F-04-034
WATER FACTS
,AIF~ 1)IIlNKING WATER ACF 1974-2004 PROTECT OUR HEALqH FROM SOLiRCE TO TAP
Drinking Water Facts And Figures
· Water is the only substance found on earth in
three forms solid, liquid, and gas.
· A person can live more than a month without
food, but only about a week, depending on
conditions, without water.
· 66% of the human body is water; 75% of the
human brain is water.
· 75% of o chicken, 80% of a pineapple, and
95% of a tomato is water.
· A person must consume 2.5 quarts of water per
day from all sources (drinking, eating) to maintain
health.
· Water regulates the earth's temperature. It also
regulates the temperature of the human body,
carries nutrients and oxygen to cells, cushions
joints, protects organs and tissues, and removes
wastes.
· It is possible for people today to drink water that
was part of the dinosaur era.
Usage
· Industries as well as people need water. It
takes, on average, 39,090 gallons of water to
manufacture a new car and its four tires.
· 62,600 gallons of water are needed to produce
one ton of steel; 1,500 gallons to process one
barrel of beer; and 9.3 gallons to process one can
of fruit or vegetables.
· On average, 50-70% of household water is
used outdoors (watering lawns, washing cars).
· The average American uses over 100 gallons
of water per day; the average residence uses over
100,000 gallons during a year.
· Americans drink more than 1 billion glasses of
tap water per day.
Infrastructure
~nThe average cost for water supplied to a home
the U.S. is about $2.00 for 1,000 gallons,
which equals about 5 gallons for a penny.
· It costs over $3.5 billion to operate water
systems throughout the United States each year.
What You Can Do To Keep Your Drinking Water Safe
Be Aware of Your Water Source & Supplier
· Where does your water come from?
· Who is your water supplier?
· Has your water been tested recently?
· Is it tested regularly?
· How is it treated and protected from
contamination?
· Have water shortages occurred in your community?
· Conserve water in the home or on the Farm
· Improve water use and management practices.
· Repair leaking faucets and toilets.
· Understand crop needs for water and irrigate
appropriately.
· Water your lawn wisely.
· Take short showers.
· Turn off the water while brushing your teeth.
· [urn off the hose while washing your car.
Minimize the Production of Waste
· Compost vegetable waste.
· Recycle newspapers, aluminum cans, glass
containers.
· Don't buy more of anything than you can use.
· Recycle used motor oil, batteries, paints, solvents,
and chemicals.
· Think of the impact of what you do on water
quality.
Wisely Use and Dispose of Household Lawn &
Garden Chemicals
· Follow all directions carefully.
· Use or~ly what you need.
· Sponsor or participate in pesticide collection/
disposal activities.
Learn the Facts About Your Water
· Look for and read your consumer confidence report
(annual water quality report). Call your water supplier
to get a copy.
· Don't believe everything you hear or read in
advertisements - get the facts.
· Review results of drinking water tests in your
community.
· Attend public meetings.
· Follow the news about drinking water matters, such
as the development of new standards.
Learn about potential contamination sources of
ground water and surface water.
Get Involved in Your Community
· Urge your water supplier and state and local
regulatory and health officials to ensure that your
water supply complies with all standards.
· Support efforts to educate the public and elected
officials about the need to protect and improve the
quality of drinking water.
· Express willingness to pay higher water rates, if
necessary, to finance improvements in water quality.
· Suppod efforts to protect water supplies.
For More Information
To learn more about drinking water, call the
Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1-800~426~4791
or visit the safewater web site at www. epa.gov/
safewater.
Office of Water (4606) www. epa.gov/safewater EPA 816-F-04-036 June 2004
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND REQUIRED
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
Suffolk County Water Authority
Years Ended May 31, 2009 and 2008
With Report of Independent Auditors
Suffolk County Water Authority
Financial Statements and
Required Supplemental Information
Years Ended May 31, 2009 and 2008
Contents
Report of Independent Auditors ....................................................................................................... 1
Management's Discussion and Analysis ......................................................................................... 3
Financial Statements
Balance Sheets ............................................................................................................................... 13
Statements of Revenues, Expenses and Changes in Fund Net Assets ........................................... 14
Statements of Cash Flows .............................................................................................................. 15
Notes to Financial Statements ........................................................................................................ 16
Required Supplemental Information
Schedule of Funding Progress for the Retiree Healthcare Plan ............................................................ 40
Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting and on Compliance
and Other Matters Based on an Audit of the Financial Statements Performed
in Accordance With Government Auditing Standards ................................................................ 41
Ernst & Young LLP
Five Times Square
New York, NY 10036-6530
Tel: +1 212 773 3000
Fax: +1 212 773 6350
www.e¥.com
Report of Independent Auditors
To the Members of
Suffolk County Water Authority
We have audited the accompanying balance sheets of the Suffolk County Water Authority (the
"Authority") as of May 31, 2009 and 2008, and the related statements of revenues, expenses and
changes in fund net assets and cash flows for the years then ended. These financial statements
are the responsibility of the Authority's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion
on these financial statements based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United
States and the standards applicable to financial audits contained in Government Auditing
Standards, issued by the Comptroller General of the United States. Those standards require that
we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial
statements are free of material misstatement. We were not engaged to perform an audit of the
Authority's internal control over financial reporting. Our audit included consideration of internal
control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in
the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the
Authority's internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion.
An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in
the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made
by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our
audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects,
the net assets of the Authority as of May 31, 2009 and 2008, and the changes in its net assets and
its cash flows for the years then ended, in conformity with accounting principles generally
accepted in the United States.
As discussed in Note 9, during 2008 the Authority adopted the accounting provisions of GASB
Statement No. 45, Accounting and Financial Reporting by Employers for Postemployment
Benefits Other Than Pensions.
In accordance with Government Auditing Standards, we have also issued our report dated August
31, 2009 on our consideration of the Authority's internal control over financial reporting and on
our tests of its compliance with certain provisions of laws, regulations, contracts, and grant
agreements and other matters. The purpose of that report is to describe the scope of our testing of
internal control over financial reporting and compliance and the results of that testing, and not to
provide an opinion on the internal control over financial reporting or on compliance. That report
is an integral part of an audit performed in accordance with Government Auditing Standards and
should be considered in assessing the results of our audit.
1
Management's discussion and analysis and the schedule of funding progress for the retiree
healthcare plan, on pages 3 to 12, and page 40, respectively, are not a required part of the
financial statements but are supplementary information required by the Governmental
Accounting Standards Board. We have applied certain limited procedures, which consisted
principally of inquiries of management regarding methods of measurement and presentation of
this required supplemental information. However, we did not audit the information and express
no opinion on it.
August 31, 2009
2
Suffolk County Water Authority
Management's Discussion and Analysis
The primary purpose of the Suffolk County Water Authority (the "Authority") is to establish a
single, integrated public water supply and distribution system providing pure water at a
reasonable cost to serve Suffolk County.
The Financial Statements
The balance sheets provide information about the nature and amounts of investments in
resources (assets) and the obligations to the Authority's creditors (liabilities), with the difference
between the two reported as net assets.
The statements of revenues, expenses and changes in fund net assets report how the Authority's
net assets changed during each year. The statements account for all of the years' revenues and
expenses, measure the financial results of the Authority's operations for the years and can be
used to determine how the Authority has funded its costs.
The statements of cash flows provide information about the Authority's cash receipts, cash
payments and net changes in cash resulting from operations, investing activities and capital and
related financing activities.
The notes to the financial statements contain information that is essential to understanding the
financial statements, such as the Authority's accounting methods and policies.
Management provides the following discussion and analysis ("MD&A") of the Authority's
financial activities and financial statements. This overview is provided for the fiscal years ended
May 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007. The reader should use the information contained in this analysis
in conjunction with the information contained in the audited financial statements, all of which
follow this narrative on the subsequent pages.
3
Suffolk County Water Authority's Changes in Net Assets
Operating revenues
Water service
Other
Total operating revenues
Year Ended May 31
2009 2008 2007
(In Thousands)
$119,241 $127,686 $119,610
14,306 12,277 10,540
133,547 139,963 130,150
103,476 97,554 84,591
36,200 34,845 32,030
139,676 132,399 116,621
(6,129) 7,564 13,529
Operating expenses
Operations and maintenance
Depreciation and amortization
Total operating expenses
Operating (loss) / income
Nonoperating revenues and expenses
Interest expense, net
Costs to be recovered from future revenues
Capital reimbursement fees
Unrealized gain on investments
Legal Settlement
Total nonoperating revenues and expenses
Increase in net assets
Net assets, beginning of year
Net assets, end of year
(17,852) (16,115) (14,888)
12,322 11,972 -
8,629 10,283 10,029
500 1,461 1,076
78,533 - -
82,132 7,601 (3,783)
76,003 15,165 9,746
570,726 555,561 545,815
$ 646,729 $ 570,726 $ 555,561
Operating Revenues
Water service revenues decreased $8.5 million or 6.6% during the current fiscal year from
$127.7 million for the 2008 fiscal year to $119.2 million for the 2009 fiscal year. The decrease
was a result of reduced demand of 7.3% on the system as compared to the prior year.
Water service revenues increased $8.1 million or 6.8% during the previous year from $119.6
million for the 2007 fiscal year to $127.7 million for the 2008 fiscal year. The increase was a
result of an increased demand of 5.4% on the system as compared to the prior year, offset by
customer growth of below 1%, and an average rate increase of 4% effective April 1, 2008.
Other operating revenues increased $2.0 million or 16.3% from $12.3 million for the 2008 fiscal
year to $14.3 million for the 2009 fiscal year. The increase is primarily attributable to increases
from the cost of living adjustments in antennae leases, antennae site enhancement fees, and
additional antennae lease sites.
4
Other operating revenues increased $1.8 million or 17.1% from $10.5 million for the 2007 fiscal
year to $12.3 million for the 2008 fiscal year. The increase is primarily attributable to increases
from the cost of living adjustments in antennae leases and additional antennae lease sites.
Operating Expenses
Operations and maintenance expense increased $5.9 million or 6.0% from $97.6 million for the
2008 fiscal year to $103.5 million for the 2009 fiscal year. The $5.9 million increase was mainly
attributable to increases in operations and maintenance of wells and pump stations ($0.2 million),
power costs ($1.9 million), transmission and distribution costs ($3.0 million), and treatment costs
($0.8 million).
Operations and maintenance expense increased $13.0 million or 15.3% from $84.6 million for
the 2007 fiscal year to $97.6 million for the 2008 fiscal year. The $13.0 million increase was
mainly attributable to the recording of other postemployment benefits ("OPEB"), in accordance
with GASB Statement No. 45, Accounting and Financial Reporting by Employers for
Postemployment Benefits Other Than Pensions, ($12.0 million). Other operating and
maintenance costs attributable to the remaining $1.0 million increase are treatment costs ($1.4
million), workers' compensation costs ($0.4 million), laboratory costs ($0.4 million),
uncollectible accounts ($0.3 million), employee benefits ($0.6 million), and public relations
($0.2 million) offset by decreased costs incurred for general insurance costs ($0.4 million),_~
maintenance of mains ($0.3 million), hydrants ($0.4 million) and services ($0.3 million), and
system maintenance ($0.9 million).
Depreciation and amortization expenses were $36.2 million during fiscal 2009 as compared to
$34.8 million during fiscal 2008, an increase of $1.4 million or 4.0%. The increase is attributable
to additional capital assets placed in service during fiscal year 2009 along with goodwill-related
amortization.
Depreciation and amortization expenses were $34.8 million during fiscal 2008 as compared to
$32.0 million during fiscal 2007, an increase of $2.8 million or 8.7%. The increase is attributable
to additional capital assets placed in service during fiscal year 2008 along with goodwill-related
amortization.
Total amortization is $0.582 million and $0.623 million for fiscal years 2009 and 2008,
respectively.
Nonoperating Revenues and Expenses
Capital reimbursement fees were $8.6 million during fiscal 2009 as compared to $10.3 million
during fiscal 2008, a decrease of $1.7 million or 16.5% during the current year. The decrease is a
result of reduced developer main installations completed and placed in service.
Capital reimbursement fees were $10.3 million during fiscal 2008 as compared to $10.0 million
during fiscal 2007, an increase of $0.3 million or 3.0% during the current year. The increase is a
result of the amount of main and service installation completed and placed in service during the fiscal
year.
Interest expense was $24.2 million during fiscal 2009 as compared to $23.7 million during fiscal
2008, an increase of $0.5 million. This is attributable to the annual payments of principal portions of
certain outstanding long-term bonds and interest rate changes on Suffolk County Water Authority
Variable Rate Bond Anticipation Notes 2004 and 2008 (see Long-Term Debt section).
Interest expense was $23.7 million during fiscal 2008 as compared to $23.2 million during fiscal
2007, an increase of $0.5 million. This is attributable to an increase in the interest on long-term water
revenue bonds as the result of the issuance of $45 million Suffolk County Water System Revenue
Bonds 2008A and the remarketing of Suffolk County Water System Revenue Bonds 2006A from
auction rote to long-term fixed rate bonds mitigated by the reduced interest costs associated with the
outstanding Suffolk County Water Authority Variable Rate Bond Anticipation Notes (see Long-
Term Debt section).
Interest income was $6.8 million during fiscal year 2009 as compared to $9.0 million during fiscal
year 2008, a decrease of $2.2 million. An increased availability of funds negated by an
unprecedented lower interest rate environment is the main reason for this decrease.
Interest income was $9.0 million during fiscal year 2008 as compared to $9.4 million during fiscal
year 2007, a decrease of $0.4 million. The decrease is the result of market conditions, which saw a
lower interest rate environment during this past fiscal year, mitigated by the additional funds
available from net revenue and financing.
Costs to be recovered from future revenues ($12.3 million) represent the difference between the
Authority's annual required contributions for postemployment benefits other than pensions as
required by GASB Statement No. 45 and the amount paid out for such benefits by the Authority
during fiscal 2009. In accordance with FASB Statement No. 71, Accounting for the Effects of[
Certain Types of Regulation, the Authority has deferred the excess of the annual OPEB costs
over the amount paid during the fiscal year. The deferred costs will be recovered through future
revenues in accordance with the Authority's rate model.
6
Suffolk County Water Authority's Net Assets
Assets
Capital assets, net ofaccumulated
depreciation
Other assets
Total assets
May 31
2009 2008 2007
(In Thousands)
$ 997,654 $ 975,258 $ 951,024
354,633 296,839 228,428
$1,352,287 $1,272,097 $1,179,452
$ 110,018 $ 48,478 $ 44,843
28,172 16,262 4,437
567,368 636,631 574,611
705,558 701,371 623,891
361,791 380,565 389,527
36,152 36,694 33,923
248,786 153,467 132,111
646,729 570,726 555,561
$ 1,352,287 $ 1,272,097 $ 1,179,452
Liabilities
Current liabilities
Other long-term liabilities
Long-term debt
Total liabilities
Net assets
Invested in capital assets, net of related debt
Restricted for debt service
Unrestricted
Total net assets
Total liabilities and net assets
Capital Assets, Net of Accumulated Depreciation (Water Plant)
There was a net increase in water plant in fiscal 2009 of $22.4 million comprising an increase of
$58.4 million in gross water plant (including construction in progress) reduced by an increase in
accumulated depreciation of $36.0 million.
There was a net increase in water plant in fiscal 2008 of $24.2 million comprising an increase of
$54.2 million in gross water plant (including construction in progress) reduced by an increase in
accumulated depreciation of $30.0 million.
7
Current Assets
Increases (Decreases)
Cash and cash equivalents
Current portion of investments
Accounts receivable, net
Accrued water services and fire protection revenues
Materials and supplies
Prepayments and other current assets
Interest and other receivables
Net increase in current assets
May 31
2009 2008
(In Thousands)
$25,565 $ (1,161)
73,009 24,981
1,255 1,024
(764) (1,992)
1,215 804
(279) 21
(228) 14
$ 99,773 $ 23,691
Total investments, including cash and cash equivalents, were $278.9 million at May 31, 2009,
representing a net increase of $45.3 million as compared to May 31, 2008. This is the result of
additional cash provided by operations, (including a legal settlement of $78.5 million, net of
legal fees), financing, and investing activities, reduced by operating and capital expenditures.
Total investments, including cash and cash equivalents, were $233.6 million at May 31, 2008,
representing a net increase of $56.3 million as compared to May 31, 2007. This is a result of
additional cash provided by operating, financing and investing activities. On January 15, 2008,
$70 million Suffolk County Water System Variable Rate Bond Anticipation Notes, 2008 were
issued for the purpose of providing monies for the acquisition and construction of improvements
and additions to the water system.
Accrued water services and fire protection revenues reflect accrued revenue corresponding to
pumpage, which has not been billed as of May 31. Water pumped in April and May 2009 was
approximately 7.3% lower than 2008, which results in a decrease of approximately $0.8 million.
Water pumped in April and May 2008 was approximately 8.0% lower than 2007, which results
in a decrease of approximately $2.0 million.
Inventory at May 31, 2009 is valued at $8.3 million, an increase of $1.2 million compared to
May 31, 2008. Management's review and restructuring of the inventory system resulted in
reclassifying certain items from nonstock to stock.
Inventory at May 31, 2008 was valued at $7.1 million, an increase of $0.8 million compared to
May 31, 2007. Management's review and restructuring of the inventory system resulted in
reclassifying certain items from nonstock to stock. This change along with excess inventory
purchases and incremental inflationary increases resulted in the aforementioned increase.
Noncurrent Assets
The total value of noncurrent assets remained constant at approximately $1.1 billion. Variances
within non-current assets consisted of a $22.4 million increase in net capital assets, $53.2 million
decrease in investments held for construction and debt service, $12.3 million increase in costs to be
recovered from future revenues, $0.9 million decrease in deferred charges and other assets, and $0.2
million decrease in goodwill. The Authority's cost recovery rate model used to establish rates, fees
and charges includes an amount for postemployment benefits other than pensions that is expected to
be paid out during the fiscal year, but not for the amount of the annual OPEB costs as calculated
under GASB Statement No. 45. In accordance with FASB Statement No. 71, the Authority has
deferred the excess of current annual required contribution over the amount paid during the fiscal
year. The deferred costs will be recovered through future revenues in accordance with the
Authority's rate model. The amount deferred as of May 31, 2009 is $24.3 million.
Investments
The Authority's investment policy complies with the New York State Comptroller's guidelines for
investments. The investment policy permits investments in, among others, obligations of the U.S.
Treasury, its agencies, and repurchase agreements backed by such obligations. Authority investments
are reported at amounts that approximate fair value.
The Authority's unrestricted investments increased $73.0 million or 56.3% from $129.8 million as of
May 31, 2008 to $202.8 million as of May 31, 2009. The increase in investments of unrestricted
assets overall is attributable to the addition of monies available from the legal settlement from oil
companies and other operating revenues, al~er the payment of debt service reduced by the use of
funds to pay for water system capital improvements, which was paid for from revenues available
after payment of debt service and proceeds of previous financing.
The Authority's unrestricted investments increased $25.0 million or 23.8% from $104.8 million as of
May 31, 2007 to $129.8 million as of May 31, 2008. The increase in investments of unrestricted
assets overall is attributable to the addition of monies available from revenues after the payment of
debt service reduced by the use of funds to pay for water system capital improvements, which was
paid for principally from proceeds of previous financing.
Current Liabilities
The $61.5 million increase in current liabilities from 2008 to 2009 consists of increases in accounts
payable ($1.8 million), accrued interest ($0.7 million), accrued employee welfare costs ($0.4
million), customer deposits ($0.3 million) and the Suffolk County Water Authority Variable Rate
Bond Anticipation Notes, 2004, which have a final maturity date of December 1, 2009 ($60.0
million). These increases are offset by decreases in current maturities of water revenue bonds ($1.2
million), and other accrued liabilities ($0.5 million).
The $3.6 million increase in current liabilities from 2007 to 2008 consists of increases in current
maturities of water revenue bonds ($0.3 million), accounts payable ($1.0 million), accrued interest
($1.2 million), other accrued liabilities ($0.4 million), customer deposits ($0.5 million), and accrued
employee welfare costs ($0.2 million).
9
Accrued retirement contributions continue to be stable at $568,000 as of May 31, 2009 as
compared to $576,000 as of May 31, 2008. This is attributable to slightly lower contribution
rates negated by increased payroll costs. The Authority, based on the rates set by the New York
State Retirement System, has been advised the regular pension costs for the period April 1, 2009
through March 31, 2010 are estimated to be an average of 7.1% of payroll.
Accrued retirement contributions at May 31, 2008 were $576,000, which is comparable with the
$591,000 accrued at May 31, 2007. This is attributable to slightly reduced contribution rates as
established by the New York State Retirement System mitigated by increased payroll costs. The
New York State Retirement System billed the Authority regular pension costs for the period
April 1, 2008 through March 31, 2009 was $2.9 million based on an average rate of 7.6% of
payroll.
The $1.8 million increase experienced in accounts payable from 2008 to 2009 is attributable
principally to an increase in outstanding invoices related to capital and operating and
maintenance expenses processed subsequent to May 31, 2009.
The increase in customer deposits of $0.3 million is attributable to excess payments made by
customers resulting in additional customers with credit balances, additional work order deposits,
and a reduction in construction related easement deposits.
The increase in accrued interest of $0.7 million is attributable to the reduction of outstanding
debt in the course of making normally scheduled payments in accordance with debt service
schedules.
The decrease of $0.5 million in other accrued liabilities from 2008 and 2009 is primarily
attributable to the reduction in liability for potential workers' compensation claims.
Postemployment Benefits Other than Pensions
GASB Statement No. 45 establishes guidance for the financial reporting of OPEB cost over a
period that approximates employees' years of service. Under GASB Statement No. 45, based on
an actuarial valuation, an annual required contribution ("ARC") is determined by the Authority.
The ARC is the sum of (a) the normal cost for the year (the present value of future benefits being
earned by current employees) plus (b) amortization of the unfunded accrued liability (benefits
already earned by current and former employees but not yet provided for), using an amortization
period of not more than 30 years. To the extent that the Authority contributes an amount less
than the ARC, a net incremental OPEB obligation will result, which is required to be recorded as
a liability on its financial statements.
GASB Statement No. 45 does not require that the unfunded liability actually be funded, only that
the Authority account for the unfunded accrued liability. The £mancial statements at May 31,
2009 include a liability in the amount of $24.3 million that represents the Authority's unfunded
liability.
10
Long-Term Debt
The Authority's long-term debt (including current maturities and exclusive of unamortized
discounts) decreased from fiscal 2008 to fiscal 2009 by $11.0 million resulting from the
scheduled maturities during the fiscal year.
Water System Revenue and Environmental Facilities
Corporation Revenue Bonds
2009 2008 2007
(In Thousands)
New issues:
SCWA 2007 $ - $ 45,000 $ -
- 45,000 -
Maturities, retirements and defeasances:
SCWA
EFC
Net change in long-term debt
(7,385) (7,150) (6,795)
(3,583) (3,502) (3,437)
(10,968) (10,652) (10,232)
$(10,968) $ 34,348 $(10,232)
As a result of legislation initiated by New York State and enacted by the U.S. Congress, a
Drinking Water State Revolving Fund ("DWSRF") was created to provide financial incentive for
public and private water systems to finance drinking water infrastructure improvements in the
form of subsidized low interest rate loans and grants for qualified projects. The Environmental
Facilities Corporation ("EFC") administers the financial aspects of the DWSRF. The Authority
has participated in this program since 1998. The Authority has determined it advisable and
financially advantageous to continue to participate in this program.
During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2009, the Authority did not issue any Senior Lien Water
System Revenue Bonds.
Short-Term Debt
The Authority has, from time to time, issued Bond Anticipation Notes to finance improvements
and additions to the water system. During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2009, the Authority did
not issue any new Bond Anticipation Notes.
11
Net Assets Invested in Capital Assets, Net of Related Debt
Invested in capital assets, net of related debt, represents the Authority's total investment in
capital assets less related long-term debt.
The decrease of $18.8 million from 2008 to 2009 results from an additional $22.4 million in net
water plant and payments and amortization of related debt of $11.5 million offset by a decrease
in restricted investments of $52.7 million.
Net Assets, Unrestricted
Net assets, unrestricted, increased as a result of operations and a legal settlement. During the year
the Authority received net proceeds in the amount $78.5 million as settlement from legal action
commenced against most major petroleum companies for contaminating Suffolk County Water
Supplies with the gasoline additive methyl tertiary butyl ether.
Contacting the Authority's Financial Management
This financial report is designed to provide our customers, clients and creditors with a general
overview of the Authority's finances and to demonstrate the Authority's accountability for the
resources at its disposal. If you have any questions about this report or need additional financial
information, contact the Public Information Officer, Suffolk County Water Authority, 4060
Sunrise Highway, Oakdale, NY 11769.
12
Suffolk County Water Authority
Balance Sheets
Assets
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents
Investments
Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts of
$1,182 and $1,089 in 2009 and 2008, respectively
Accrued water services and fire protection revenues
Interest and other receivables
Materials and supplies
Prepayments and other current assets
Total current assets
Restricted investments
Goodwill
Costs to be recovered from future revenues
Deferred charges and other assets
Capital assets, net
Total assets
Liabilities and net assets
Current liabilities:
Current maturities of bond anticipation notes payable
Current maturities of bonds payable
Accounts payable
Accrued interest
Accrued employee welfare costs
Other accrued liabilities
Customer deposits
Total current liabilities
Bond anticipation notes payable
Bonds payable, less current portion
Postemployment benefits other than pension
Advances for construction
Total liabilities
Commitments and contingencies
Net assets:
Invested in capital assets, net of related debt
Restricted for debt service
Unrestricted
Total net assets
Total liabilities and net assets
See accompanying notes.
May31
2009 2008
$ 28,066 $ 2,50l
202,776 129,767
11,115 9,860
13,912 14,676
1,193 1,421
8,303 7,088
1,678 1,957
267,043 167,270
48,082 101,357
3,783 3,934
24,293 11,972
11,432 12,306
997,654 975,258
1,085,244 1,104,827
$ 1,352,287 $ 1,272,097
$ 60,000 $ -
9,755 10,968
9,376 7,591
10,730 9,962
6,804 6,381
4,471 5,021
8,882 8,555
110,018 48,478
70,000 130,000
497,368 506,631
24,293 11,972
3,879 4,290
705,558 701,371
361,791 380,565
36,152 36,694
248,786 153,467
646,729 570,726
$ 1,352,287 $ 1,272,097
13
Suffolk County Water Authority
Statements of Revenues, Expenses and Changes in
Fund Net Assets
Operating revenues:
Water service
Other
Total operating revenues
Operating expenses:
Operations
Maintenance
Depreciation and amortization
Total operating expenses
Operating (loss) income
Nonoperating revenues and expenses:
Interest expense
Income from investments
Costs to be recovered from future revenues
Capital reimbursement fees
Legal Settlement
Total nonoperating revenues and expenses
Increase in net assets
Net assets:
Beginning of year
End of year
See accompanying notes.
Year Ended May 31
2009 2008
(In Thousands)
$119,241 $127,686
14,306 12,277
133,547 139,963
83,579 78,888
19,897 18,666
36,200 34,845
139,676 132,399
(6,129) 7,564
(24,184) (23,680)
6,832 9,026
12,322 11,972
8,629 10,283
78,533 -
82,132 7,601
76,003 15,165
570,726 555,561
$ 646,729 $ 570,726
14
Suffolk County Water Authority
Statements of Cash Flows
Cash flows from operating activities
Cash receipts from customers
Other operating cash receipts
Cash payments to suppliers of goods and services
Cash payments to employees for services
Net cash provided by operating activities
Cash flows from noncapital financing activities
Receipts from legal settlements
Net cash provided by noncapital financing activities
Cash flows from investing activities
Purchase of investments
Proceeds from sales and maturities of investments
Interest received
Net cash used in investing activities
Cash flows from capital and related financing activities
Additions to water plant, net ofm~tiremants
Proceeds from issuance of notes payable
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt
Repayment of notes payable
Repayment of cune~t maturities of bonds payable
Interest paid
Proceeds from advances for construction, net of refunds
Net cash used in capital and related financing activities
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year
Reconciliation of operating income to net cash provided by operating activities
Operating (loss) income
Depreciation and amortization expense
(Increase) decrease in operating assets:
Accounts receivable
Accrued water services and fire protection revenues
Materials and supplies and prepayments
Other assets
Costs to be recovered from future revenues
Increase (decrease) in operating liabilities:
Accounts payable
Accrued employee welfare costs
Other accrued liabilities
Customer deposits
Net cash provided by operating activities
Noncash investing activities
Increase in the fair value of investments
See accompanying notes.
Year Ended May 31
2009 2008
(In Thousands)
$ 118,750 $ 128,654
14,392 12,599
(20,881) (45,424)
(68,436) (39,623)
43,825 56,206
78,533
78,533
(78,533) (173,984)
59,299 I 18,006
6~560 7,565
(12,674) (48,413)
(58,4451 (58,928)
- 70,000
- 45,000
- (41,900)
(9,970) (10,764)
(23,922) (22,498)
8,218 10,136
(84,119) (8,954)
25,565 (1,161)
2~501 3,662
$ 28,066 $ 2,501
$ (6,129) $ 7,564
36,200 34,845
0,255) (i,o24)
764 1,992
(936) (825)
874 (455)
12,321 11,972
1,785 1,047
423 230
(550) 414
328 446
$ 43,825 $ 56,206
$ 500 $ 1,461
15
Suffolk County Water Authority
Notes to Financial Statements
May 31, 2009
1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Suffolk County Water Authority (the "Authority") is a public benefit corporation, created by
resolution of the Suffolk County Board of Supervisors in 1937, with a two-fold purpose. The
first was to acquire, construct, maintain and operate a public water supply for Suffolk County.
The second was to develop a single, integrated public water supply and distribution system to
serve all of Suffolk County. The accounts of the Authority are maintained generally in
accordance with the Uniform System of Accounts prescribed by the New York State Public
Service Commission ("PSC"), although the Authority is not subject to PSC rules and regulations.
The rates established by the Authority do not require PSC or Suffolk County Legislative
approval.
Basis of Presentation
In its accounting and financial reporting, the Authority follows the pronouncements of the
Governmental Accounting Standards Board ("GASB"). In addition, the Authority follows the
pronouncements of only applicable Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") Statements
and Interpretations, issued on or before November30, 1989, unless they conflict with or
contradict GASB pronouncements.
In accordance with GASB standards, the accounting and financial reporting treatment applied to
the Authority is determined by its measurement focus. As required by GASB standards, the
transactions of the Authority are accounted for on a flow of economic resources measurement
focus and accrual basis of accounting.
Capital Assets
Capital Assets are recorded at original cost. The capitalized cost of additions capital assets
includes charges for ancillary construction costs such as construction period interest,
engineering, supervision, payroll taxes and pension benefits. The original cost of property
replaced, retired or otherwise disposed of in ordinary retirements is deducted from capital
accounts and together with costs to remove is charged to accumulated depreciation. The costs of
repairs, minor betterments and renewals are charged to maintenance expense as incurred.
Depreciation
Water plant depreciation is provided on the straight-line basis using a composite annual rate of
2.84%, which is based on the average service lives and net salvage values of properties.
16
Suffolk County Water Authority
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
Capitalized Interest
The Authority capitalizes interest on constructed assets during the period of construction. The
amount of interest cost capitalized on qualifying assets acquired with proceeds of tax-exempt
borrowings that are extemally restricted to finance acquisition of specified assets is all interest
cost of the borrowings less any interest earned on related interest-bearing investments acquired
with such unexpended proceeds from the date of the borrowings until the assets are substantially
complete and are ready for their intended use. Interest cost capitalized during the years ended
May 31, 2009 and 2008 was approximately $973,925 and $1,770,000, respectively.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Investments with original maturities of 90 days or less are considered cash equivalents and
carried at amounts that approximate fair value.
Investments
All investments with original maturities of longer than 90 days are reported as investments and
are carried at fair value, except for investment agreements and certificates of deposit. Investment
agreements, which can take the form of open time deposits or fixed repurchase agreements, are
reported at an amount equal to principal and accrued interest. Certificates of deposit are valued at
cost.
Investments Held for Debt Service
In accordance with the 1988 General Bond Resolution, as amended (the "Resolution"), the
Authority maintains a debt service reserve and bond funds (or bond insurance, as described in
Note 5). These reserves are held by a Fiscal Agent.
Investments held for debt service reserve and bond funds are restricted by the Resolution solely
for the purpose of paying the principal and interest on the bonds and for retiring the bonds prior
to maturity. Amounts in the debt service reserve and bond funds are invested in U.S. Treasury
Notes and U.S. government securities.
17
Suffolk County Water Authority
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
Investments Held for Construction
In accordance with the Resolution, monies held for construction in the construction fund are
restricted for the costs of acquiring, constructing and replacing the water system.
Goodwill
Goodwill was derived from the Authority's acquisition of various private water purveyors. The
Authority amortizes goodwill over a 40-year period.
Advances for Construction and Capital Reimbursement Fees
Under current standard construction contracts with residential real estate developers and others,
the developer advances to the Authority the cost of new main installations based on a flat cost
per foot. Upon completion of construction, the monies are recognized as capital reimbursement
fees in the statements of revenues, expenses and changes in fund net assets. Provisions exist, and
are infrequently exercised, whereby the developer may receive reimbursement if the actual
footage of the main installed was less than 95% of the original estimate. These refunds are made
from the construction advance account.
There exist certain construction contracts with residential real estate developers and others,
whereby the developer advances to the Authority the cost of new main installations based on
actual costs. Upon completion of construction, the developer is either billed (not to exceed 10%
of original estimate) or refunded the difference between the advance and actual cost. The monies
paid by the developer are recognized as capital reimbursement fees in the statements of revenues,
expenses and changes in fund net assets when the construction is completed.
Capital reimbursement fees also include the original cost of systems paid to the Authority by
municipalities and others as well as service, tapping and other fees.
Water District Contracts
The Authority has entered into a number of contracts with various municipalities throughout
Suffolk County for the purpose of installing water mains within the related municipality's
created water district. Under the terms of these contracts, the municipality agrees to pay for the
installation of the water main, plus interest over a 38-year period. The Authority agrees to
18
Suffolk County Water Authority
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
provide a credit against the gross payments due under the contract equal to 40% of the water
revenues collected from customers within the designated water supply district. The amount of the
credit cannot exceed the gross payments due.
As of May 31, 2009, the Authority had 19 active contracts where the credit did not equal the
gross amount due. Annual gross payments for these contracts range from $1,500 to $357,000
with final maturity dates between 2012 and 2035. The cumulative gross payments due for all of
these water district contracts through their respective maturity dates amount to approximately
$21,660,000. The Authority has elected not to record the value of these contracts as an asset and
liability at May 31, 2009.
The cost of these installations has been paid for and capitalized through the Authority's capital
budget.
Debt Issuance Costs, Bond Discount and Other Bond Related Costs
Debt issuance costs and bond discount and premium are amortized over the life of the related
bond issues. Premiums paid in connection with interest rate cap agreements are amortized and
reported as interest expense over the life of the respective agreements. Deferred bond refunding
costs are amortized to expense over the shorter of the life of the refunding bonds or the refunded
bonds.
Customer Deposits
As security for the payment of bills, the Authority generally requires a deposit from commercial
customers and high volume water users. No interest is paid on such deposits.
Accrued Employee Welfare Costs
The Authority accrues the expected value of all vacation and sick leave benefits earned by
employees to date.
Revenues
The Authority distinguishes operating revenues and expenses from nonoperating items in the
preparation of its financial statements. Operating revenues and expenses generally result from
providing services in connection with the Authority's principal ongoing operations. Water
19
Suffolk County Water Authority
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
service revenues are recognized based on actual customer water usage, including estimates for
unbilled periods. Other operating revenues are recognized when service has been rendered and
collection is reasonably assured. The Authority's operating expenses include operations and
maintenance expenses. All revenues and expenses not meeting this definition are reported as
nonoperating revenues and expenses.
When both restricted and unrestricted resources are available for use, it is the Authority's policy
to use restricted resources first, and then unrestricted resources as needed.
Costs to Be Recovered from Future Revenues
The Authority's cost recovery rate model used to establish rates, fees and charges includes an
amount for postemployment benefits other than pensions that are expected to be paid out during
the fiscal year, but not for the amount of the annual required contribution as calculated under
GASB Statement No. 45, Accounting and Financial Reporting by Employers for
Postemployment Benefits Other Than Pensions. In accordance with FASB Statement No. 71,
Accounting for the Effects of Certain Types of Regulation, the Authority has deferred the excess
of current annual required contribution over the amount paid during the 2009 fiscal year. The
deferred costs will be recovered through future revenues in accordance with the Authority's rate
model. The deferred amount for the year ended May 31, 2009 and 2008 was determined as
follows:
Costs excluded from rate model:
Annual OPEB costs recoverable from rate payers
Cost included in the rate model:
Amount of current year payments
Balance, beginning of the year
Balance, end of the year
May 31
2009 2008
$ 15,682,886 $ 15,204,025
(3,361,806) (3,232,506)
12,321,080 11,971,519
11,971,519 -
$ 24,292,599 $ 11,971,519
20
Suffolk County Water Authority
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
Legal Settlement
In August 2002, the Authority and the County of Suffolk commenced legal action against most
major petroleum companies for contaminating Suffolk County water supplies with the gasoline
additive methyl tertiary butyl ether. During the fiscal year ending May 31, 2009, the Authority
reached a settlement with all of the defendants, except one minor defendant, and received $78.5
million in net settlement proceeds reflected as non-operating revenues.
Use of Resources
Pursuant to the Resolution, revenues received are used as follows: (1) payment of operations and
maintenance expenses, (2) payment of debt service, and (3) to be used for any lawful purpose of
the Authority, including use by the construction fund. The payment of capital expenditures is
generally paid for by restricted bond proceeds; other restricted resources, and by the utilization
of fimds held in unrestricted net assets.
Income Taxes
As a public benefit corporation of the State of New York, the Authority is exempt from federal,
state and local income taxes.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally
accepted in the United States requires management to make estimates and assumptions that
affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenue and expenses, as well as disclosures
within the financial statements. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Significant estimates relate to accounts receivable, accrued water services and fire protection
revenues, water plant, accrued employee welfare costs, workers' compensation and
postemployment benefits.
21
Suffolk County Water Authority
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (continued)
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
In November 2006, the GASB issued Statement No. 49, Accounting and Financial Reporting for
Pollution Remediation Obligations. This Statement establishes specific guidance on the
measurement and recognition of pollution remediation obligations or responsibilities. The
guidance lists what events must occur for a government to be required to calculate and report a
pollution remediation liability. The Authority adopted GASB Statement No. 49 in fiscal 2009; it
had no effect on the accompanying financial statements.
In May 2007, the GASB issued Statement No. 50, Pension Disclosures - an amendment of
GASB Statements No. 25 and No. 27. This Statement more closely aligns the GASB's financial
reporting requirements for pensions with those for other postemployment benefits ("OPEB").
The reporting changes required by this Statement amend applicable note disclosures and required
supplemental information for pensions. The Authority adopted GASB Statement No. 50 in fiscal
2009; it had no effect on the accompanying financial statements.
In June 2007, the GASB issued Statement No. 51, Accounting and Financial Reporting for
Intangible Assets. This Statement requires that all intangible assets not specifically excluded by
the scope provisions be classified as capital assets. The Authority is required to adopt GASB
Statement No. 51 for its 2011 financial statements. The implementation of this Statement is not
expected to have a significant impact on the financial position of the Authority.
22
Suffolk County Water Authority
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
2. Capital Assets
Capital Assets, not being
depreciated
Land and land rights $
Construction in progress
Total Capital Assets, not being
depreciated
Capital Assets, being depreciated
Pumping and Purification
Equipment
Distribution Systems
Wells, reservoirs and s~uctures
Total Capital Assets, being
depreciated
Less accmnulated depreciation
Capital Assets, net $
May
31, 2008
Additions/ Deletions/
Reclassifications Reclassifications
(In Thousands)
21,582 $ 26 $
94,353 79,542 (53,056)
May
31, 2009
$ 21,608
120,839
115,935 79,568 (53,056) 142,447
101,695 1,377 (53)
771,256 19,639 (1,163)
217,039 4,505 (61)
146,344 36,559 (33,952)
1 r236,334 62,080 (35,229)
(377,011) (36,552) 5,585
975,258 $ 105,096 $ /82,700)
103,019
789,732
221,483
148,951
1~263y185
(407,978)
$ 997,654
23
Suffolk County Water Authority
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
2. Capital Assets (continued)
May Additions/ Deletions/ May
31~ 2007 Reclassifications Reclassifications 31, 2008
(In Thousands)
Capital Assets, not being
depreciated
Land and land fights
Construction in progress
Total Capital Assets, not being
depreciated
Capital Assets. being depreciated
Pumping and Purification
Equipment
Distribution Systems
Wells, reservoirs and structures
Total Capital Assets, being
depreciated
Less accumulated depreciation
Capital Assets, net
21,357 $ 731 $ (506) $ 21,582
135,467 128,935 (170,049) 94,353
156,824 129,666 (170,555) 115,935
95,141 11,532 (4,978) 101,695
725,444 85~79 (39,667) 771,256
205,358 23,386 (11,705) 217,039
115,267 96,031 (64,954) 146,344
1,141~210 216,428 (121~304) 1,236,334
(347,010) (34,732) 47731 (377,01 I)
$ 951,024 $ 311,362 $ t287,128) $ 975,258
Depreciation expense amounted to approximately $35,618,000 and $34,186,000 for the years
ended May 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively, based on a composite annual rate of 2.84%.
3. Cash and Cash Equivalents and Investments
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash consists of insured (FDIC) or collateralized deposits which have carrying values of
approximately $28,066,000 and $2,501,000 and bank balances of approximately $29,724,000
and $4,159,00 at May 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively. Collateral for deposits is held by the bank
in the name of the Authority.
24
Suffolk County Water Authority
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
3. Cash and Cash Equivalents and Investments (continued)
Investments
Investments at May 31, 2009 and 2008 consist of the following:
Fair Value
2009 2008
Investment Maturities
at May 31, 2009 in Years
Less Greater
than 1 1 to $ Than 5
Certificates of deposit $ 128,300 $ 75,600 $ 128,300 $ $ -
U.S. Treasmy bills {a~ 177 - -
U.S. Treasury notes (a) 510 2,035 510 - -
U.S. Treasury bonds (~) 8,794 8,794 - - 8,794
FNMAs (a) 20,064 34,380 18,025 2,039 -
FHLB Notes (a) 27,419 39,579 24,400 3,019 -
FHLMC Notes 12,332 10,060 1,195 11,137 -
FDIC Insured Notes 5,194 - - 5,194 -
FFCB Notes 28,614 3,053 507 28,107 -
Money market (a~ 507 424 507 - -
Guaranteed investment
contracts (a) 241 500 241 - -
Repurchase agreements 18,883 56,522 18,883 - -
Totalinvestments $ 250,858 $ 231,124 $ 192,568 $ 49,496 $ 8,794
(a) Includes approximately $48,082,000 and $54,394,000 of investments held by Fiscal Agent
in the Authority's name at May 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively.
2009 2008
(In Thousands)
Investment breakdown:
Restricted for:
Debt service $ 36,152 $ 36,694
Construction 11,930 64,663
Unrestricted 202,776 129,767
Total investments $ 250,858 $ 231,124
Accrued interest on investments other than investment agreements is included in interest and
other receivables on the balance sheets. Investments bear interest rates that range from 1.00% to
5.00%.
25
Suffolk County Water Authority
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
3. Cash and Cash Equivalents and Investments (continued)
The Authority's investment policy states that securities underlying repurchase agreements must
have a market value at least equal to the cost of the investment. All investments are either
insured or registered and held by the Authority or its agent in the Authority's name.
Investments include U.S. Treasury and its agencies, obligations, certificates of deposit,
guaranteed investment contracts and repurchase agreements backed by such obligations.
Investments are reported at fair value, except for investment agreements and certificates of
deposit. Investment agreements, which can take the form of open time deposits or fixed
repurchase agreements, are reported at an amount equal to principal and accrued interest.
Certificates of deposit are valued at cost.
In addition, the Authority invests in an external investment pool called New York CLASS. The
pool invests in obligations permissible under the Authority's investment policies. The fair value
of the position of the pool is equal to the value of the pool shares. The value of this investment is
reported as repurchase agreements in the table above.
Interest Rate Risk: The Authority's investment policy does not include limits on investment
maturities as a means of managing its exposure to fair value losses arising from increasing
interest rates.
Credit Risk: It is the Authority's policy to limit its investments in debt securities to those rated in
the highest rating category by at least two nationally recognized bond rating agencies. As of
May 31, 2009, the Authority's investments in obligations of the Federal National Mortgage
Association, the Federal Home Loan Bank, FDIC insured notes, the Federal Home Loan
Mortgage Corporation, and FFCB notes were rated Aaa by Moody's Investors Service and AAA
by Standard & Poor's and Fitch Ratings.
Concentration of Credit Risk: The Authority places no limit on the amount the Authority may
invest in any one issuer. More than 5% of the Authority's investments are in obligations of the
Federal National Mortgage Association, the Federal Home Loan Bank and the Federal Farm
Credit Bank. These investments are 8% ($20,064,000), 11% ($27,419,000) and 11%
($28,614,000), respectively, of the Authority's total investments.
26
Suffolk County Water Authority
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
4. Bonds Payable
Outstanding bonds are summarized as follows:
Final
Interest Maturity May
Rate Date 31,2008
Water System Revenue Bonds
(a) 1993 Senior Lien 4.80-5.10% 2013 $ 15,150
(a) 1993 Subordinate Lien 4.80-5.10% 2013 13,925
(a) 1994 Subordinate Lien 4.13-6.00% 2017 4,910
(a) 1997 Senior Lien 4.10-5.25% 2012 2,840
(a) 1997A Senior Lien 4.6O-5.00% 2022 11,230
(b) 200lA Senior Lien 4,13-5.25% 2023 21,925
(a) 2003 Senior Lien 2.004.50% 2017 57,210
(a) 2003C Senior Lien 4.00-4.50% 2026 80,000
(a) 2005C Senior Lien 4.50-5.00% 2029 60,000
(b) 2005 Subordinate Lien 4.37-4.55% 2027 71,905
(a) 2006A Senior Lien 3.59-4.95% 2031 70,000
(a) 26O7A Senior Lien 4.00-4,50% 2032 45,000
issued
Matured/ May Due within
Refunded 31, 2009 one Year
(in thousands of dollars)
$ $ (6,740)
(60)
(585)
8,410 $ 5,410
13,865 65
4,910
11,230
21,925
56,625 6O0
6O,OOO
71,905
70,0OO
45,000
Environmental Facilities Corporation
Revenue Bonds
(b) 1998B 3,65-5.20O/O 2017 3,695 -
(b) 1999A 2.774.91% 2018 3,655
(b) 206OA 3.80-5.96% 2019 615
(b) 26O0B 4.31-5.74% 2020 4,075 -
(b) 200lA 3.48-5.17% 2021 7,690 -
0o) 200lB 2.624.15% 2021 13,090 -
(b) 2002A 1.36-5.00% 2022 8,270 -
(b) 2002B 1.33-5.12% 2022 6,780 -
(b) 2003B 0.72-4.50% 2023 7,295 -
(b) 2004A 1.20-4.96% 2024 5,825 -
(b) 26O5B 2.08-4.02% 2026 6~338 -
Total bonds outstanffmg 521,423
Less: Unamor tized discount (premium) (1,003)
Defened amount 4,827
Current maimfies payable 10,968
$ 506,631
(290) 3,405 295
(240) 3,415 245
(35) 580 35
(210) 3,865 220
(435) 7,255 455
(710) 1Z380 730
(445) 7,825 455
(340) 6,440 350
(370) 6,925 370
(250) 5,575 250
(258) 6,080 275
510,455 $ 9,755
4,2~t
9~7~
27
Suffolk County Water Authority
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
4. Bonds Payable (continued)
Series
Interest
Rate
Final
Maturity May Matured/ May Due within
Date 31, 2007 Issued Refunded 31~ 2008 one Year
Water System Revenue Bonds
(a) 1993 Senior Lien
(a) 1993 Subordinate Lien
(a) 1994 Subordinate Lien
(a) 1997 Senior Lien
(a) 1997A Senior Lien
(b) 200lA Seninr Lien
(a) 2003 Senior Lien
(a) 2003C Senior Lien
(a) 2005C Senior Lien
(b) 2005 Subordinate Lien
(a) 2006A Senior Lien
(a) 2007A Senior Lien
4.80-5.10%
4.80-5.10%
4.13-6.00%
4.10-5.25%
4.00-5.00%
4.13-5.25%
2.004.50%
4.004.50%
4.50-5.00%
4.374.55%
3.59-4.95%
4.004.50°/0
Environmental Fadlifies Corporation
Revenue Bonds
(b) 1998B
(b) 1999A
(b) 20~0A
(b) 2000B
(b) 200lA
(b) 200lB
Co) 2002A
(b) 2002B
(b) 2003B
(b) 2004A
(b) 2005B
3.65-5.20O/0
2.77-4.91%
3.80-5.96%
4.31-5.74%
3.48-5.17%
2.62-5.15%
1.36-5.00O/0
1.33-5.12%
0.724.50OA
1.20-4.96%
2.08-4.02%
thousands of ddlars)
2013 $ 21,670 $ $ (6,520) $ 15,150 $ 6,740
2013 13,985 (60) 13,925 60
2017 4,910 4,910
2012 2,840 - 2,840
2022 11,230 - 11230
2023 21,925 - 21,925
2017 57,780 (570) 57,210 585
2026 80,000 80,000 -
2029 60,000 60,000 -
2027 71,905 - 71,905 -
2031 70,000 - 70,000
2032 45,000 - 45,000
2017 3,980 (285) 3,695 290
2018 3,890 (235) 3,655 240
2019 650 (35) 615 35
2020 4~280 (205) 4,075 210
2021 8,120 (430) 7,690 435
2021 13,775 (685) 13,090 710
2022 8,715 (445) 8,270 445
2022 7.115 (335) 6,780 340
2023 7,665 (370) 7,295 370
2024 6,043 (218) 5,825 250
2026 6,597 (259) 6,338 258
Total bonds outstanding 487,075
Less: U namor tized discount (preminm) (1,737)
Deferred amount 5,449
Current maturities payable 10,652
$ 472,711 $
521,423 $ 10,968
(1,003)
4,827
10,%8
506,631
(a) The payment of principal and interest is insured by a municipal bond insurance policy issued by MBIA Corporation or
AMBAC Indemnity Corporation.
(b) The payment of principal and interest is assured by a minimum debt service fund balance maintained by the Authority.
28
Suffolk County Water Authority
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
4. Bonds Payable (continued)
Water System Revenue Bonds
The Water System Revenue Bonds are issued to finance the cost of acquisition and construction
of improvements and additions to the water system. The Senior Lien Water System Revenue
Bonds are payable solely from net revenues of the Authority's water system. The Water System
Subordinate Revenue Bonds are payable solely from net revenues available after payment of
debt service on Senior Lien Revenue Bonds issued by the Authority.
The Authority did not issue any additional Water System Revenue Bonds during the fiscal year
ended May 31, 2009.
During fiscal year ended May 31, 2008, the Authority entered into the following bond
transactions:
In December 2007, the Authority issued $45,000,000 Senior Lien Water System Revenue
Bonds, Series 2007A to refund all outstanding Variable Rate Bond Anticipation Notes, 2003
in the amount of $41,900,000 due January 1, 2008. The Series 2007A bonds bear interest at
rates ranging from 4.0% to 4.5% and have a final maturity date of June 1, 2032.
In January 2008, the Authority issued $70,000,000 of Variable Rate Bond Anticipation
Notes, 2008. The proceeds are to be used to finance the cost of acquisition and construction
of improvements and additions to the water system. The notes mature on January 15, 2013,
and are expected to be periodically remarketed to bear interest based on the minimum interest
rate that, under prevailing financial conditions, enables the notes to be sold at par, subject to
the applicable effective interest rate period.
In March 2008, the Authority remarketed the outstanding $70,000,000 Senior Lien Water
System Variable Rate Revenue Bonds, Series 2006A. This remarketing memorandum was
prepared for the purpose of converting the Auction Rate to a Long-Term Interest Rate. The
Series 2006A bonds bear interest at a rate of 4.95% and have a final maturity date of June 1,
2031.
29
Suffolk County Water Authority
Notes to Financial Statemems (continued)
4. Bonds Payable (continued)
Environmental Facilities Corporation Revenue Bonds ("EFC Revenue Bonds")
The State of New York has established a State Drinking Water Program, which includes a state
drinking water revolving fund (the "Revolving Fund") to be used for purposes of the Safe Drinking
Water Act. The New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation (the "Corporation") is
responsible for administering the Revolving Fund and providing financial assistance from the
Revolving Fund. The Corporation issues bonds, the proceeds of which are used to fund the
Revolving Fund which then provides loans to the private water companies, political subdivisions and
public benefit corporations of the State of New York. The Authority has been issued a portion of the
total bond proceeds in the amounts stated in the table above to finance safe drinking water projects.
The Authority did not issue additional Water System Revenue Bonds through the Corporation during
the fiscal years ended May 31, 2009 and 2008.
In prior years, the Authority defeased certain debt obligations by placing the proceeds of new bonds
and its own funds in an irrevocable trust to provide for all future debt service payments on the old
bonds. Accordingly, the trust account assets and the liability for the defeased bonds are not included
in the Authority's financial statements. At May 31, 2009, the amount of defeased debt obligation
outstanding amounts to $140,039,800.
Interest expense on the bonds outstanding was approximately $22,591,000 and $20,561,000 for the
years ended May 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively.
Bond maturities payable, including mandatory sinking fund redemptions, over the next five fiscal
years and thereafter are as follows:
Principal Interest Total
(Info.an&)
Fiscalyearending:
2010 $ 9,755 $ 23,221 $ 32,976
2011 11,525 22,695 34,220
2012 11,630 22,160 33,790
2013 13,275 21,646 34,921
2014 13,795 21,093 34,888
2015-2019 85,515 94,492 180,007
2020-2024 101,730 72,049 173,779
2025-2029 132,170 44,028 176,198
2030-2032 131,060 9,638 140,698
$ 510,455 $ 331,022 $ 841,477
30
Suffolk County Water Authority
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
5. Debt Service Requirements
As prescribed in the Authority's Resolution, the Authority is required to maintain a Reserve
Account for each Series of Bonds to be held in the custody of the Bond Fund Trustee in an
amount equal to the lesser of (1) 10% of the proceeds of the particular bond issue, (2) the
maximum debt service due on the particular bond issue, or (3) 125% of the average of the annual
installments of Debt Service with respect to all current and future years of the particular bond
issue. The resolution permits the Authority to deposit a letter of credit, surety agreement,
insurance agreement or other type of agreement or arrangement with an entity whose obligations
are rated in one of the two highest rating categories by Standard and Poor's Ratings Services or
Moody's Investors Service in order to satisfy the Reserve Account requirements. The Authority
has elected to maintain bond insurance on the Senior Lien Water System Revenue Bonds Series
1993, 1997, 1997A, 2003, 2003C, 2005C, 2006A and 2007A and Subordinate Lien Water
System Revenue Bonds Series 1993 and 1994 for the payment of principal and interest on stated
maturity and sinking fund installment dates and in the event of default by the Authority. For the
Senior Lien Water System Revenue Bonds Series 200lA, 2005 Refunding and EFC Revenue
Bonds Series 1998B, 1999A, 2000A, 2000B, 200lA, 200lB, 2002A, 2002B, 2003B, 2004A and
2005B Bonds, the Authority elected to maintain a minimum debt service balance of 10% of the
proceeds. At May 31, 2009, the debt service reserve held funds that amounted to approximately
$19,520,000.
Revenue before interest expense and depreciation and amortization was equivalent to 3.95 times
(2.19 in 2008) the debt service requirement for the year ended May 31, 2009. The minimum debt
service requirement on all bonds is 1.10.
6. Notes Payable
Outstanding bond anticipation notes ("BANS") payable are summarized as follows:
Final Balance at Balance at
Maturity May May Due Within
Series Date 31, 2008 Issued Redeemed 31, 2009 One Year
(In Thousands)
2004 12/01/09 $ 60,000 $ - $ - $ 60,000 $ 60,000
2008 01/15/13 70,000 - - 70,000 -
Total notes outstanding $130,000 $ - $ - $130,000 $ 60,000
31
Suffolk County Water Authority
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
6. Notes Payable (continued)
Final Balance at Balance at
Maturity May May Due Within
Series Date 31, 2007 Issued Redeemed 31, 2008 One Year
(In Thousands)
2003 01/01/08 $ 41,900 $ - $(41,900) $ - $ -
2004 12/01/09 60,000 - - 60,000 -
2008 01/15/13 - 70,000 - 70,000 -
Total notes outstanding $ 101,900 $ 70,000 $(41,900) $ 130,000 $ -
These notes are issued in anticipation of the issuance of long-term revenue bonds or replacement
BANS, the proceeds of which will be used to repay the notes payable. The notes were issued to
fund construction activities.
These notes are periodically remarketed and, therefore, interest on these notes is based on the
minimum interest rate that, under prevailing financial market conditions, enables the notes to be
sold at par, subject to the applicable effective interest rate period. The effective interest rate
period may be daily, weekly, monthly, or semiannually. Interest is payable periodically, based
upon the effective interest rate period, through December 1, 2009, and January 15, 2013, the date
of principal maturity, for the 2004 and 2008 notes, respectively.
For the years ended May 31, 2009 and 2008, the effective interest rate was 1.01% and 2.69%,
respectively.
Interest expense on the BANS was approximately $1,593,000 and $3,119,000 for the years
ended May 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively.
7. Pension Plan
The Authority's employees are eligible to participate in the New York State and Local
Employees' Retirement System, which is a cost-sharing, multiemployer, public employee
retirement system. The benefits provided to members of this retirement system are established by
New York State law and may be amended only by the State Legislature. The New York State
and Local Employees' Retirement System issues a publicly available financial report. The report
may be obtained from the New York State and Local Retirement System, Gov. Smith State
Office Building, Albany, New York 12244. Benefit provisions vary as follows:
32
Suffolk County Water Authority
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
7. Pension Plan (continued)
The Employees' Retirement System is subdivided into the following four classes:
Tier I
Tier II
Tier III
Tier IV
Members who last joined prior to July 1, 1973
Members who last joined on or after July 1, 1973 and
prior to July 27, 1976
Members who last joined on or after July 27, 1976 and
prior to September 1, 1983
Members who joined on or after September 1, 1983
Tier I members are eligible for retirement at age 55. If members retire with 20 or more years of total
service, the service retirement benefit is 2% of the final average salary for each year of service. If
members retire with less than 20 years of total service, the service retirement benefit is 1.66% of the
final average salary for each year of service.
Tier II members are eligible to retire with full benefits at age 62, and with reduced benefits for
retirement between ages 55 and 62. Retirement benefits are equivalent to Tier I members.
Tier III members with five or more years of credited service after July 1, 1973 are eligible to retire
with full benefits at age 62 or at age 55 with 30 years of service and with reduced benefits for
retirement between ages 55 and 62 with less than 30 years of service. Benefits are integrated
with Social Security beginning at age 62. If members retire at age 62 and have 25 or more years of
credited service, the service retirement benefit will be 2% of final average salary for each year of
service (not to exceed 30 years), plus 1.5% of the final average salary for each year of credited
service beyond 30 years. If members retire at age 62 with fewer than 25 years of credited service, the
service retirement benefit will be 1.66% of the final average salary for each year of service.
Tier IV members with five or more years of credited service are eligible to retire with full benefits at
age 62 or at age 55 with 30 years of service and with reduced benefits for retirement between ages 55
and 62 with less than 30 years of service. Benefits are equivalent to Tier III members.
Retirement benefits vest after five years of credited service and are payable at age 55 or greater. The
Employees' Retirement System also provides death and disability benefits.
Tier I and II members are eligible to receive one month service credit for each year of service at
retirement, with a maximum of 24 months.
33
Suffolk County Water Authority
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
7. Pension Plan (continued)
Tier II, III and IV members will be able to purchase previous service credit (cont'muous service rules
no longer apply), with member having at least two years of service to have previous service
creditable.
Tier III and IV members are required by law to contribute 3% of their annual salary to the
Employees' Retirement System (3% contribution ceases after ten years of membership or ten years
of credited service), and eligible Tier I and II members may make contributions under certain
conditions. The Authority is required by the same statute to contribute the remaining amounts
necessary to pay benefits when due.
After five years in the retirement system, veterans will be able to purchase up to three years of
military service credit, at a cost of 3% of their last year's salary, for each year of credit acquired. A
member is required to have been on active duty for at least one day during the following eligible
periods:
World War II
Korean War
Vietnam Era
(12/7/41 - 12/31/46)
(6/27/50- 1/31/55)
(2/28/61 - 5/7/75)
Pension expense contractually required by New York State and recorded in the Authority's accounts
was $2,052,797, $2,499,226 and $2,493,415 for the years ended May 31, 2009, 2008 and 2007,
respectively. The Authority has recorded an accmed retirement contribution liability for certain
pensions costs of employees related to construction work in progress which have been capitalized to
water plant. The Authority capitalized $879,770, $1,071,097 and $1,066,946 for the years ended
May 31, 2009, 2008, and 2007 respectively.
8. Deferred Compensation
All Authority employees may participate in a deferred compensation program designated as an
Internal Revenue Code Section 457 plan. This program enables employees to contribute a portion of
their salary, on a tax deferred basis, to group variable annuity contracts. The assets and related
liabilities of the plan are excluded from the Authofity's balance sheets. The Authority has no
obligation to make contributions to the deferred compensation program. The Authority remits
deferred compensation amounts withheld from employees' salaries to an outside fiduciary agent who
administers the program and invests program assets as instructed by each of the participants. Assets
in such program amounted to approximately $25,768,000 and $28,522,000 at May 31, 2009 and
2008, respectively.
34
Suffolk County Water Authority
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
9. Postemployment Benefits Other Than Pensions
The Authority sponsors a single employer health care plan that provides postemployment
medical and dental benefits for eligible retirees and their spouses through the New York State
Health Insurance Plan. Substantially all of the Authority's employees may become eligible for these
benefits if they reach normal retirement age while working for the Authority. The Authority does
not issue a publicly available financial report for the plan.
Benefit provisions for the plan are established and amended through the Authority's Board of
Directors, and there is no statutory requirement for the Authority to continue this plan for future
Authority employees. The plan is a noncontributory plan, with all payments for plan benefits
being funded by the Authority. During 2009, there were 904 participants that were eligible to
receive benefits.
In June 2004, the GASB issued Statement No. 45. The Statement establishes guidance for the
financial report'mg of OPEB cost over a period that approximates employees' years of service and
providing information about acmarially calculated liabilities associated with OPEB and whether and
to what extent progress is being made in funding the plan. The Authority adopted this new standard
effective June 1, 2008.
In accordance with this standard, the Authority's annual OPEB cost for the plan is calculated
based on the ARC, an amount actuarially determined in accordance with the parameters of
GASB Statement No. 45. The ARC represents a level of funding that, if paid on an ongoing
basis, is projected to cover normal cost each year and to amortize any unfunded actuarial
liabilities (or funding excess) over a period not to exceed 30 years.
The following table shows the components of the Authority's annual OPEB cost for the year, the
amount contributed to the plan, and changes in the Authority's net OPEB obligation for the years
ended May 31, 2009 and 2008 (in thousands):
2009 2008
$ 15,204 $ 15,204
479 -
Annual required contribution
Interest on net OPEB obligation
Annual OPEB cost (expense)
Contributions made
Increase in net OPEB obligation
Net OPEB obligation, beginning of year
Net OPEB obligation, end of year
15,683 15,204
(3,362) (3,232)
12~21 11,972
11,972 -
$ 24,293 $ 11,972
35
Suffolk County Water Authority
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
9. Postemployment Benefits Other Than Pensions (continued)
The Authority's annual OPEB cost, the percentage of annual OPEB cost contributed to the plan,
and the net OPEB obligation were as follows (dollars in thousands):
Percentage of
Fiscal Year Annual OPEB Annual OPEB Cost Net OPEB
Ended Cost Contributed Obligation
May31, 2009 $15,683 21.4% $24,293
May31, 2008 $15,204 21.3% $11,972
As of May 31, 2007, the actuarial accrued liability for benefits was $166,487,365, all of which
was unfunded. As of May 31, 2008, the covered payroll (annual payroll of active employees
covered by the plan) was $36,035,914, and the ratio of the unfunded actuarial accrued liability to
the covered payroll was 462%.
The actuarial valuation date is May 31, 2007. Actuarial valuations involve estimates of the value
of reported amounts and assumptions about the probability of events in the future. Amounts
determined regarding the funded status of the plan and the ARCs of the employer are subject to
continual revision as actual results are compared to past expectations and new estimates are
made about the future. The required schedule of funding progress presented as required
supplemental information provides multiyear trend information that shows whether the actuarial
value of plan assets is increasing or decreasing over time relative to the actuarial accrued liability
for benefits.
Projections of benefits are based on the substantive plan (the plan as understood by the employer
and plan members) and include the types of benefits in force at the valuation date and the pattern
of sharing benefit costs between the Authority and the plan members to that point. Actuarial
calculations reflect a long-term perspective and employ methods and assumptions that are
designed to reduce short-term volatility in actuarial accrued liabilities and the actuarial value of
assets.
For the May 31, 2007 actuarial valuation, the projected unit credit actuarial cost method was
used. The actuarial assumptions included a 4% discount rate and an annual health care cost trend
rate of 10.5% medical and 6.5% dental and grading down to an ultimate rate of 5%. The
unfunded actuarial accrued liability is being amortized over 30 years as a level percentage of
projected payroll on an open basis. The remaining amortization period at May 31, 2009 was 28
years.
36
Suffolk County Water Authority
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
10. Commitments and Contingencies
Operating Leases
As of May 31, 2009, the Authority is obligated under several operating leases with various lease
terms through 2014, for telephone, copiers and mail machine (in thousands):
Year endingMay31:
2010 $ 297
2011 286
2012 161
2013 109
2014 14
Renml expense for operating leases was approxim~e~ $374,000and $410,000forthe years
ended May31, 2009 and 2008, respectively.
Legal
The Authority is involved in various litigation resulting from the ordinary course of business. In
the opinion of management, and based on advice of legal counsel, the ultimate liability, if any, to
the Authority will not have a material effect on the Authority's financial position and changes in
net assets.
Risk Management
The Authority is exposed to various risks of loss related to automobiles and general liability. The
Authority is partially self-insured for up to a maximum of $500,000 for each general liability
claim and $500,000 for each automobile claim subject to a stop loss aggregate of $1,507,000.
The Authority purchases commercial insurance for claims in excess of this self-insured retention
limit to cover various other risks of loss. Settled claims have not exceeded this commercial
coverage in any of the past three fiscal years. The Authority is covered through the New York
State Plan for workers' compensation; however, the Authority has recorded a liability related to
workers' compensation for the period of time when the Authority purchased loss sensitive
insurance policies. A loss sensitive policy requires the insured to pay that portion of the premium
that is in excess of a minimum premium. It is also subject to a maximum premium.
37
Suffolk County Water Authority
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
10. Commitments and Contingencies (continued)
The Authority has established a liability based on actuarial estimates of the amounts needed to
pay prior year and current year claims and to establish a reserve for catastrophic losses. That
liability which is for workers' compensation, general and automobile claims was $2,750,139 and
$3,441,533 at May 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively, and is based on the requirements of GASB
Statement No. 10, Accounting and Financial Reporting for Risk Financing and Related
Insurance Issues, which requires that a liability for claims be reported if information prior to the
issuance of the financial statements indicates that it is probable that a liability has been incurred
at the date of the financial statements and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated.
Changes in the Authority's workers' compensation clahns liability amount in fiscal 2009 and
2008 were:
Year Ended May 31
2009 2008
Unpaid claims, beginning of fiscal year
Changes in the estimate for claims of all years
Retroactive payments
Unpaid claims, end of fiscal year
$ 1,060,270 $ 826,308
(325,036) 855,169
(270,822) (621,207)
$ 464,412 $1,060,270
Changes in the Authority's general and automobile claims liability amount in fiscal 2009 and
2008 were:
Year Ended May 31
2009 2008
Unpaid claims, beginning of fiscal year
Changes in the esfunate for claims of all years
Claim payments
Unpaid claims, end of fiscal year
$ 2,381,263 $ 2,186,947
182,369 632,010
(277,905) (437,694)
$ 2,285,727 $ 2,381,263
The Authority has included the above amounts under the caption, "Other accrued liabilities," in
the balance sheets.
38
Suffolk County Water Authority
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)
11. Net Assets
The Authority's net assets represent the excess of assets over liabilities and are categorized as
follows:
· Invested in Capital Assets are the amounts expended by the Authority for the acquisition
of capital assets, net of accumulated depreciation and related debt.
Restricted Net Assets are the net assets that have been restricted for use through external
constraints imposed by creditors (such as through debt covenants), grantors, contributors,
or laws or regulations of other governments or constraints imposed by law through
constitutional provisions or enabling legislation.
Unrestricted Net Assets are the remaining net assets, which can be further categorized as
designated or undesignated. Designated assets are not governed by statute or contract but
are committed for specific purposes pursuant to Authority policy and/or Board directives.
Designated assets include funds and assets committed to working capital.
Changes in Net Assets
The changes in net assets are as follows:
Invested
in Capital
Assets
Unrestricted Restricted Total
(In Thousands)
Net assets at May 31, 2007 $ 389,527 $ 132,111 $ 33,923 $ 555,561
Income - 15,165 - 15,165
Transfers (8,962) 6,191 2,771 -
Net assets at May 31, 2008 380,565 153,467 36,694 570,726
Income - 76,003 - 76,003
Transfers (18,774) 19,316 (542) -
Net assets at May 31, 2009 $ 361,791 $ 248,786 $ 36,152 $ 646,729
39
Required Supplemental Information
Suffolk County Water Authority
Schedule of Funding Progress for the
Retiree Healthcare Plan
(Dollars in Thousands)
Actuarial
Actuarial Value
Valuation of Assets
Date (a)
Actuarial
Accrued
Liability
(AAL) - Level Unfunded Funded Covered
Dollar AAL (UAAL) Ratio Payroll
(b) (b-a) (a/b) (c)
May 31, 2007 $ -
UAAL as a
Percentage
of Covered
Payroll
(~-a)/c
$166,487 $166,487 0% $36,036 462%
40
Ernst & Young LLP
Five Times Square
New York, NY 10036-6530
Tel: +1 212 773 3000
Fax: +i 212 773 6350
www.ey.com
Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting and on Compliance
and Other Matters Based on an Audit of the Financial Statements
Performed in Accordance with Government Auditing Standards
To the Members of
Suffolk County Water Authority
We have audited the financial statements of the Suffolk County Water Authority (the "Authority")
as of and for the year ended May 31, 2009, and have issued our report thereon dated
August 31, 2009. We conducted our audit in accordance with auditing standards generally
accepted in the United States and the standards applicable to financial audits contained in
Government Auditing Standards, issued by the Comptroller General of the United States.
Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
In planning and performing our audit, we considered the Authority's intemal control over
financial reporting as a basis for designing our auditing procedures for the purpose of expressing
our opinion on the financial statements, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the
effectiveness of the Authority's internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we do not
express an opinion on the effectiveness of the Authority's internal control over financial
reporting.
A control deficiency exists when the design or operation of a control does not allow management
or employees, in the normal course of performing their assigned ftmctions, to prevent or detect
misstatements on a timely basis. A significant deficiency is a control deficiency, or combination
of control deficiencies, that adversely affects the entity's ability to initiate, authorize, record,
process, or report financial data reliably in accordance with generally accepted accounting
principles such that there is more than a remote likelihood that a misstatement of the entity's
financial statements that is more than inconsequential will not be prevented or detected by the
entity's internal control.
A material weakness is a significant deficiency, or combination of significant deficiencies, that
results in more than a remote likelihood that a material misstatement of the financial statements
will not be prevented or detected by the entity's internal control.
Our consideration of internal control over financial reporting was for the limited purpose
described in the first paragraph of this section and would not necessarily identify all deficiencies
in internal control that might be significant deficiencies or material weaknesses. We did not
identify any deficiencies in internal control over financial reporting that we consider to be
material weaknesses, as defined above.
41
Compliance and Other Matters
As part of obtaining reasonable assurance about whether the Authority's financial statements are
free of material misstatement, we performed tests of its compliance with certain provisions of
laws, regulations, contracts, and grant agreements, noncompliance with which could have a
direct and material effect on the determination of financial statement amounts. However,
providing an opinion on compliance with those provisions was not an objective of our audit and,
accordingly, we do not express such an opinion. The results of our tests disclosed no instances of
noncompliance or other matters that are required to be reported under Government Auditing
Standards.
This report is intended solely for the information and use of management, Members of the
Suffolk County Water Authority, and others within the entity and is not intended to be and should
not be used by anyone other than these specified parties.
August 31, 2009
42
Comprehensive Water Resources
Management Plan for Suffolk
Contents
Section 1
Section 2
2.1
2.2
2.3
Section 3
3.1
3.2
Section 4
4.1
4.2
Section 5
5.1
5.2
Section 6
6.1
6.2
6.3
Section 7
Introduction ...................................................................................................... 1
Monitoring Programs ...................................................................................... 1
Federal Requirements ................................................................................................. 2
State Requirements ...................................................................................................... 3
Suffolk County Monitoring Programs ...................................................................... 4
2.3.1 Community Supply Wells ............................................................................... 5
2.3.2 Non-Community Supply Wells .................................................................... 11
2.3.3 Private Wells .................................................................................................... 16
2.3.4 Monitoring Wells ............................................................................................ 17
2.3.5 Special Programs ............................................................................................. 18
Public and Environmental Health Laboratory ......................................... 19
Overview ................................................................................................................... 19
Challenges .................................................................................................................. 21
Water Quality ................................................................................................. 22
Summary of Water Quality Trends ......................................................................... 22
4.1.1 Nitrates ........................................................................................................ 22
4.1.2 Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) ..................................................... 23
4.1.3 Perchlorate ................................................................................................... 23
4.1.4 Pesticides ...................................................................................................... 23
4.1.5 Overview ..................................................................................................... 24
Emerging Contaminants ........................................................................................... 25
Monitoring Needs .......................................................................................... 30
National Perspective ................................................................................................. 30
Local Perspective ....................................................................................................... 31
5.2.1 Contaminants of Potential Concern .......................................................... 32
Conclusions and Recommendations .......................................................... 40
Parameters of Concern .............................................................................................. 41
Laboratory Staffing .................................................................................................... 42
Additional Field Equipment and Staffing .............................................................. 42
References ........................................................................................................ 43
Figures
I Number of Contaminants Regulated by USEPA since 1976 ........................................ 2
2 Suffolk County Department of Health Services Water Analyses .............................. 12
PAGE i
List of Tables
Tables
I Minimum Sampling Requirements for Community and Non-community Water
Supplies ............................................................................................................................... 6
2 Non-community System Self-Monitoring Requirements ........................................... 11
3 Final Drinking Water Contaminant Candidate List 3 (CCL 3) .................................. 26
PAGE ii
Memorandum
To: Martin Trent
From: CDM
Date: January 7, 2010, revised February 4, 2010
Subject: Task 7. 2 - Drinking Water Monitoring Programs
1.0 Introduction
Suffolk County's drinking water supply is monitored in accordance with federal, state and
Suffolk County requirements by the public water suppliers, with oversight and compliance
monitoring conducted by the Suffolk County Department of Health Services (SCDHS).
SCDHS monitoring includes many non-regulated contaminants such as pesticide and
pharmaceutical compounds. While the water supphers monitor the drinking water, the
SCDHS also routinely monitors the groundwater resource that provides residents with their
potable supply, and potential contaminant sources including industrial and hazardous
wastes, sewage effluent and soils. Monitoring is conducted to ensure that the potable supply
meets the health-based standards estabhshed by the United States Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA) for 91 contaminants of concern, to characterize water quahty, to identify water
quahty trends, to identify treatment requirements (if any) and to identify potential new
concerns. Monitoring programs also help to determine whether water quality protection and
pollution prevention programs have been effective in maintaining safe and high quality
drinking water.
The purpose of this memorandum is to briefly describe the drinking water monitoring
programs in Suffolk County, to summarize laboratory capabilities and to identify general
water quality trends and emerging issues that will require increasing attention in the future.
2.0 Monitoring Programs
Suffolk County's public drinking water supplies are monitored in accordance with regulatory
requirements established by the EPA's Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA), and its
amendments, and Part 5 of the New York State Sanitary Code (10 NYCRR) "Drinking Water
Supplies" as described in more detail in the Task 7.1 memo entitled Drinking Water
Standards (CDM, 2009). SCDHS requires compliance with all New York State standards and
their oversight monitoring includes testing for many contaminants of potential concern that
do not currently have specific water quality standards. Samples must be collected at the
Mr. Martin Trent
January 7, 2010, revised February 4, 2010
Page 2
frequencies defined by EPA and analyzed by laboratories that are certified by EPA and/or
New York State, in accordance with approved analytical methods for each parameter.
In addition, SCDHS has implemented monitoring programs to assess the quality of
community supplies, non-community and private well sources and ambient groundwater as
described In more detail below.
2.1 Federal Requirements
The 1974 Safe Drinking Water Act provided EPA with the authority to establish federal
drinking water standards for contaminants with the potential to adversely affect human
health. The 1986 amendments to the Safe Drinking Water Act required EPA to regulate 83
contaminants in the first five years, and 25 new contaminants in every three year interval after
that. Today, 91 contaminants are regulated as described in more detail in the Task 7.1
memorandum.
100
7o
,~ 60
30 ]
~ 2o
Z 10
0
Figure 1 Number of Contaminants Regulated by USEPA since 1976
Source: Adapted from USEPA, 2001 data
Water suppliers are
required to monitor
for contaminants for
which EPA has
established national
primary drinking
water standards. The
EPA establishes
enforceable, health-
based standards by
determining the
concentration of each
contaminant in
drinking water below
which there is no
known or expected
health risk, the
Maximum
Contaminant Level
Goal (MCLG). These goals are not erfforceable levels, because they do not consider available
technology and hence cannot always be achieved by public water systems.
The MCLG is zero for microbial contaminants and for chemicals that have been classified as
carcinogenic. For non-carcinogenic constituents, the MCLG is calculated using the reference
Mr. Martin Trent
January 7, 2010, revised February 4, 2010
Page 3
dose, the amount of a particular chemical that a person may be exposed to on a daily basis
and not suffer any detrimental health effects over his or her lifetime (USEPA, 2006). After the
MCLG is determined, the EPA develops an MCL as close to the MCLG as is feasible, based
upon available treatment technologies and an economic analysis to assess whether the
benefits of the standard justify the cost. If not, the MCL may be modified for some systems to
a value that maximizes health benefits at a cost that justifies those benefits. The MCL may
also be adjusted by incorporation of additional safety factors that reduce the MCL to a lower
concentration. After the public has had an opportunity to review and comment upon the
proposed standard, EPA considers public input and other relevant information, and
establishes an enforceable MCL, including required testing and reporting schedules.
MCLs are legally enforceable standards. If a public water supply exceeds the standard for a
particular contaminant, corrective action must be taken (e.g., treatment provided), or in some
cases, the supply well is shut down.
States and Indian Tribes are given primary enforcement responsibility (e.g. primacy) for
public water systems in their state if they meet specific requirements defined by the EPA,
such as adoption of drirtking water standards that are at least as stringent as the National
Primary Drinking Water Standards. New York has been granted primacy for public water
systems located in the state.
2.2 State Requirements
The National Primary Drinking Water Standards were incorporated into Part 5 of the New
York State Sanitary Code (10 NYCRR), "Drinking Water Supplies." in some cases, the New
York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) has modified Part 5 based on its own evaluation
of potential health impacts, resulting in state standards that are more protective than, and
include more contaminants than, the federal MCLs. For example, in 1989, Part 5 was revised
to establish MCLs for almost all of the most common volatile organic chemicals (termed
Principal Organic ContamLrmnts or POCs) at 5.0 micrograms per liter (gg/L). POCs include
those organic compounds found in the following groups, except for those contaminants for
which specific MCLs have already been developed:
· Halogenated Alkanes;
· Halogenated Ethers;
· Halobenzenes and Substituted Halobenzenes;
· Benzene and Alkyl- or Nitrogen-Substituted Benzenes;
· Substituted, Unsaturated Hydrocarbons; and
Mr. Martin Trent
January 7, 2010, revised February 4, 2010
Page 4
· Halogenated Non-aromatic Cyclic Hydrocarbons.
New York State has also established a limit of 50 pg/L for unspecified organic contaminants
(UOCs), that is, any organic chemical that does not have a specific MCL or that is not
identified as a POC. On September 10, 2003, the NYSDOH established an MCL of 10 gg/L for
methyl tert butyl ether (MTBE), a concentration lower than the 20 to 40 pg/L range identified
in a 1997 EPA advisory.
While EPA does not require enforcement of secondary standards, New York State has chosen
to adopt and enforce secondary drinking water standards. Two differences between the
federal and New York State secondary standards have been identified; the manganese
standard established by New York State is 0.3 mg/L (rather than 0.05 mg/L) and New York
State no longer has a standard established for methylene blue active substances (MBAS)
(federal standard is 0.5 mg/L), which is of concern, given SCDHS recent detections of MBAS
in groundwater downgradient of laundromats.
New York State NYCRR10 Section 5-1.13 requires public water suppliers to collect raw, or
untreated, water samples at prescribed frequencies and to analyze for contaminants in
accordance with "Acceptable Methods for the Analyses of Contaminants in Water and Section
5.1.74. Public water systems which serve less than 25 persons, or have less than 15 service
connections are monitored at 'state discretion' which is defined as "monitoring when the
State has reason to believe an MCL, MRDL [maximum residual disinfection level], or
treatment technique requirement has been violated, the potential exists for an MCL, MRDL,
or treatment technique violation, or a contaminant may present a risk to public health."
2.3 Suffolk County Monitoring Programs
Article 4 of the Suffolk County Sanitary Code provides the authority for SCDHS to monitor
drinking and groundwater supplies. Article 4 requires that water quality samples be
collected and analyzed in accordance with the requirements included in the New York State
Sanitary Code, Subpart 5-1, as well as more frequent or additional analyses as may be
required by the SCDHS. SCDHS Division of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has a multi-tiered
monitoring program that includes the County's aquifer system or source water, community
and non-community supply wells, private wells as requested, or as part of special
investigations or programs, and targeted monitoring investigations.
The backbone of the SCDHS water quality monitoring program is the DEQ Public and
Environmental Health Laboratory (PEHL) which is more fully described in Section 3.0. The
PEHL has been proactive by continually updating and expanding its analytical capabilities
from the 1970s through the present time to meet new challenges and emerging contaminant
and public health issues, by developing and adopting new methodologies and analytical
techniques for:
Mr. Martin Trent
January 7, 2010, revised February 4, 2010
Page 5
· Volatile organic compounds in the 1970s;
· Pesticides in the 1980s;
· MTBE and perchlorate in the 1990s; and
· Pesticide metabolites, radiological parameters, pharmaceutical and personal
care products (PPCPs), and new bacterial indicator organisms in the 2000s.
Whereas the PEHL determined 36 bacteriological and chemical parameters in 1970, a routine
water quality analysis today includes 341 parameters.
2.3.~ Community Supply Wells
The SCDHS requires all public suppliers to monitor water quality by testing both raw or
source water, and water within distribution systems for regulated contaminants. The
required frequency of monitoring is summarized on Table 1. In general nitrates and volatile
organic compounds (VOCs) are tested at each well four times every year. However, if a
regulated contaminant is detected at a well or if there is an indication of contamination in the
vicinity of a well, more frequent monitoring may be required.
Suppliers generally send water samples to private, state-certified laboratories for analysis,
however the Suffolk County Water Authority (SCWA), which owns and operates over 90
percent of the community supply wells in Suffolk County, operates its own lab. As a result of
the analytical protocols required, many Suffolk County water suppliers - most notably the
SCWA - routinely analyze water samples for many more contaminants than those for which
MCLs have been established. In addition, the SCWA also routinely monitors for selected
contaminants on a much more frequent basis than the County requires (SCWA 2009 Drinking
Water Quality Report, personal communication, SCWA, January 2009) to further ensure that
only water meeting MCLs is delivered to customers. If there is a concern about potential
impacts to a public supply well, SCWA may test the well on a monthly, bi-monthly or weekly
basis (SCWA, www.scwa.com/residentiaI / yourdrinkingwater.chn).
While the SCWA laboratory routinely analyzes for 276 analytes, many more parameters than
required by the EPA, smaller suppliers may test for fewer constituents; e.g., the Riverhead
water district tests for 135 parameters. Oversight monitoring conducted by the SCDHS
includes 341 parameters.
SCDHS collects samples at all public water systems to verify supplier self-monitoring results
and to test for dozens of other potential chemical contaminants for which no MCLs have been
established, e.g. pharmaceuticals and pesticides. Although there is no federal or state
requirement for monitoring these additional chemicals, many of them have been identified in
Mr. MartinTrent
January 7,2010, revised February 4, 2010
Page 6
for
Table 1
Water Supplies
Metals
Inorganic Compounds
Group 1
Group 2
Group 3 [1]
Group 4
Lead and Copper
Arsenic
Barium
Cadmium
Chromium
Fluoride
Mercury
Selenium
Silver
Chloride
Color
Iron
Manganese
Odor
Sodium
Zinc
Antimony
Beryllium
Cyanide
Nickel
Sulfate
Thallium
Conductivity
Free Ammonia
Lead
MBAS
Nitrate/Nitrite
pH
TE
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q [2] *
Q
A
TEnt
TEnt
TEnt
TEnt
TEnt
TEnt
TEnt
TEnt
A
NR
A
A
NR
A
NR
TEnt
TEnt
TEnt
TEnt
TEnt
TEnt
NR
NR
A
NR
A*
A
Mr. Martin Trent
January 7, 2010, revised February 4, 2010
Page 7
Table 1 (continued)
Minimum Sampling Requirements for Community and Non-community Water Supplies
Principal Organic
Contaminants
Benzene
Bromobenzene
Bromochlorome~hane
Bromomethane
n-Butylbenzene
sec-Butylbenzene
tert-Butylbenzene
Carbon tetrachloride
Chlorobenzene
Chloroethane
Chloromethane
2-Chlorotoluene
4-Chlorotoluene
Dibromomethane
1,2 Dichlorobenzene
1,3 Dichlorobenzene
1,4 Dichlorobenzene
Dichlor odifluoromethane
1,1 Dichloroethane
1,2 Dichloroethane
1,1 Dichloroethene
cis-l,2 Dichloroethene
trans-l,2 Dichloroethene
1,2 Dichloropropane
1,3 Dichloropropane
2,2 Dichloropropane
1,1 Dichloropropene
cis-l,3 Dichloropropene
trans-l,3 Dichloropropene
Ethylbenzene
Hexachlorobutadiene
p-Isopropyltoluene
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Mr. Martin Trent
January 7, 2010, revised February 4, 2010
Page 8
Table 1 (continued)
Minimum Sampling Requirements for Community and Non-community Water Supplies
Principal Organic
Contaminants
(continued)
Secondary Organic
Contaminants
& Pesticides
Methylene chloride
n-Propylbenzene
Methyl tertiary butyl ether
Styrene
1,1,1,2 Tetrachloroethane
1,1,2,2 Tetrachloroethane
Tetrachloroethene
Toluene
1,2,3 Trichlorobenzene
1,2,4 Trichlorobenzene
1,1,1 Trichloroethane
Trichloroethene
Trichlorofluor omethane
1,2,3 Trichloropropane
1,2,4 Trimethylbenzene
1,3,5 Trimethylbenzene
Vinyl Chloride
m-Xylene
o-Xylene
p-Xylene
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Q
Aldicarb
Aldicarb Sulfoxide
Aldicarb Sulfone
Carbaryl
Carbofuran
3-Hydroxycarbofuran
Methomyl
Oxamyl
Alachlor
Aldrin
Chlordane
Dieldrin
Q [31
Q [31
Q [31
Q [31
Q[3]
Q [31
Q [3l
Q [3]
Q [3]
Q[3]
Q [3]
Q [31
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
Mr. MartinTrent
January Z2010, revised February 4, 2010
Page 9
Table l(continued)
Minimum Sampling Requirements for Community and Non-community Water Supplies
Secondary Organic
ContaminanN
&Pesticides
~onNnued)
Endrin Q [31
Heptachlor Q [3]
Heptachlor Epoxide Q [3]
Lindane Q [3]
Methoxychlor Q [3]
Dibromochloropropane Q [3]
Ethylene dibromide Q [3]
Atrazine Q
2,4-D Q
Polychlorinated biphenyls Q
Pentachlorophenol Q
Toxaphene Q
2,4,5-TP (silvex) Q
Benzo (a) pyrene Q
Butachlor Q
Dalapon Q
Di (2-ethylhexyl) adipate Q
Di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalates Q
Dicamba Q
Dinoseb Q
Diquat Q
Endothall Q
Glyphosate Q
Hexachlorobenzene Q
Hexachlorocyclopentadiene Q
Metolachlor Q
Metribuzin Q
Pichloram Q
Propachlor Q
Simazine Q
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
Mr. Martin Trent
January 7, 2010, revised February 4, 2010
Page 10
Table 1 (continued)
Minimum Sampling Requirements for Community and Non-community Water Supplies
Asbestos Asbestos site-specific
Radiologicals Gross Alpha [4]
Gross Beta [4]
Tritium [4]
Microbiologicals Total Q [5]
Coliform
NR
NR
NR
NR
Q
KEY:
A = Annually Q = Quarterly TE = Triennial NR = No Requirement
* - Quarterly sampling is required from any well that exceeds 50% of the MCL for
nitrates/nitrites. Annual sampling of wells that exceed this are permitted if they
remain in the voluntarily restricted category. One of the distribution samples should
be collected in the summer.
nt - nontransient systems
[1] - Testing for Group 3 chemicals is optional for distribution samples.
[2] - 1 sample from each well unless the well exceeds 50% of MCL.
[3] - Grandfathered by past SCDHS testing. The NYSDOH has allowed Suffolk County to
waive the monitoring requirements for these compounds.
[4] - Samples collected once every 4 years. Samples are collected quarterly by SCDHS and
SCWA at Brookhaven National Laboratory.
[5] - More frequent sampling may be required if annual sample shows a detection.
Mr. Martin Trent
January 7, 2010, revised February 4, 2010
Page 11
Suffolk's ground and drinking water. SCDHS current analytical methodologies, the
monitored analytes and their detection limits are included here as Figure 2.
2.3.2 Non-Community Supply Wells
Monitoring of non-community systems is described in more detail in the Task 7.4
memorandum entitled "Non-Community Supplies" (CDM, 2008). Water quality monitoring
requirements vary depending on factors such as:
· Type of system (i.e., transient vs. non-transient);
· Size of system (number served);
· Type of chemical or contaminant;
· Existence of previous violations;
· Presence and type of disinfection; and
Number of entry points. The majority of non-community systems in the County are transient
water systems - there are currently 18 non-transient non-community systems and 255
transient non-community water systems in Suffolk County. Although there are exceptions,
the minimum monitoring frequency for the transient non-community water systems for the
four contaminant categories addressed during the Source Water Assessment Program
(SWAP) are summarized on Table 2.
In addition to the self monitoring requirements identified on Table 2, since the 1980s, the
SCDHS has monitored non-community wells for VOCs and pesticides on an annual basis,
thus far exceeding minimum testing requirements of the state.
Table 2 - Non-community System Self-Monitoring Requirements
Contaminant Category
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
Pesticides
Microbials
Nitrates
Monitoring Frequency
State discretionl
State discretion~
Quarterly
One sample per entry point per year.
~ State discretion means requiring monitoring when the State has reason to believe the MCL has been violated, the potential
exists for an MCL violation or the contaminant may present a risk to public health.
Heptachlo~ ............................. < 0.2 0.40
0,2 $0,00 ug/b
0,~ 50.00 ug/b
0.3 50.00 ug/b
0,3 $0.oo ug/b
0.3 50,00 ug/b
5. ug/~ $eleniu~ (Se) .......................... < 4. 50.00 ug/I,
Aluminum (Al) .......................... <
Gzoss alpha ............................ < 1. 15.00 pCi/b Tritium ................................ < 200. 20000 pCi/~
8pacific Co,~uctivity-hab .............. - um/cm Bromide ................................ < O.S
Chloride (CI) .......................... < 2. 250.00 ~J/L Ortbollnosphate ......................... < 0,2
Not®s: '<' symbol means "less than" i~ic&gin9 n__o detection, mg/L = mllllgrams per llterl Ug/L = micrograms per liter.
Alkalinity is reported as mg/5 as CaC03, '*' syIRbo1 ~eana level fo~n~ exceede th~ ~xt~m ~t~i~n~ level (~h), or
2. $0.00 ug/b
0.5 50.00 ug/b
0.5 SO.O0 ug/b
0.5 3.00 ug/b
O.S SO.O0 ug/~
0,2 $0.00 ug/b
O.S 50.00 ug/b
0.$ ug/L
O.S 50,00 ug/L
0.2 $0,00 ug/b
O.S ug/L
o.s 50.o0 ug/b
0,5 50.00 ug/b
0,5 S.O0 ucJ/b
0,5 50.00 ug/b
0.5 SO,O0
P~equeet NO.= PR08-0001
Sample Date: 01/22/2008
Notes, '<' symbol means ,'less than,' indicating no detection, mg/L = milligrams per literl ug/L = micro,rams par liter.
£eaul~ MCL
Note~* '<' oymbol meade "lees than, lndicatin9 n_9o deteotion, mg/L * ~illi9~mms per liter; ug/L = mic~ram~ per liter.
0.5 5.00 ug/~
0.5 5,00 ug/6
O,S 2,00 ug/b
O,S $.00 ug/b
O.S $.00 ug/L
O.S 5.00 ug/b
0,5 S.O0 ug/L
O,S 60.00 ug/b
0,5 S.O0 u9/~
Toluene ................................
Ohlorobenzene ..........................
p-xylene ...............................
0.5 5,00 ug/L
0,5 5.00 ug/b
o.5 S.OO ug/L
0.5 5,00 ug/b
O.S 5.00 ug/b
Mr. Martin Trent
January 7, 2010, revised February 4, 2010
Page 15
As described in the Task 7.4 memorandum, monitoring is especially valuable in identifying
potential water quality concerns. Nearly all non-community wells in the County are
considered to be highly sensitive to all four contaminant categories evaluated during the
SWAP, due to the relatively short time of travel from the water table to the well screen. Based
on the modeling conducted during the SWAP, the time of travel for most non-community
wells is expected to be less than two years. Due to the short travel times, and because many
of the wells are located in unsewered areas, the susceptibility to microbials and nitrates was
rated as high or very high for approximately 60 percent of the non-community wells. Health
based and monitoring/reporting violations over the last decade were reviewed from the Safe
Water Drinking Information System (SWDIS) database for a subset of the operational non-
community water systems in Suffolk County. Four of the 18 non-transient non-community
systems had at least one health based violation and nine had at least one monitoring/
reporting violation over the last decade. Of the 50 transient non-community systems, 15, or
nearly one-third, had at least one health based violation and three had at least one
monitoring/reporting violation over the last decade. Almost half of the violations from both
system types were health based and were due to exceedances of total coliform limits in
monthly samples. No violations for any other contaminant groups were noted.
Re frequency of monitoring required by the State for bacteriological and nitrate
contamination, coupled with the SCDHS's initiative to annually monitor for VOCs and
pesticides, provides a significant level of protection for most non-community water supplies.
Increased monitoring frequency may help prevent exposure to pathogen contamination at
wells that were constructed prior to the establishment of the current well standards governing
non-community wells and/or where susceptibility was rated high or very high. Systems that
serve more than several hundred people should receive special consideration within this
group. Monitoring other parameters less frequently than one year would only be justified in
areas where contaminant prevalence and susceptibility are low and/or supporting
information exists to suggest that the time of travel is greater than two years.
Re susceptibility of the shallow non-community supplies to microbial contamination is being
addressed by the 2006 Ground Water Rule (GWR), developed by EPA to provide additional
protection from disease-causing microorganisms. GWR objectives include identification and
targeting of systems that are susceptible to fecal contamination that could introduce viral and
bacterial pathogens to drinking water supplies and increased monitoring, and (if necessary)
implementation of corrective action at the higher risk systems.
The GWR gives the states until December 31, 2014 to complete the initial sanitary survey cycle
for all non-community water systems. Following the initial sanitary survey cycle, states must
conduct sanitary surveys every five years for all non-community water systems. Because
SCDHS staff already visit and inspect most non-community wells at least once per year, the
sanitary surveys required by the GWR are not likely to identify any additional major
deficiencies with the non-community systems. However, since about 25 percent of the non-
Mr. Martin Trent
January 7, 2010, revised February 4, 2010
Page 16
community water systems in Suffolk County had at least one TCR violation over the past
decade, the triggered source water monitoring component of the GWR is Likely to be required.
If total coliform is identified in a sample, the supplier will be required to conduct source
water monitoring to evaluate whether the total coliform presence in the distribution system is
due to fecal contamination in the groundwater source. Within 24 hours of receiving the total
coliform-positive notice, the supplier must collect at least one ground water sample from each
groundwater source and test for the presence of one of three state-specified fecal indicators (E.
coli, enterococci, or coliphage). If the source sample is fecal indicator-positive, the GWR
requires the supplier to notify the state and the public. Unless directed by the state to take
immediate corrective action, the supplier must collect and test five additional source water
samples for the presence of the same state-specified fecal indicator within 24 hours. If any one
of the five additional source water samples tests positive, the GWR requires the supplier to
notify the state and the public and comply with the treatment technique requirements. The
compliance date of the triggered source water monitoring requirement was December 1, 2009.
For systems that have installed disinfection treatment, residual disinfection monitoring must
be conducted and daily grab samples for coliform analysis must be collected. These
requirements reflect a significant increase over the existing quarterly monitoring requirement.
Alternatively, suppliers can provide continuous residual monitoring, as is required for the
larger systems. The triggered source water monitoring and corrective action requirements
may result in an increase in the number of systems that provide disinfection or may result in
more systems being connected to a community water supply, where available.
Implementation of the GWR will improve reliability of non-community systems and protect
public health, especially for systems with wells that were constructed prior to the
establishment of the current well standards. Well and other system improvements triggered
by the GWR will have financial ramifications that may make it more cost-effective in some
instances to switch to a community supply. SCDHS responsibilities will increase as a result of
the added inspection, monitoring, corrective action, and enforcement requirements.
2.3.3 Private Wells
Private water supply wells are privately owned and maintained, and the SCDHS requires
testing only for those wells installed to serve new residential or commercial construction
projects. Otherwise, water quality testing for private wells is not regulated. However,
NYSDOH recommends annual testing of private water supply wells for total coliform. EPA
and the National Ground Water Association (NGWA) recommend annual water quality
testing of private wells for, at a minimum, total coliform, nitrates, total dissolved solids and
pH (USEPA, 2002). The SCDHS recommends that all private wells have a periodic
comprehensive water quality analysis. As most private water wells are shallow (SCDHS
requires a minimum depth of 40 feet below the water table), they are very susceptible to
contamination introduced by activities at the surface. As described in the Task 7.5
Mr. Martin Trent
January 7, 2010, revised February 4, 2010
Page 17
memorandum entitled Private Water Supply Wells (CDM, 2009) SCDHS has conducted
water quality monitoring of private systems for decades. The SCDHS private well water
quality testing program analyzes private well water for microbials, inorganic compounds
(nitrate, chloride, total dissolved solids, etc.), volatile organic compounds, petroleum
products, many pesticides and their degradates and certain pharmaceutical compounds. A
request for sampling and analysis can be made through the Department's website
(l~tp://www.c~.suff~k.ny.us/H~me/departments~ea~thservices/envir~t~met~ta~qua~itv/waterres~urces.as~x)~ The fee
for sampling and analysis of an existing well is $100 although households with a total income
of less than $25,000 can be exempted from the fee. SCDHS provides the analytical results and
recommendations regarding water quality found and possible alternatives for treatment of
problems. If the private well is to serve new construction, the cost of sample collection and
analysis is $350.
In 2008, SCDHS sampled 719 private wells, 288 of which were paid residential requests.
Others were sampled by SCDHS as part of on-going private well surveys to determine the
extent of known (or unknown) contamination. The Suffolk County Water Quality Testing
Program is currently under-utilized by residents. Although an average of 864 wells has been
sampled annually over the past 5 years, this is a small fraction of the County's nearly 47,000
private wells. The cost of the County's private well water quality testing program to a
resident is very reasonable, as costs from a commercial laboratory performing basic sampling
and analysis exceed several hundred dollars. In addition, the County routinely performs
testing for a wide range of chemical parameters, many of which are not commercially
available or are available only at significantly greater costs, including semi-volatile chemicals,
pharmaceuticals, and pesticide compounds and their breakdown products.
For example, since 1979, the SCDHS has continued to sample for the potato pesticide aldicarb
(also known as trade name Temik) and its breakdown metabolites. In 2007, following a class
action settlement, SCDHS received funds from Union Carbide Corporation (now assumed by
Bayer Crop Science) to continue testing for aldicarb in areas where the pesticide was
previously applied. The SCDHS also performs follow-up sampling of private wells twice each
year, when the pesticide imidacloprid is detected during routine sampling events. According
to SCDHS data, approximately 10,900 wells have been analyzed for imidacloprid since 2001.
If monitoring identifies the presence of contamination that may affect other area wells,
SCDHS will also monitor the other area wells. Finally, SCDHS has been testing for PPCPs for
several years, and has detected low levels (generally less than one microgram per liter) of
PPCPs such as gemfibrozil, ibuprofen, BHT, carisprodol and DEET.
2.3.4 Monitoring Wells
Through the years, SCDHS has installed an extensive network of monitoring wells, both to
document water levels and to characterize water quality and identify trends. Historically,
SCDHS sampled more than 500 wells distributed throughout the County for a variety of
water quality parameters, on an annual basis. These wells, which were often screened within
Mr. Martin Trent
January 7, 2010, revised February 4, 2010
Page 18
shallower zones of the aquifer system than the pubhc supply wells, provided an "early
warning system" of contamination introduced to the aquifer system before it travelled down
to water supply wells. Annual sampling from this network of monitoring wells was
terminated in 1996, due to reduced Department staffing.
SCDHS has also monitored water levels on a quarterly basis for many years. This data was
utilized on a regional basis for groundwater supply and surface water resource management.
Water table data was also used on a local basis by builders, to establish safe elevations for
basements and on-site wastewater disposal systems, so that they would not be affected by
high water table elevations or flooding. Due to reduced staffing levels, SCDHS was forced to
reduce groundwater level monitoring in 2003. However, as part of a cooperative effort,
SCDHS collects a synoptic round of 300 water levels from their network of 470 wells at the
same time that the USGS performs their synoptic water level monitoring of 125 monitoring
wells each year in March. This information helps to provide the regional information useful
for evaluating water resource management trends, but does not completely fulfill the needs of
local builders, nor provide a continuing record of seasonal changes in the water table.
Builders of new homes relying on on-site wastewater disposal systems are required to install
a boring on the property to determine the elevation of the on-site water table. In the past, the
water level obtained from the on-site monitoring point was then compared to water levels
obtained during the same time period from nearby monitoring wells. Based on the difference
between the water level in the monitoring well, and the highest seasonal water table
identified at that monitoring well, a correction factor could be applied to the on-site
measurement, to determine the highest anticipated water table elevation on the property.
This information would be used by builders for the design and the SCDHS during the review
of the on-site wastewater disposal system. Because the water table in some parts of the
County can vary significantly (often several feet) on a seasonal as well as annual basis,
collection of the data on an annual basis rather than a seasonal basis does not always yield
sufficient data to make informed decisions.
2.3.5 Special Programs
SCDHS routinely conducts groundwater investigations, including installation, sampling and
analysis of monitoring wells in response to groundwater quality concerns. In recent yIears,
these focused groundwater monitoring programs have included:
· Installation, sampling and analysis of monitoring wells up-gradient and down-gradient of
a variety of land use types to assess the impacts of land use on nitrate, VOC and pesticide
levels;
· Installation, samplIng and analysis of monitoring wells in areas where well contamination
is reported to delineate the extent of groundwater contamination, particularly at known or
suspected hazardous waste disposal and superfund sites; and
Mr. Martin Trent
January 7, 2010, revised February 4, 2010
Page 19
· Installation, sampling and analysis of monitoring wells at Brownfields sites.
The data collected during these focused studies helps to characterize source water quality, to
relate the impacts of over-lying land use to groundwater quality, to assess the effectiveness of
various pollution control programs and finally to identify potential impacts to public and
private drinking water supplies. These monitoring programs have been invaluable in the
development of programs and regulations to protect the County's water supply, and to
protect the health of County residents. For example, SCDHS investigations have been critical
to studies relating the impact of development density upon nitrate levels in groundwater, in
identifying the presence of pesticides in water supplies, in triggering site investigations and
clean-ups at known or suspected hazardous waste disposal and superfund sites, and in
supporting litigation (e.g., MTBE releases).
3.0 Public and Environmental Health Laboratory
SCDHS's Public and Environmental Health Laboratory (PEHL) enables the Division of
Environmental Quality to fulfill its regulatory, planning and enforcement objectives of
protecting public health and the environment.
3.1 Overview
The PEHL performs comprehensive analyses of water samples for a wide range of parameters
including microbials, VOCs, semi-VOCs, inorganic compounds, metals, pesticides,
radioactive isotopes and PPCPs. The PEHL analyzes drinking water samples for a total of
341 potential contaminants, as identified in Table 2 utilizing the following analytical methods:
· Standard inorganic analyses
various SM and EPA procedures 8 analytes
· Perchlorate EPA 332.0 1 analyte
· Volatile organic compounds EPA 524.2 86 analytes
· Metals EPA 200.7 & 200.8 30 analytes
· Semi-volatile organics
EPA 525.2 & 527
144 analytes
· Carbamate pesticides SM 21 6610B 12 analytes
· Chlorinated pesticides EPA 505 20 analytes
· Microextractable compounds EPA 504
2 analytes
· Dacthal metabolites SCDHS HPLC/LC-GC/MS 2 analytes
Mr. Martin Trent
January 7, 2010, revised February 4, 2010
Page 20
· Herbicide metabolltes SCDHS LC/MS 31 analytes
· Radiological EPA 900 & 906 3 analytes
· Bacteriological various SM 4 analytes
In addition to these currently utilized methods, the PEHL has also employed EPA Methods
555 and 526 for determination of chlorinated acids and semi-volatile compounds,
respectively. Due to staffing limitations, both of these methods have been discontinued. A
variety of sophisticated instruments and techniques are required to complete the analyses
conducted, including:
· Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS)
· Liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS);
· Gas chromatographs with selective detectors;
· Liquid chromatographs with ultraviolet of fluorescence detectors;
· Automated Ion Chromatographs (IC);
· Inductively coupled plasma/optical emission spectroscopy (ICP/OES)
· Inductively coupled plasma/mass spectroscopy (ICP/MS)
· Automated liquid scintillation and gas proportional counters;
· Vitek 32 bacteria identification system, which can identify thousands of bacteria species.
The SCDHS is accredited by both the National Environmental Laboratory Approval Program
(NELAP) and the NYSDOH Environmental Laboratory Approval Program (ELAP) for
potable and non-potable water (as well as for solid and hazardous wastes and air emission
categories). As part of the certification program, PEHL analysts are required to pass the
"Demonstration of Capability" before they are certified to analyze specific analyte(s). The
PEHL is routinely inspected, and analysts must continue to pass proficiency tests every six
months for each category for which they are certified. In addition, the PEHL is required to
develop standard operating procedures (SOPs) for each test method used, and conduct and
document annual internal audits to maintain compliance with the laboratory's "Quality
System", and NELAC standards.
The PEHL is an acknowledged leader in the development and application of analytical
methods to address emergIng issues. The PEHL continues to add newly published analytical
Mr. Martin Trent
January 7, 2010, revised February 4, 2010
Page 21
methods to its repertoire, adapt existing methods to new applications, and develop new
methods when they are required. For example, the PEHL adapted an existing EPA method to
detect ten PPCPs and pesticides and their metabolites that are not routinely evaluated
elsewhere, and developed and published methods to identify methyl carbamate pesticides
and their metabolites (e.g., Ternik and Dacthal). The carbamate method was later adopted by
the EPA as Method 531. In response to the federal Beaches Environmental Assessment and
Coastal Health Act requirements, the PEHL now performs 5,000 bathing beach water samples
for enterococci each summer.
3.2 Challenges
In addition to responsibilities in analyzing groundwater and drinkIng water samples, the
PEHL also supports SCDHS's missions by analyzing samples of:
· Bottled water;
· Swimming pools;
· Sewage;
· Fresh surface waters; including bathIng beaches;
· MarIne waters; IncludIng bathing beaches;
· Soil;
· Soil Vapor;
· Solid Waste;
· Hazardous Waste; and
· Ambient Air.
To comply with their responsibilities, the PEHL utilizes automated instruments to the extent
possible; many of these inslxuments are operational 24 hours/day, six days/week, while the
bacteriology section is necessarily operational seven days/week due to the requirements of
the analytical protocols.
Today, as the PEHL continues to perform essential functions in support of the County's
drinking water, beach, and environmental protection programs, it is continually faced with
the challenges associated with responding to added responsibilities and increasIngly
demanding regulatory requirements, with fewer resources. The SCDHS has responded more
nimbly to concerns regarding emerging contaminants such as MTBE and PPCPs than have
Mr. Martin Trent
January 7, 2010, revised February 4, 2010
Page 22
the state and federal governments, and hence monitors for many more contaminants of
concern than is required by the EPA. The detection of contaminants of potential concern to
public health has enabled the County and water suppliers to respond appropriately to protect
public health. Maintaining the necessary method-specific laboratory certifications is,
however, a time-consuming process, and reduces available analysts' time and resources away
from the PEHL's actual work product of analyzing environmental samples. In addition, it
reduces the laboratory's flexibility in respondIng to changing needs and short term demands
during analyst vacations or illnesses. While the PEHL workload has Increased along with the
number of public supply wells in the County, the number of analytes reported, and the time
required to obtaIn, maIntain and document certification, the number of analysts has declined
to levels where certain methodologies are no longer employed, some analytical parameters
are no longer tested, and the number of samples tested has been reduced.
4.0 Water Quality
Suffolk County groundwater quality is described in the Task 4.1 memorandum entitled
Groundwater Quality (CDM, 2009) and is briefly summarized here. A review of available
groundwater quality data demonstrates that Suffolk County's groundwater, as characterized
by untreated water samples from public supply wells, remains largely In compliance with
drinking water standards for the contaminants of concern identified, however, trends of
increasing degradation of the resource continue, as a result of impacts by human activities.
4.1 Summary of Water Quality Trends
4.1.1 Nitrate
Concentrations of nitrate, one important indicator of water quality impact, have increased in
all three aquifers since the last Comprehensive Water Resources Management Plan was
completed In 1987. A comparison of nitrate levels in public supply wells in 1987 to nitrate
levels in the same public supply wells in 2005 revealed that nitrates were detected in more
supply wells, and at generally higher concentrations in 2005 than in the past. The average
nitrate concentration of public supply wells screened in the upper glacial aquifer was 4.34
mg/L In 2005, well below the MCL of 10 mg/L, but higher than the average of 3.12 mg/L in
1987. The average nitrate concentration of all public supply wells screened in the Magothy
aquifer was 3.43 mg/L, again, well below the applicable MCL, but higher than the 1.14 mg/L
1987 average. Nitrogen levels in nearly 10 percent of the private wells tested over the past 10
years have exceeded the 10 mg/L MCL, and nitrogen levels in 29 percent of private wells
tested exceeded the groundwater management zone target concentrations of 4 and 6 mg/L.
Although the trend is toward increasing concentrations, nitrate levels remaIn below 6 mg/L
in over 90 percent of the public supply wells tested and the 10 mg/L drinking water standard
was exceeded in untreated water from less than two percent of all supply wells.
Private wells, which tend to be shallow wells screened in the upper glacial aquifer, showed
evidence of nitrate contamination in all parts of the County except for the sewered southwest.
Mr. Martin Trent
January 7, 2010, revised February 4, 2010
Page 23
The greatest numbers of private wells impacted by nitrates are found on the North Fork and
in the southeastern part of the County. Agriculture remains a major source of nitrogen
contamination of the aquifer, particularly on the North Fork. While a number of shallow
wells screened in the upper glacial aquifer have been impacted by nitrates, ambient levels of
nitrate also continue to be reported throughout large zones of the Magothy aquifer, including
southwestern Suffolk County. Groundwater nitrogen levels increase in unsewered areas as
housing density increases.
4.1.2 Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
Low levels of three of the VOCs most commonly detected in Suffolk County groundwater
(PCE, TCE and 1,1,1 TCA) were reported primarily in the more highly developed western haif
of the County. Drinking water quality standards were exceeded in raw water from less than
two percent of the supply wells sampled. VOC results show that levels of tetrachloroethene
(PCE) and trichloroethene (TCE) have increased in the upper glacial and Magothy aquifers
since the prior comprehensive study was completed in 1987. Both PCE and TCE were
detected in more wells, and generally at higher concentrations in 2005 than in 1987. Increased
levels of these VOCs were most evident in the western half of the County. Trichlorethane
(TCA) detections did not increase in the upper glacial aquifer over the same period of time; in
fact, slight decreases in the already low reported levels were observed in many wells. TCA
contamination was, however, detected in more Magothy wells in 2005 than in 1987. There
was an overall increase of VOC detections in Magothy wells indicating that contaminants are
migrating to deeper portions of the aquifer.
The gasoline additive MTBE remains a major contaminant in public and private wells despite
the 2004 ban in New York State. MTBE was detected in community and non-community
wells located throughout the County, including 130 upper glacial public supply wells, 17
Magothy public supply wells and 10 percent of the private wells tested. Although MTBE was
detected in approximately 16 percent of raw groundwater samples, the current New York
State drinking water standard for MTBE of 10 gg/L was exceeded in only two community
supply wells.
4.1.3 Perchlorate
Low levels of perchlorate were detected throughout the County in both the upper glacial and
Magothy aquifers, although no detections were reported in supply wells located in Babylon.
Perchlorate was detected in 60 public supply wells, 6 percent of all supply wells sampled.
However, the New York State action level of 18 gg/L was not exceeded at any well sampled.
Perchlorate was detected in fewer Magothy than upper glacial wells, and in general, at lower
concentrations.
4.1.4 Pesticides
Since 1997, SCDHS has conducted an extensive monitoring program that characterized
pesticides levels in groundwater based upon sampling conducted at supply wells, and at
Mr. Martin Trent
January 7, 2010, revised February 4, 2010
Page 24
monitoring wells in areas of known or suspected high pesticide use, including agricultural
areas, vineyards and golf courses. The study identified 40 pesticide-related chemicals or
pesticide breakdown products in community supply well samples, and 40 other pesticide-
related chemicals in samples from shallower non-community supply wells and private wells.
During the study period, 140 community supply wells (approximately 23 percent of the wells
sampled) were impacted by pesticide-related contaminants; pesticide-related chemicals were
detected above the MCL (most often, the unspecified organic chemical MCL of 50 gg/L) in
raw or untreated or water from 15 community supply wells. Many of the pesticides and
pesticide-breakdown products detected have been banned from use in Suffolk County for
decades, but are still present in the aquifer system due both to their solubility and persistence
in the environment. Many wells in agricultural areas exhibit low concentrations of multiple
pesticides, herbicides and degradation products.
4.1.5 Overview
While implementation of regulations and management activities protecting groundwater
quality have been somewhat effective in reducing the potential impacts of human
development, the effects of overlying land uses on groundwater quality are very evident and
require a strong groundwater protection program on the local level.
Monitoring programs protect consumers from ingesting contaminated water. Identification
of the presence of a contaminant in the raw supply will prompt the supplier to provide
treatment if it is readily available, to remove the well from service, or, in some cases, to blend
the raw water with water from another uncontaminated source to dilute contaminant levels to
a value lower than the MCL.
Most groundwater pumped in Suffolk County remains in compliance with New York State
and Federal drinking water standards and does not require any treatment. Public suppliers
do, however, provide treatment prior to delivering potable supply, as required to comply
with established MCLs. In general, the primary treatment systems that exist in Suffolk
County are:
· Chlorination (disirffection);
· pH adjustment for corrosion control;
· Removal of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and
· Removal/sequestration of naturally occurring iron and manganese
In addition, some wells are treated for elevated concentrations of nitrate and perchiorate.
Advanced treatment such as VOC removal is installed for less than ten percent of the
community supply wells in the County.
Mr. Martin Trent
January 7, 2010, revised February 4, 2010
Page 25
4.2 Emerging Contaminants
Contaminants of potential concern to Suffolk County drinking water supplies were identified
in the Task 4.1 and Task 7.1 memoranda entitled Groundwater Quality (CDM, 2009) and
Drinking Water Standards (CDM, 2009), respectively. These contaminants include
microbials, perchlorate, pesticides, PPCPs, formaldehyde, Tert-butyl alcohol (TBA), and 1, 4 -
dioxane, glycohc compounds, phenolic surfactants and propane, all of which are briefly
discussed in Section 5, below.
On a national level, the EPA develops Contaminant Candidate Lists (CCLs) of contaminants
that are not sul~ect to any proposed or promulgated drinking water regulations that are
known or anticipated to occur in public water systems, and that may require regulation under
the SDWA. The CCL identifies EPA's priority contaminants for information collection,
potential future regulation, drinking water research, occurrence monitoring and guidance
development.
As described in detail in the Task 7.1 memorandum, as new and improved analytical
techniques are developed to detect the presence of trace amounts of compounds and their
breakdown products at lower levels in groundwater, and as new contaminants are detected, it
is important to be able to identify those compounds that are potentially significant
contaminants from a water supply perspective. This requires collection of data to:
· Assess the occurrence of contaminants in sources of drinking water supplies;
· Characterize the mobility and persistence of these contaminants in the environment; and
· Evaluate the impact that exposure to the contaminants may have on human health.
The SDWA requires EPA to develop a CCL every five years. The CCLs published in 1998 and
2005 were described in the Task 7.1 memorandum. Since that document was completed, EPA
has published CCL 3, based on input from the National Academy of Science's National
Research Council (NRC), the National Drinking Water Advisory Council (NDWAC), and the
Science Advisory Board (SAB). EPA published the draft CCL notice in the Federal Register in
2008; based on comments received and additional information collected, EPA selected the
parameters listed on Table 3, from a universe of approximately 7,500 potential drinking water
contaminants. EPA is required to make regulatory determinations for at least five of these
contaminants within five years.
A number of the parameters on the list have been identified by NYSDOH as POCs or UOCs,
or have been identified as contaminants of concern by the SCDHS; over two dozen of these
contaminants are already routinely monitored.
Mr. Martin Trent
January 7, 2010, revised February 4, 2010
Page 26
Table 3 - Final Drinking Water Contaminant Candidate List 3 (CCL 3)
Industrial chemical, solvent
Industrial chemical, rubber production
Solvent or solvent stabilizer
Production, paint solvent, food additive
Manufacture of flavorings and perfumes
Production, corrosion inhibitor
Production, pesticide, food additive
Herbicide
Herbicide degradate of Acetochlor
Herbicide degrade of Alachlor
Former insecticide, component of benzene hexachloride
Herbicide
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January 7,2010, revised February 4,2010
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Food additive
Defoliant, desiccant, disinfeetlon byproduct
Herbicide
Industrial chemical
Insecticide
Insecticide
Herbicide
Estrogenic hormone used in pharmaceuticals
Estrogenic hormone used in pharmaceuticals
Estrogenic hormone used in veterinary and human
pharmaceuticals
Insecticide
Fungicidal and insecticidal fumigant
Insecticide
Naturally occurring
Refrigerant
Mr. Martin Trent
January 7, 2010, revised February 4, 2010
Page 28
Production of other substances
Insecticide
Fumigant, fungicide
Herbicide
Degradate of the herbicide metolachlor
Naturally occurring
Pharmaceuticals and explosives such as rocket
propellants
Nitrosamine, gasoline additive, disinfection byproduct
Nitrosamine, disinfection byproduct
Nitrosamine, research chemical, disinfection byproduct
Manufacture, constituent of asphalt and naptha
Industrial chemical
Herbicide
Mr. Martin Trent
January 7, 2010, revised February 4, 2010
Page 29
Firefighting foams and surfactants
Insecticide
Production of other substances and pharmaceutical
Solvent
Fungicide
Naturally occurring; used in bacteriology and medicine
Terbufos degradate
Fungicide
Insecticide
Pesticide
Naturally occurring, used as a catalyst
Fungicide
Adenovirus
Mr. Martin Trent
January 7, 2010, revised February 4, 2010
Page 30
Caliciviruses
Campylobacter jejuni
Escherichia coli (0157)
Helicobacter pylori
Hepatitis A virus
Legionella pneumophila
Mycobacterium avium
Naegleria fowleri
Salmonella enteric
Shigella sonnei
Source: United States Environmental Protection Agency, 2009, Drinking Water Contaminant
Candidate List and Regulatory Determinations
5.0 Monitoring Needs
5.1 National Perspective
Groundwater monitoring is a recognized need on a national basis. The recently published "A
National Framework for Groundwater Monitoring in the United States" (2009, the
Subcommittee on Ground Water of the Advisory Committee on Water Information) reports
that "The Nation's ground water is under stress and requires immediate attention at the local,
State, interstate and national level. State and Federal agencies have measured ground-water
level declines in nearly every State. Groundwater quality changes from chemical use and
waste disposal have occurred in all States. Climate change through increased flooding may
significantly affect ground-water quality and through drought significantly affect ground
water levels....' In general these needs are more pronounced for Suffolk County's sole
source aquifer, due to the permeable sand and gravel substrate, and the County's location on
an island terminating as two narrow peninsulas.
Sufficient quantity of suitable quality groundwater is required for potable supply, particularly
in Suffolk County where alternative sources do not exist. The federal Secure Water Act
directs the United States Geological Survey (USGS) to develop a National Ground Water
Monitoring Network (NGWMN), in cooperation with state and local agencies. The Federal
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January 7, 2010, revised February 4, 2010
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Advisory Committee on Water Information (ACWI) Subcommittee on Ground Water
(SOGW) has developed a framework for NGWMN development that would establish the
monitoring network (for both groundwater levels and groundwater quality), the network
management structure and a national ground-water data portal; explore federal funding
opportunities, and implement pilot projects to test the proposed approach.
The NGWMN is being designed to support a nation-wide evaluation of several issues that are
directly related to drinking water and are equally relevant to Suffolk County:
· Spatial and temporal patterns of ground-water levels and quality;
· The extent to which ground-water levels and quality changes are related to human activity;
· Responses to climatic variations.
Similar to SCDHS's monitoring approach, the NGWMN will include surveillance monitoring,
trend monitoring and special studies monitoring. Two approaches are being considered to
establish the distribution of monitoring points - the first specifies a minimum number of
statistically significant points (e.g., 30), the second sets a minimum density of monitoring
points (e.g., a minimum of one per 100 square kilometers). For Suffolk County, this would
mean monitoring a minimum of 61 wells, most likely per aquifer. The SOGW has also
identified a framework of sampling frequencies and analytical protocols appropriate for
various types of aquifer systems.
Currently, five states (Indiana, Minnesota, Montana, New Jersey and Texas) were selected to
pilot the approach and identify recommendations leading to full-scale implementation.
5.2 Local Perspective
SCDHS has an established network of monitoring wells, the PEHL to perform analytical
work, and a historical database extending back several decades. It would be prudent to
identify and utilize a critical subset of the established network of wells, analytical capabilities
and baseline data to continue to monitor for selected parameters. This information would
provide an "early warning system" for drinking water supplies, and would also be useful in
helping to identify those source water protection activities that are most successful in
protecting the groundwater supply.
The Task 7.1 memorandum entitled Drinking Water Standards (CDM, 2009) discussed the
potential need to regulate a variety of contaminants that have been detected in groundwater.
The memorandum concluded that for most of the contaminants of potential concern,
additional occurrence monitoring would be useful, along with research on health effects, to
develop the information on which a sound regulatory decision could be established.
Although the contaminant-specific information presented in the Task 7.1 memorandum is not
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January Z 2010, revised February 4,2010
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reproduced in its entirety here, the conclusions pertaining to monitoring needs are
summarized below.
5.2.1 Contaminants of Potential Concern
Previously identified contaminants of potential concern to Suffolk County drinking water
supplies include microbials, perchlorate, pesticides, PPCPs, formaldehyde, Tert-butyl alcohol
(TBA), and 1, 4 -dioxane, glycolic compounds, phenohc surfactants and propane. Several of
these contaminants, including specific PPCPs, are on the EPA CCL 3.
5.2.1.1 Microbials
Microbial contamination of private wells that are not disinfected and that may be
downgradient of septic systems is the most significant concern identified. The SCDHS
requires testing of all private wells serving new construction and provides comprehensive
testing for any existing private wells for a processing fee. Given the relatively shallow depths
of the private wells, the short time of travel from the water table to the well screen, and
because private wells are often located in unsewered areas, it would be a good idea for most
private well owners to monitor for microbials and nitrogen at least bi-annually.
5.2.1.2 Perchlorate
Perchlorate (C104') is an oxidizing anion (negatively charged ion) that originates as a
contaminant in ground and surface waters from the dissolution of perchloric acid and salts of
perchlorate including ammonium, potassium, magnesium, or sodium. With the exception of
potassium perchlorate, each of these compounds is extremely soluble in water, with solubihty
similar to table salt. The perchlorate ion is very stable and extremely mobile in groundwater
and can persist for very long periods of time due to the strong chemical chlorine-oxygen
bond. Perchlorate is an oxidizer that is used in solid rocket propellant, matches, fireworks,
bleaching agents, road flares, and some fertilizers. Additional information on the use and
occurrence of perchlorate in Suffolk County is described in the Task 4-1 memorandum
entitled Groundwater Quality. It remains on the EPA's Unregulated Contaminant
Monitoring Rule (UCMR) list for Cycle 2, which began in 2007, and is on EPA's CCL 3.
NYSDOH has established a guidance value of 18 pg/L for perchlorate.
SCWA and SCDHS first began targeted monitoring for perchlorate in the spring of 1998 at the
BOMARC site in Westhampton in response to reports of detections of perchlorate in western
states. At the BOMARC facility, up to 3,370 pg/1 was found in monitoring wells; and at a
fireworks manufacturing plant in Yaphank, 122 I~g/1 was detected in a monitoring well
(unpubhshed SCDHS data). Both sites showed significant perchlorate plumes resulting from
poor fireworks disposal practices.
In 1999, perchlorate monitoring was expanded to include quarterly monitoring by CWS for a
1-year period, and SCSDHS began surveying private wells. The results of the County's
perchlorate monitoring efforts were presented in a report entitled Summary, Perchlorate
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January 7, 2010, revised February 4, 2010
Page 33
Monitoring of Water Supplies in Suffolk County, NY (SCDHS, 2001). From 1998 through
2008, SCDHS found that approximately 7 percent of the 5,882 samples analyzed contained
perchlorate, with concentrations ranging from 1 to 49 gg/L, with a mean of 7.2 ~tg/L.
In 2005, perchlorate was detected in 40 community supply wells, located in 25 different
wellfields, although no detections greater than or equal to the action level of 18 ~tg/L were
identified in community and non-community well results contained in the SCWA or SCDHS
Blacksmith database. Most perchlorate detections were located on the North Fork and are
likely related to agricultural fertilizer sources. Please refer to the Task 4-1 memorandum for
additional information.
Conventional treatment technologies employed on Long Island, such as filtration, air
stripping, and carbon adsorption, have not been effective at removing perchlorate. Other
more advanced processes (e.g., ion exchange, membrane processes, and anaerobic
biodegradation) have shown some success. Most often, blending to reduce perchlorate below
regulatory thresholds is used to address perchlorate in drinking water supplies. As of June
2005, SCWA blended water pumped from six wells with other wells in the welifield to reduce
perchlorate concentrations.
Due to its stability, mobility in groundwater, its confirmed presence in Suffolk County, the
ineffectiveness of common treatment technologies, and its regulatory status, perchlorate
continues to pose a potential threat to groundwater supplies in Suffolk County, particularly
on the North Fork. Perchlorate is now routinely analyzed by the SCDHS at all public water
supply wells in the county. The SCWA also performs its own analyses for this contaminant.
Because perchlorate has been detected in Suffolk County's aquifer system at significant
concentrations, and in hundreds of samples, routine monitoring for perchlorate should be
continued.
5.2.1.3 Pesticides
Pesticides, including insecticides, herbicides and fungicides, are a group of synthetic organic
compounds used to kill or control insect pests and nuisance vegetation that affect crops, turf,
residential lawns and gardens, homes (e.g., termiticides), pets, and people that are widely
used throughout the United States in agricultural, recreational (e.g., golf courses and parks)
and residential areas.
As described in more detail in the Task 4.1 memorandum, SCDHS conducted an extensive
pesticide monitoring program from 1997 through 2006, in cooperation with the New York
State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC), Nassau County Department of
Public Works (NCDPW) and Nassau County Health Department (NCHD). The study
included assessment of almost 6,000 samples obtained from approximately 600 community
supply wells, as well as focused investigations targeting shallow wells in areas of known or
suspected pesticide use, including agricultural areas, vineyards, lawn care businesses, and
Mr. Martin Trent
January 7, 2010, revised February 4, 2010
Page 34
golf courses. The study identified numerous pesticides and pesticide breakdown products
that have been detected in groundwater.
The data targeted a total of 259 compounds, including approximately 120 pesticide-related
chemicals (parent compounds, metabolltes, inert ingredients and manufacturing
contaminants). SCDHS has detected 80 pesticide-related chemicals in Suffolk County
drinking water wells. Overall, 40 pesticide-related chemicals or pesticide breakdown
products were identified in community supply well samples, often occurring as co-
contaminants in impacted wells. There have been as many as 12 pesticide compounds
identified in a single sample from one affected well. In addition, 40 other pesticide-related
chemicals were detected in samples from non-community supply wells and private wells
which were not detected in community well samples. SCDHS reported that 140 community
supply wells (approximately 23 percent of the wells sampled) were impacted by pesticide-
related contaminants during the period from 1997 through 2006. NYSDOH has established
MCLs for some of these pesticides, which are currently on EPA's CCL 3 (e.g., alachlor and
metolachlor). The pesticide-related chemicals without contaminant-specific MCLs that were
found most often by the SCDHS were:
· The herbicide Metolachlor's (trade name Dual) two primary degradation products,
metolachlor ethane sulfonic acid (ESA) and metolachlor oxanilic acid (OA);
· Tetrachloroterephthalic acid (TCPA) a dacthal herbicide metabolite;
· Metalaxyl, a fungicide; and
· Imidacloprid, an insecticide.
The five pesticides most frequently detected by USGS sampling in shallow wells on Long
Island and New Jersey were atrazine and metolachlor (agricultural herbicides), deethyla-
trazine (a metabolite), and prometon and simazine (herbicides available for purchase and use
by industry, agriculture and homeowners). Reported concentrations of each in groundwater
were well below the MCL or drinking water health advisory, except for deethylatrazine, for
which no standard or guideline has been established to date. Prometon, an herbicide applied
where total vegetation control is required (e.g., along roadways or utility right-of-ways) is
available commercially, and is ranked 14th nationally for home and garden use (USGS, 1999).
The USGS study found that the most commonly used pesticides were not the same com-
pounds that were most frequently detected in shallow groundwater in the study area.
Pesticides that are characterized as having low persistence and/or low mobility were detected
in less than five percent of the groundwater samples, even when high quantities of use had
been reported. Pesticides that were reportedly applied in much lower quantities were
detected more frequently when they were characterized with higher persistence and/or
mobility.
Mr. Martin Trent
January 7, 2010, revised February 4, 2010
Page 35
Based on SCDHS data indicating the continued presence of pesticide-related chemicals in
both groundwater and supply wells, continued monitoring is recommended. Sampling is
already performed in accordance with NYSDOH drinking water standards for many of the
most commonly detected pesticides. Targeted monitoring in agricultural (or previously
agricultural) areas should continue for previously identified pesticides that are not currently
regulated, including TCPA, metalaxyl and imidacloprid. In addition, monitoring for DEET
should be implemented throughout the County.
5.2.1.4 Pharmaceuticals and PersonaI Care Products
Pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs), also sometimes referred to as
pharmaceutically-active compounds (PhACs), include a broad range of products such as
prescription (including antibiotics) and over the counter drugs, veterinary and illicit drugs,
fragrances, sun-screen products, cosmetics, some detergents, and some food and drink
additives and all of their respective metabolites and transformation products. Many are used
and released to the environment in large enough quantities to be detected in wastewaters and
receiving waters. A subset of this group of contaminants, endocrine disrupting compounds
(EDCs), is also of concern. The overview presented in the following pages will refer to all of
these compounds as PPCPs, unless the specific study results described focus on a particular
sub-category of PPCPs.
Sources of PPCPs in the environment include treated and untreated sanitary wastewater,
agricultural runoff (e.g., from animal feedlots where food has been supplemented by
antibiotics), and landfill leachates where disposal of uncompleted courses of medications such
as antibiotics has occurred. PPCPs are continuously introduced into the environment by
sewage treatment plants and by on-site wastewater disposal systems (e.g., septic tanks and
leach fields) in unsewered areas.
Based upon estimated release rates to the environment, and upon the field surveys that have
been completed, the presence of PPCPs is expected to be at about the nanograms per liter
(ng/1) or part per trilhon (ppt) level in the environment. Very little information on the fate of
PPCPs in the environment is available. The persistence of several classes of PPCPs (e.g., blood
hpid regulators, musks, etc.) has been documented, along with low volatihty in general. Musk
fragrances are bioaccumulative and persistent in the environment. Nonylphenol (found in
detergents, paints and cosmetics) is stable and persistent in the environment. Estrogens tend
to be hydrophobic and are likely to bioconcentrate. Nevertheless, even those PPCPs that are
not persistent may have chronic effects on receptors, as the source of the PPCPs (e.g.,
wastewater) is continuously discharged to the environment. PPCPs with low persistence may
have equivalent exposure potentials as persistent contaminants as they are continuously
released to the environment.
Most PPCPs are not currently monitored - and in fact, cannot be monitored at this time
because analytical protocols have yet to be developed. There are potentially thousands of
Mr. Martin Trent
January 7, 2010, revised February 4, 2010
Page 36
PPCPs and their metabolites and breakdown products that may be released to the
environment. It should not be necessary to monitor for all of these parameters, however the
subset of compounds with potential human-health impacts that ultimately should be
monitored has not yet been identified. In addition, analytical methods to detect the extremely
Iow levels of some PPCPs and their metabolites that may exist in the environment are not yet
available. While analytical protocols to detect some PPCPs have been developed, cost
effective methods to rapidly detect the presence of the many compounds that may be present
Phenolic surfactants, used in a variety of industrial and domestic detergents and commonly
found in wastewater are one subset of PPCPs for which no drinking water standards exist.
Nonylphenol and octyphenol mimic estrogen.
A variety of major research needs in this area have been identified:
· Development of methods (e.g., analytical techniques) to identify PPCPs at the very Iow
concentrations expected in the environment, development of efficient methodologies to
analyze mixtures of compounds, development of cost-effective analytical methods;
· Identification of priority or target compounds that can be used for rapid/cost effective
screening for PPCPs;
· Fate of PPCPs in the environment (including subsurface environment/groundwater);
· Exposure;
· Effects of low levels of PPCPs on human health and the environment;
· Establishment of sensible analytical detection limits and treatment goals;
· Additive effects of PPCPs with similar modes of action, and finally
· Treatability.
This emerging issue is of potential significance to Long Island's groundwater supplies, and is
being followed with great interest at federal, state and County levels. PPCPs are
continuously introduced into the environment by sewage treatment plants and by on-site
wastewater disposal systems (e.g., septic tanks and leach fields) in unsewered areas. Recent
research by SCDHS indicates that PPCPs discharged to the subsurface by laundromats and
health care facilities are detected in downgradient groundwater. Research to date indicates
that conventional treatment systems are often not effective in removing PPCPs from the waste
stream.
Mr. Martin Trent
January 7, 2010, revised February 4, 2010
Page 37
In response to the potential impacts of PPCPs on the County's groundwater, the SCDHS
initiated a monitoring program incorporating analytical methodology development by the
PEHL. The SCDHS monitoring approach utilizes EPA methodologies designed for analysis of
regulated semi-VOCs and a gas chromatograph/mass spectrometer (GC/MS) Solid Phase
Extraction method developed by the PEHL. Over the last several years, SCDHS has collected
several thousand samples from public and private well sources and from test wells installed
for specific investigations. SCDHS has detected at least a dozen PPCPs including ibuprofen,
Gemfibrozil, carbamazepine, carisprodol, caffeine, BHT and BHA, benzophenone, DEET,
phthalates, Bisphenol-A (BPA) and Dilantin.
SCDHS has detected PPCPs most often in shallow private wells, with indications of sanitary
sewage contamination. While most detections (with the noteworthy exception of wells
downgradient of laundromats) have been at concentrations of less than i gg/L, maximum
concentrations of some PPCPs found in Suffolk County groundwater have exceeded several
parts per billion, and are cause for concern. SCDHS sampling data conducted by the
Department between 1997 and 2008 showed PPCP occurrence as follows:
Public community water supply wells - Detections were found in 23 of 694 wells (about 3
percent), and less than 0.5 percent of the samples collected (25 of 6,403).
Non-community water supply wells - Detections were found in 87 of the wells that were
operational during this time - which ranged between 364 and 500 wells. Detections were
reported in approximately 3.9 percent of the samples collected (124 of 3,191).
Private wells - Detections were found in 232 of the 6,042 private wells sampled, or 3.8
percent. The frequency of detection was about 4 percent (332 of 8,492 samples collected).
These results underscore the potential vulnerability of shallow water supplies to PPCP
contamination.
SCDHS should continue to:
· Increase the number of sample analyses available from the PEHL to analyze each
community supply well as part of annual facility inspections, and the majority of non-
community and the private drinking water samples collected;
· To the extent staffing permits, explore expansion of existing analytical methods to increase
the number of PPCPs analyzed, particularly focusing on those identified on the CCL 3:17
Alpha-estradiol, 2-Methoxyethanol, 2-Propen-l-01, Acetaldehyde, Butylated
hydroxyanisole, Equilenin, Equilin, Erthromycin, Estradiol, Estriol, Estrone, Ethinyl
Estrodiol, Mestranol, Norethindrone, and Quinolin;
Mr. Martin Trent
January 7, 2010, revised February 4, 2010
Page 38
· Conduct a targeted monitoring program, possibly focusing on wells downgradient of
laundromats, hospitals and nursing homes, using a similar approach as developed for the
Pesticides Monitoring Program.
Based upon the thousands of PPCPs released into the environment on a daily basis and the
uncertainty as to which, ff any, have potential impacts upon human health, the very low
levels of detection required to identify the presence of PPCPs, and the challenge of
developing analytical methods that can cost effectively detect these parameters and their
metabohtes in complex mixtures, continued monitoring and review of the latest findings in
other jurisdictions is also recommended at this time. Targeted analytes can be identified
based upon information compiled from USGS and other agencies such as part of the
NYSDOH and NYSDEC workplan to identify the presence of PPCPs in the New York City
watershed (which will screen for PPCPs that are known to be consumed in large quantities,
are poorly metabolized, have Iow rates of degradation, that have estabhshed analytical
methodologies, and/or that have been detected during other environmental studies), and the
results of the recently completed USGS reconnaissance survey. As most of Suffolk County is
not served by sanitary sewers discharging to coastal waters, the sampling should be focused
in densely developed unsewered areas where the contaminants of concern would be most
likely to be detected, if sufficient quantities are present. As news reports on the potential
presence of PPCPs in the environment are released weekly, SCDHS monitoring data is
extremely useful in putting the potential presence of PPCPs in Long Island groundwater in
perspective -- to help to estimate the quantity of PPCPs being released to the groundwater, as
well as the quantities that persist to reach supply wells at detectable levels.
5.2.1.5 Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde is not currently regulated by the EPA, NYSDOH, or SCDHS and has been
included on the EPA's CCL 3. SCDHS should continue targeted formaldehyde monitoring,
particularly at wells located in unsewered areas downgradient of funeral homes, and in areas
downgradient of cemeteries.
5.2.1.6 Tert-butyl alcohol (TBA)
MTBE, which has been used as an octane enhancer and oxygen supplier for gasoline since the
late 1970s, has been detected in approximately 16 percent of raw groundwater samples
collected from all supply wells in Suffolk County since 2005. TBA, although often used itself
as an octane enhancer and a possible co-contaminant with MTBE, may also be produced from
the biological de-methylation of MTBE under aerobic conditions.
TBA is extremely soluble, does not sorb onto carbon, and is not highly volatile. SCWA has
been sampling for TBA at all supply wells since 2002 and has only detected TBA in one upper
glacial supply well. The raw water sample from this well showed 5.9 ppb of TBA in August
2005 and the well was removed from service (SCWA, 2006). The corresponding MTBE
concentration was 0.8 ppb.
Mr. Martin Trent
January 7, 2010, revised February 4, 2010
Page 39
Since TBA is toxic, is highly mobile in groundwater and is difficult to treat, it is recommended
that quarterly sampling for TBA be continued by SCWA and should be conducted by other
purveyors, at least at those wells that show detectable MTBE or have gasoFme facilities in
their contributing areas.
5.2.1.7 1,4-dioxane
1,4-dioxane, commonly referred to as dioxane, has been used as a stabilizer in chlorinated
solvents since the 1960s, and is also found in shampoos, liquid/dishwashing soap, and other
cosmetic products. Nationwide, dioxane is being detected in groundwater more frequently,
particularly in association with TCA plumes. It is reportedly very mobile, and not highly
volatile. 1,4-dioxane is regulated as an UOC by NYSDOH, with an MCL of 50 gg/L.
Since 2003, SCWA has sampled for 1,4-dioxane at selected community supply wells that
contain VOCs. Between 2004 and 2006, dioxane was detected in 18 of the 39 wells sampled; afl
also contained concentrations of TCA (SCWA, unpublished water quality data). The
maximum concentration of dioxane was 3.5 [tg/L, well below the New York State
"unspecified organic" drinking water standard of 50 p.g/L but slightly greater than the
Action Level of 3 Ixg/L established by California, and the Guidance Level of 3 gg/L
established by Massachusetts and Michigan..
As 1,4-dioxane is classified as a probable human carcinogen by USEPA and is included on the
CCL 3, targeted sampling for dioxane should continue, in particular focusing on wells with
TCA detections.
5.2.1.8 Glycolic Compounds
Glycols, anti-freeze and de-icing chemicals are primarily composed of ethylene glycol and/or
propylene glycol. Ethylene glycol is a colorless, odorless liquid that has been included on
EPA's CCL 3; it is more toxic than propylene glycol.
The release of ethylene glycol into the environment is widespread, primarily due to the
improper disposal of antifreeze and de-icing fluids. Although it readily leaches to
groundwater, it readily biodegrades and has a half-life in groundwater of between 2 and 48
days (NHDES, 2006). Ethylene glycol has a low vapor pressure, is miscible in groundwater
and is not expected to volatilize. There is a higher risk of release of ethylene glycol and
propylene glycol to surface water bodies due to storm water runoff from aircraft de-icing
activities.
Although New York State has not established specific health advisories or a drinking water
standard for ethylene glycol, applying the "unspecified organic contaminant" classification to
ethylene glycol assigns a maximum contaminant level of 50 gg/L. An MCL of 1 mg/L has
been established for propylene glycol. Both ethylene glycol and propylene glycol are
monitored by SCWA and were not detected in any sample collected in 2005. Since sampling
Mr. Martin Trent
January 7, 2010, revised February 4, 2010
Page 40
for glycolic compounds is currently being conducted by SCWA, no additional surveillance
monitoring is recommended at this time. Should ethylene glycol and/or propylene glycol be
detected, sampling should extend to other large purveyors, particularly at shallow wells with
relatively short travel times.
5.2.1.9 Propane
SCDHS has detected propane, a commonly used fuel, in one private well, two non-
community wells and one community supply well since 2004, at levels ranging from 2 to 48
pg/L. In addition, propane concentrations at levels up to 3,000 pg/L were identified within a
plume that may have originated from one of several large abandoned underground propane
tanks. Despite its wide use, propane has not been widely detected throughout the County. It
is highly degradable, and the need for increased monitoring has not been identified at this
time, except where the source of observed detections has not been identified.
6.0 Conclusions and Recommendations
The Suffolk County water supply is monitored to assess water quality by both the SCDHS,
and by water suppliers themselves. Public health is protected by monitoring that is
conducted for more parameters and at a greater frequency than is required by federal and
state requirements, in most cases. SCDHS continues to offer a multi-tiered monitoring
program that includes the County's aquifer system or source water, community, non-
community and private supply wells, and targeted monitoring investigations.
Because SCDHS already has an established network of monitoring wells, the PEHL, and a
historical database, it would be prudent to obtain the resources necessary to utilize at least
some subset of the established network of wells and analytical capabilities to monitor for
selected parameters. This information would provide an "early warning system" for drinking
water supplies, and would also be useful in helping to identify those source water protection
activities that are most successful in protecting the groundwater supply. In addition, water
levels should continue to be monitored, but on a more frequent basis at a sub-set of the
existing monitoring wells to support water resources management and provide information
necessary for proper design and construction of on-site wastewater treatment systems.
Two additional categories of recommendations are included here; the first identifies
additional parameters for which routine monitoring is not currently required; the second
identifies the resources needed by the County's Division of Environmental Quality and the
PEHL to continue to respond to monitoring needs within the framework of the increasingly
demanding regulatory requirements.
Mr. Martin Trent
January 7, 2010, revised February 4, 2010
Page 41
6.1 Parameters of Concern
Collection of occurrence data supports the development of new MCLs, and helps to protect
public health. The following paragraphs identify contaminants of potential concern for which
additional occurrence data would be useful.
As mentioned previously in this, and other task memoranda, the SCDHS Pesticide
Monitoring Program has developed an unsurpassed accounting of pesticide-related chemicals
in drinking water wells and groundwater. Due to the on-going detections of pesticides in
County groundwater, SCDHS should continue to monitor for pesticides, particularly for those
that have been identified as persistent in the environment (e.g., aldicarb sulfoxide and
aldicarb sulfone, metolachlor and alachlor metabolites) and for those that the County has
detected in levels above the UOC standard (e.g., the dacthal degradate tetrachioroterephthalic
acid). Based on the County's previous work, future monitoring for the pesticides used for
agricultural applications (e.g., aldicarb, metolcahlor, alachlor, and their degradates and
metabolities) can be focused in the east end agricultural areas. Monitoring for those pesticide
products that are used more widely throughout the County, either at residences, golf courses,
utility and/or road right of ways, such as imidacloprid, DEET or simazine, should be
continued throughout the County.
SCDHS should continue to address PPCPs, including phenolic surfactants, via a plan that
includes:
· Increasing the number of sample analyses available from the PEHL to analyze each
community supply well as part of annual facility inspections, and non-community and the
private drinking water samples collected;
· To the extent staffing permits, explore expansion of existing analytical methods to increase
the number of PPCPs analyzed, particularly focusing on those identified on the CCL 3:17
Alpha-estradiol, 2-Methoxyethanol, 2-Propen-l-01, Acetaldehyde, Butylated
hydroxyanisole, Equilenin, Equilin, Erthromycin, Estradiol, Estriol, Estrone, Ethinyl
Estrodiol, Mestranol, Norethindrone, and Quinolin;
· Conduct a targeted monitoring program, possibly focusing on wells downgradient of
laundromats, hospitals and nursing homes, using a similar approach as developed for the
Pesticides Monitoring Program.
Field and laboratory initiatives should continue to be guided by on-going occurrence and
health effect studies and research reported in the literature.
Because formaldehyde does not appear to be a major concern in Suffolk County, and because
case studies around the world have shown it to degrade very rapidly in the subsurface,
County-wide monitoring is not indicated at this time. However, targeted monitoring in wells
Mr. Martin Trent
January 7, 2010, revised February 4, 2010
Page 42
downgradient of cemeteries and funeral homes in unsewered areas could help to develop an
occurrence monitoring database, given the contaminant's identification on the EPA CCL 3.
Since TBA is toxic, is highly mobile in groundwater and is difficult to treat, it is recommended
that quarterly sampling for TBA be continued by SCWA and should be conducted by other
purveyors, at least at those wells that show detectable MTBE or have gasoline facilities in
then contributing areas.
As 1A-dioxane is classified as a probable human carcinogen by USEPA and is included on the
CCL 3, targeted sampling for dioxane should continue, in particular focusing on wells with
TCA detections. Initial sampling by purveyors who do not currently sample for dioxane
should coordinate with SCDHS to determine which set of wells would be appropriate.
Both ethylene glycol and propylene glycol are monitored by SCWA and were not detected in
any sample collected in 2005. Since sampling for glycolic compounds is currently being
conducted by SCWA, no additional surveillance monitoring is recommended at this time.
Should ethylene glycol and/or propylene glycol be detected, sampling should extend to other
large purveyors, particularly at shallow wells with relatively short travel times.
Suffolk County should begin to collect occurrence data for ethanol. Monitoring for ethanol
may be required should E85 fuel be used in wider distribution in the future. Ethanol has a
very high solubility and the lack of retardation or volatilization in groundwater make ethanol
a concern.
6.2 Laboratory Staffing
There is a critical need to increase technical staff at the County's Public and Environmental
Health Laboratory, due to increased workload, and staff loss as a result of retirements, and
inequitable pay scales. In recent years, the number of analytes evaluated for each drinking
water sample has more than doubled. Because laboratory staff must be certified on a method-
specific basis, it has compromised the PEHL's flexibility and productivity. To respond to the
current workload, staffing at the PEHL should be restored by addition of several analyst
positions.
6.3 Additional Field Equipment and Staffing
Similarly, the Office of Water Resources staffing levels and basic equipment needs should be
restored to continue critical groundwater contaminant investigations at hazardous waste
sites, superfund sites and manufactured gas plants; to perform PPCP investigations at
laundromats, nursing homes and hospitals; to continue pesticide monitoring programs, and
to restore general groundwater quality and water level information for trend analyses and to
support the construction industry.
Mr. Martin Trent
January 7, 2010, revised February 4, 2010
Page 43
7.0 References
Abbene, I.J., S.C. Fisher, and S.A. Terracciano. 2005. Concentrations of Insecticides in Selected
Water Bodies in Suffolk County, New York, Before and After Mosquito Spraying, 2002-04.
U.S. Geological Survey Open File Report 2005-1384.
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR). 2006. Website:
http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/
Ashe C. 2002. Bad Medicine: Active Pharmaceutical Compounds in Water
CDM Viewpoint, June 2002.
Association of American State Geologists, Ground Water Protection Council, Interstate
Council on Water Policy, and National Ground Water Association, 2007. State/Regional
Ground Water Monitoring Networks - Results of 2007 Survey.
Benotti, M.J. and B.J. Brownawell. 2005. Occurrence and Fate of High Volume
Pharmaceuticals in Wastewater Impacted Environments. USEPA Workshop on
Pharmaceuticals in the Environment, Las Vegas, August 23-25, 2005.
Brown, C.J., D.A. Waiter, and S. Colabufo, 1999. Iron in the Aquifer System of Suffolk
County, New York, 1990-98, U.S. Geological Survey Water Resources Investigations Report
99-4126.
CDM and USEPA. 1992. Guidelines for Water Reuse. USEPA/625/R-92/004.
Camp Dresser & McKee (CDM), 2003. Long Island Source Water Assessment Program
(SWAP), Task 2A Report, Public Water Supply Data, New York State Department of Health.
Camp Dresser & McKee (CDM), 2003. (Long Island Source Water Assessment Program, Task
lC Report, Groundwater Quality and Monitoring Programs, New York State Department of
Health.
Camp Dresser & McKee (CDM), 2003. Long Island Source Water Assessment Summary
Report, New York State Department of Health.
Camp Dresser & McKee (CDM), 2008. Comprehensive Water Resources Management Plan,
Task 7.4 Memorandum, Non-Community Supplies Suffolk County Department of Health
Services.
Camp Dresser & McKee (CDM), 2009. Comprehensive Water Resources Management Plan,
Task 7.1 Memorandum, Drinking Water Standards, Suffolk County Department of Health
Services.
Mr. Martin Trent
January 7, 2010, revised February 4, 2010
Page 44
Camp Dresser & McKee (CDM), 2009 Comprehensive Water Resources Management Plan,
Task 4.1 Memorandum, Groundwater Quality, Suffolk County Department of Health
Services
Camp Dresser & McKee (CDM), 2009 Comprehensive Water Resources Management Plan,
Suffolk County Department of Health Services
Camp Dresser & McKee (CDM), 2009 Comprehensive Water Resources Management Plan,
Task 7.5 Memorandum, Private Water Supply Wells, Suffolk County Department of Health
Services.
Dvirka and Bartilucci and Malcolm Pirnie, Inc, January 1987, Suffolk County
Comprehensive Water Resources Management Plan.
Global Water Research Coalition (GWRC). 2003. Endocrine Disrupting Compounds - Priority
List of EDCs. September 2003. Available from AWWARF.
Global Water Research Coalition (GWRC). 2004. Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products
in the Water Cycle - An International Review. March 2004. Available from AWWARF.
National Ground Water Association. 2006. Ground Water Level and Quantity Monitoring.
NGWA White Paper.
New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH). 2007. Part 5, Subpart 5-1 Public Water
Systems, Appendix 5-B: Standards for Water Wells.
New York State Department of Health ~ NYSDOH), 2008. DrinkIng Water Infrastructure
Needs of New York State.
Phillips P.J., D.A. Eckhardt, S.A. Terracciano, and L. Rosenmarm. 1999. Pesticides and Their
Metabolites in Wells of Suffolk County, New York, 1999, U.S. Geological Survey Water-
Resources Investigations Report 99-4095.
Riverhead Water District. 2008 Annual Water Supply Statement/Consumer Confidence
Report and Supplemental Data Package, May 2009.
Snyder, S.A, J. Leising, P. Westerhoff, Y. Yoon, H. Mash, and B. Vanderford. 2004. Biological
and Physical Attenuation of EndocrIne Disruptors and Pharmaceuticals: Implications for
Water Reuse. Ground Water Monitoring and Remediation, v. 24, no. 2: 108-118.
Subcommittee on Ground Water of the Federal Advisory Committee on Water Information.
2009. A National Framework for Ground-Water Monitoring in the United States.
Mr. Martin Trent
January 7, 2010, revised February 4, 2010
Page 45
Suffolk County Department of Health Services (SCDHS), 1988, Status Pesticide Sampling
Programs 1980-1988.
Suffolk County Department of Health Services (SCDHS), 2001, Summary of Perchlorate
Monitoring of Water Supplies in Suffolk County, NY.
Suffolk County Department of Health Services (SCDHS, 1999 and 2003, Water Quality
Monitoring Program to Detect Pesticide Contamination in Groundwaters of Nassau and
Suffolk Counties NY
Suffolk County Department of Health Services (SCDHS), 2007, Water Quality Monitoring for
Pesticides in Nassau & Suffolk County, Suffolk County Community Public Water Supply
Monitoring 1997-2006, submitted to NYSDEC, Division of Solid & Hazardous Materials, 2007.
Suffolk County Department of Health Services (SCDHS), 2007, Water Quality Monitoring for
Pesticides in Nassau & Suffolk County, Golf Course Monitoring Draft Report 2003 - 2006,
submitted to NYSDEC, Division of Solid & Hazardous Materials, 2007.
Suffolk County Department of Health Services (SCDHS), 2007, Water Quality Monitoring for
Pesticides in Nassau & Suffolk County, Vineyard Monitoring Draft Report 2003 - 2006,
submitted to NYSDEC, Division of Solid & Hazardous Materials, 2007.
Suffolk County Department of Health Services (SCDHS), undated, State of the Aquifer, An
Evaluation of Private Well Monitoring Data 1997 - 2006, presentation by Martin Trent and
Andrew Rapiejko at the Long Island Groundwater Symposium
Suffolk County Department of Health Services (SCDHS), personal communication with Mr.
Andrew Rapiejko, January 2010
Suffolk County Water Authority (SCWA), 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006, 2005 Annual Drinking Water
Quality Reports. http://www.scwa.com/.
Suffolk County Water Authority (SCWA), personal communication with Mr. Steven
Colabufo, January 2010
Swartz, C.H., S. Reddy, M.J. Benotti, H. Yin, L.B. Barber, B.J. Brownawell, and R.A. Rudel.
2006. Steriod Estrogens, Nonylphenol Ethoxylate Metabolites, and other Wastewater
Contaminants in Groundwater Affected by a Residential Septic System on Cape Cod, MA.
Environmental Science and Technology, vol. 40: 4894-4902.
United States Department of Health and Human Services (USHHS). 1999. Toxicological
Profile for Formaldehyde. July 1999.
Mr. Martin Trent
January 7, 2010, revised February 4, 2010
Page 46
United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA). 1999. Integrated Risk htformation
S?tem (IRIS) on Eth3/lene Gl!/col. National Center for Environmental Assessment, Office of
Research and Development, Washington, DC. 1999.
United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA). 2001. Unregulated Contaminant
Monitoring Regulation: Monitoring for List I Contaminants by Large Public Water Systems.
USEPA Fact Sheet: USEPA 815-F-01-003, January 2001.
United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA). 2002. Perchlorate Environmental
Contamination: Toxicological Review and Risk Characterization. External Review Draft,
NCEA-1-0503, January 16, 2002
United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA). 2004. 2004 Edition of the Drinking
Water Standards and Health Advisories.
http://www. USEPA. gov / wa terscience / criteria / drinking/dwstandards.pdf
United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA). 2005. Integrated Risk Information
System: Perchlorate and Perchlorate Salts. http://www. USEPA.gov / iris / subst/1007.htm
United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA). 2005. Occurrence database for
UCMR List I and 2 Contaminants; Updated as of November 2005.
http: / / www. USEPA.gov / safewater / ucmr / data.htini
United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA). 2006. Integrated Risk Information
System (IRIS). http://www. USEPA.gov/lRIS/index.html.
United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA). 2006. Aquatic Life Criteria for
Nonylphenol. http://www. USEPA.gov / waterscience / criteria/nonylphenol /
United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), 2006, DrinkIng Water Standards
website, htt-p: / / ww~'w.epa.gov / safe wa ter / mcl.h hnf.
United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA). 2007. Unregulated Contaminant
MonitorIng Program. http: / / www. epa. gov / safewater / ucmr / ind ex.h tml.
United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), 2009. Drinking Water Contaminant
Candidate List and Regulatory Determinations;
http://www.epa.gov/safewa ter/ccl/ccl3.html.
United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), 2009. Fact Sheet: Final Third
Drinking Water Contaminant Candidate List (CCL 3); http://www.epa.gov/safewater.
Mr. Mart~n Trent
January 7, 2010, revised February 4, 2010
Page 47
United States Geological Survey, 2000. Water Quality in the Long Island-New Jersey
Coastal Drainages, New York and New Jersey, 1996-1998.
United States Geological Survey (USGS). 2006. Pesticides Ln the Nation's Streams and Ground
Water, 1992-2001. U.S. Geological Survey Circular 1291.
Comprehensive esources
ement Plan for Suffolk
Memorandum
From:
Date:
Subject:
Martin Trent
CDM
October 6, 2009, revised October 30, 2009
Suffolk County Comprehensive Water Resources Management Plan
Task 15 - Groundwater Contributing Area Assessment
1.0 Introduction
An understanding of the land uses within the groundwater contributing areas to streams and
embayments is critical to effectively evaluate management options aimed at improving water
quality. Groundwater contributing areas to a stream or embayment may be similar, but not
necessarily identical to the surface watershed. The Suffolk County regional groundwater flow
model and east-end models (CDM, 2003) have shown to be valuable tools to define
groundwater contributing
areas and estimate the time of
travel to discharge locations.
Building on this ability, the
models were improved and
used to predict contributing
areas to all streams and
coastal waterbodies in Suffolk
County, with special focus on
the streams listed in Table 1.
This memorandum presents
the approach and results of
this effort.
Table 1
Evaluated Streams
Nissequogue River
Peconic River
Carmans River
Connetquot River
Carlls River
Santapogue River
Sampawams River
Champlins Creek
Brushes Creek
Meetinghouse Creek
Terrys Creek
SawmillCreek
2.0 Approach Forge River
The regional groundwater Mattituck Creek
flow model grid, which
encompasses all of the streams listed in Table 1, was enhanced by increasing the discretization
adjacent to all streams and along the coastline. Node spacing, which originally ranged from
approximately 1,000 to 3,000 feet in the coastal areas, was reduceded to approximately 500 to
1,000 feet. The number of nodes in the regional flow model grid increased from 3,560 to 5,581.
Mr. Martin Trent
October 30, 2009
Page 2
Figure 1 depicts the changes to the grid along a portion of the south shore. Similar
adjustments were made along the north shore to help improve the model's ability to delineate
contributing zones to embayments. Because node spacing of the three east end models was
already less than 1,000 feet in most areas, no additional discretization was added.
Updated boundary conditions (documented in the Task 4.4 Memorandum) and future water
supply pumping rates (documented in the Task 5.5 Memorandum) were incorporated into
each model. Recharge from precipitation was assigned based on long-term average
conditions.
The flow and transport code DYNTRACK was then used to delineate groundwater
contributing areas to each stream and embayment for 2 year, 5 year, 10 year, 25 year, and 50
year travel times. The fime of travel estimates are based on advection only and do not take
into account retardation, decay, or other factors which could slow the movement of a
contaminant.
As noted above, the model-estimated contributing areas shown are based on projected future
average pumping rates for public supply wells and long term average rates of precipitation
and recharge. Simulated stream baseflows and contributing areas can be sensitive to the
specified streambed elevations. Where more refined survey measurements were not
available, streambed elevations at model nodes spaced between 500 and 1000 feet were
assigned based upon published USGS values. Simulated contributed areas may also be
sensitive to water supply pumping rates at nearby supply wells.
For planning and management purposes, stream channels depicted as water bodies from the
base maps should be considered as being a part of and included within the modeled
groundwater contributing areas. In cases of intermittent flow of headwaters (e.g., where
groundwater contribution to streamflow only occurs during periods of high precipitation
and/or recharge), a reasonable order-of-magnitude estimate of groundwater-contributing
area would typically include only areas within a few hundred feet of the stream channel.
Where more refined delineations of maximum contributing areas are desired for a specific
watershed or planning/management project, site-specific land surface and streambed
elevations for the stream and headwaters region would be required. These delineations
would also require recalibration of the groundwater model to confirm that the simulated
stream baseflows and water levels continued to represent observed baseflows and water
levels. The revised model could then be used to estimate the maximum contributing area
based on conditions of high precipitation/recharge and reduced water supply pumping.
In some cases, intermittent streamflow near the headwaters may also be being with surface
runoff, stormwater discharges or sewage treatment plant discharge, e.g. at the Peconic River,
rather than as contributed by groundwater flow.
Mr. Martin Trent
October 30, 2009
Page 3
2.0 Results
DYNTRACK output files were brought into GIS to create shapefiles that facilitate analysis of
the contributing areas. Several fields were included in the shapefiles to enhance their
usability. These include: (1) a "waterbody' field that allows the contributing areas to be
visualized and plotted for individual streams and embayments; and (2) a "time of travel"
field that allows visualization and analysis of unique time of travel zones.
An overview of the contributing areas to all streams and embayments are shown in Figure 2
for the main body; Figure 3 for the North Fork; Figure 4 for the South Fork; and Figure 5 for
Shelter Island. Contributing areas to major streams are depicted in Figures 6 through 9; FANS
streams are shown in Figures 10 through 13; streams impacted by duck farms, golf courses
and development are shown in Figures 14 through 17; and streams with multiple causes of
eutrophication are shown in Figures 18 and 19.
The model predicted groundwater contributing areas to the streams were also superimposed
on the lm~d use classifications. The land uses within each time of travel zone are depicted for
major streams in Figures 20 through 23; FANS streams in Figures 24 through 27; streams
impacted by duck farms, golf courses and development in Figures 28 through 31; and streams
with multiple causes of eutrophication in Figures 32 and 33. The number of acres and percent
of each land use class within the zones representing 2 year, 5 year, 10 year, 25 year, and 50
year travel times are provided for each stream in Tables 2 through 15.
Table 16 depicts the relative contribution of baseflow from the five different time of travel
zones for each stream. For the 14 streams examined, between 52 and 80 percent of the
baseflow originates from groundwater that has a travel time of less than 10 years. These
estimates of the contribution of baseflow do not account for model-assigned variations in
recharge rates within the time-of-travel/contributing area zones to each stream.
The same assessment of the relative contribution of baseflow was conducted for Carman's
River taking into account the model-assigned variation in recharge over the contributing area
to the stream. The results of this analysis are included in Table 17. Only slight differences
occurred (less than 3 percent) when taking into account the model-assigned variation in
recharge.
Mr. MarQn Trent
October 30, 2009
Page 4
Table 2
Analysis of Land Use within Nissequogue River Groundwater Contributing Areas
Medium Density Residential
Open Space
Low Density Residential
Institutional
Industrial
Vacant
Transportation
Commercial
High Density Residential
Agricultural
Jtilities
1,323
1,666
1,123
294
8
162
94
101
72
44
30
9
462
311
224
125
3
58
20
50
44
24
8
0
424
91
20
48
0
15
21
8
12
0
6
0
392
35
19
14
112
23
60
26
4
0
9
0
334
75
116
12
210
32
38
27
9
5
3
0
2,935
2,178
1,503
494
333
290
234
212
141
73
56
9
4,926 1,330 645 695 861 8,458
Medium Density Residential
Open Space
Low Density Residential
Institutional
Industrial
Vacant
Yransportation
Commercial
High Density Residential
Agricultural
Utilities
Waste Disposal
27%
34%
23%
6%
<1%
3%
2%
2%
1%
1%
1%
<1%
35% 66%
23% 14%
17% 3%
9% 7%
<1% 0%
4% 2%
2% 3%
4% 1%
3% 2%
2% 0%
<1% <1%
0% 0%
56%
5%
3%
2%
16%
3%
9%
4%
<1%
O%
<1%
O%
39%
9%
14%
1%
24%
4%
4%
3%
1%
<1%
<1%
0%
35%
26%
18%
6%
4%
3%
3%
3%
2%
<1%
<1%
<1%
Mr. Martin Trent
October 30, 2009
Page 5
Table 3
Analysis of Land Use within Peconic River Groundwater Contributing Areas
Open Space
Agricultural
Transportation
Vacant
Commercial
Institutional
Medium Density Residential
Industrial
Low Density Residential
High Density Residential
Utilities
2,121
138
248
246
188
186
171
16
165
92
68
0.1
3,638
753
58
122
156
98
59
110
18
41
102
21
0.1
926
168
163
128
169
51
109
32
25
83
15
0.5
1,484
343
168
152
94
164
80
144
41
28
8
0.1
994
89
45
23
6
78
47
151
50
1
1
0
6,278
795
746
705
555
538
516
360
322
306
113
1
1,537 1,869 2,706 1,484 11,235
Open Space
Agricultural
Transportation
Vacant
Commercial
Institutional
Medium Density Residential
Industrial
Low Density Residential
High Density Residential
Utilities
~Vaste Disposal
58%
4%
7%
7%
S%
5%
5%
<1%
5%
3%
2%
<1%
49%
4%
8%
10%
6%
4%
7%
1%
3%
7%
1%
<1%
5O%
9%
9%
7%
9%
3%
6%
2%
4%
1%
<1%
55%
13%
6%
6%
3%
6%
3%
5%
2%
1%
<1%
<1%
67% 56%
6% 7%
3% 7%
2% 6%
0% 5%
5% 5%
3% 5%
10% 3%
3% 3%
<1% 3%
<1% 1%
0% <1%
Mr. Martin Trent
October 30, 2009
Page 6
Table 4
Analysis of Land Use within Carmans River Groundwater Contributing Areas
Open Space
Medium Density Residential
Vacant
Institutional
Low Density Residential
Agricultural
Transportation
Industrial
Commercial
Waste Disposal
Utilities
High Density Residential
2,782
530
220
110
343
108
50
33
14
0
18
8
848
487
341
85
131
63
33
58
18
11
12
15
729
565
431
66
156
235
69
41
72
63
11
15
1,109
652
641
770
203
147
200
95
65
116
19
15
449
376
536
487
127
164
105
65
37
1
62
11
5,917
2,608
2,168
1,519
960
717
457
291
205
190
122
64
rotal (Acres) 4,216 2,101 2,452 4,030 2,421 15,219
:3pen Space
Medium Density Residential
Vacant
Institutional
Low Density Residential
6,gricultural
Yransportation
Industrial
Commercial
Waste Disposal
Utilities
il~h Density Residential
66%
13%
5%
3%
8%
3%
1%
<1%
<1%
0%
<1%
<1%
40%
23%
16%
4%
6%
3%
2%
3%
<1%
<1%
<1%
<1%
30%
23%
18%
3%
6%
10%
3%
2%
3%
3%
<1%
<1%
28% 19%
16% 16%
16% 22%
19% 20%
5% 5%
4% 7%
5% 4%
2% 3%
2% 2%
3% <1%
<1% 2.6%
<1% <1%
39%
17%
14%
10%
6%
5%
3%
2%
1%
1%
<1%
<1%
O:lSufmemos%Task 15%Task 15 Memo_r3 Qocx
Mr. Martin Trent
October 30, 2009
Page 7
Table 5
Analysis of Land Use within Connetquot River Groundwater Contributing Areas
Open Space
Medium Density Res
Jndustrial
institutional
High Density Res
2ommercial
l'ransportatlon
Low Density Res
Vacant
Utilities
~,gricultural
Waste Disposal
Total (Acres)
2,120
201
3
13
12
31
59
101
13
7
1
1
2,564
891
219
4
14
38
76
38
58
54
19
2
0
1,414
930
427
53
30
120
17
57
46
35
3
3
0
1,722
533
1,010
408
186
139
144
136
211
980
138
207
90
104
74
65 27
57 64
10 27
0 4
0 0
2,687 1,926
4,685
2,836
607
451
400
371
364
297
224
67
11
1
10,312
Open Space
Medium Density Res
Industrial
Institutional
High Oensity Res
Commercial
Transportation
Low Density Res
Vacant
Utilities
Agricultural
Waste Disposal
83% 63%
8% 15%
0% 0%
1% 1%
0% 3%
1% 5%
2% 3%
4% 4%
1% 4%
<1% 1%
<1% <1%
<1% 0%
54%
25%
3%
2%
7%
1%
3%
3%
2%
<1%
<1%
0% i
20%
38%
15%
7%
5%
5%
5%
2%
2%
<1%
0%
0%
11% 45%
51% 28%
7% 6%
11% 4%
5% 4%
5% 4%
4% 4%
1% 3%
3% 2%
<1% <1%
<1% <1%
0% <1%
Mr. Martin Trent
October 30, 2009
Page 8
Table 6
Analysis of Land Use within Carlls River Groundwater Contributing Areas
Medium Density Res
High Density Res
Open Space
Institutional
Industrial
Commercial
Vacant
Transportation
Low Density Res
Utilities
629
430
478
93
34
68
42
45
27
17
291
296
102
72
20
44
31
19
3
4
209
183
55
25
46
20
28
25
2
2
373
302
35
61
49
42
33
40
4
5
138
41
16
33
60
19
11
12
2
1,641
1,252
687
284
209
192
146
140
38
29
Total(Acres) 1,864 884 595 943 332 4,618
Medium Density Res
High Density Res
:)pen Space
Institutional
Industrial
Commercial
Vacant
Yransportation
Low Density Res
Utilities
34% 33%
23% 33%
26% 12%
5% 8%
2% 2%
4% 5%
2% 4%
2% 2%
1.5% <1%
<1% <1%
35%
31%
9%
4%
8%
3%
5%
4%
<3.%
<1%
40%
32%
4%
6%
5%
4%
3%
4%
<1%
<1%
42%
12%
5%
10%
18%
6%
3%
4%
<1%
<1%
36%
27%
15%
6%
5%
4%
3%
3%
<1%
<1%
Mr. Martin Trent
October 30, 2009
Page 9
Table 7
Analysis of Land Use within Santapogue Creek Groundwater Contributing Areas
High Density Residential
Medium Density Residential
Institutional
Open Space
Commercial
Industrial
Utilities
Transportation
Vacant
Low Density Residential
Total(Acres)
176
207
39
54
32
45
32
15
23
1
624
51
31
28
28
4
11
9
3
0
181
108
46
15
1
20
15
0.2
5
4
2
216
83
98
23
1
22
4
1
2
4
0
238
18
30
2
3
1
0
1
9
0
0
64
436
411
108
87
80
79
45
40
34
3
1,323
High Density Residential
Medium Density Residential
Institutional
Open Space
Commercial
Industrial
Jtilities
l'ransportation
Vacant
Low Density Residential
28%
33%
6%
9%
5%
7%
5%
2%
4%
<1%
28%
17%
16%
15%
2%
8%
6%
5%
2%
0%
50%
21%
7%
<1%
9%
7%
<1%
2%
2%
<1%
35%
41%
10%
<1%
9%
2%
<1%
<1%
2%
0%
27%
46%
4%
5%
2%
0%
2%
14%
<1%
0%
33%
31%
8%
7%
6%
6%
3%
3%
3%
<1%
Mr. Martin Trent
October 30, 2009
Page 10
Table 8
Analysis of Land Use within Sampawams Creek Groundwater Contributing Areas
Medium Density Residential
High Density Residential
Commercial
Transportation
Institutional
Industrial
Open Space
Vacant
Utilities
Low Density Residential
A~ricultural
Total (Acres)
351
239
67
57
18
6
61
13
14
5
0
829
167
121
34
25
20
0.1
13
3
1
1
0
386
133
108
14
35
38
8
4
0
2
0
388
225
135
23
14
36
33
8
12
1
3
0
492
60
27
18
16
15
26
1
3
1
0.4
0.1
167
935
629
186
127
124
104
92
34
18
12
0.1
2,262
Medium Density Residential
High Density Residential
Commercial
Transportation
Institutional
industrial
Open Space
Vacant
Utilities
Low Density Residential
Al~ricultural
42%
29%
8%
7%
2%
<1%
7%
2%
2%
<1%
0%
43%
31%
9%
7%
5%
<1%
3%
<1%
<1%
<1%
0%
34%
28%
11%
4%
9%
10%
2%
1%
0%
<1%
0%
46%
27%
5%
3%
7%
7%
2%
2%
<1%
<1%
0%
36%
16%
11%
10%
9%
16%
<1%
2%
<1%
<1%
<1%
41%
28%
8%
6%
5%
5%
4%
2%
<1%
<1%
<1%
Mr. Mar~ Trent
October 30, 2009
Page 11
Table 9
Analysis of Land Use within Champlins Creek Groundwater Contributing Areas
Medium Density Residential
Institutional
High Density Residential
Transportation
Commercial
Low Density Residential
Industrial
Open Space
Vacant
Utilities
Total(Acres)
574
13.5
80
50
34
54
5
26
3.6
1
955
186
29
39
45
35
7
17
3
9
0.4
371
203
9
16
10
21
3
16
0
7
5
290
301
63
10
52
0
10
5
5
4
0
451
91
25
52
3
3
2
9
9
6
0
199
1,354
241
196
160
93
77
53
44
41
7
2,266
Medium Density Residential
Institutional
High Density Residential
Transportation
Commercial
Commercial
Low Density Residential
Industrial
Open Space
Utilities
60%
12%
8%
5%
4%
6%
1%
3%
2%
<1%
50%
8%
10%
12%
9%
2%
5%
1%
2%
<1%
70%
3%
6%
3%
7%
1%
6%
O%
2%
2%
67%
14%
2%
12%
0%
2%
1%
1%
1%
0%
46%
12%
26%
2%
1%
1%
4%
4%
3%
0%
60%
11%
9%
7%
4%
3%
2%
2%
2%
<1%
Mr. Marlin Trent
October 30, 2009
Page 12
Table 10
Analysis of Land Use within Brushes Creek Groundwater Contributing Areas
Agricultural
Vacant
Low Density Residential
Medium Density Residential
Transportation
Open Space
Unclassified
Institutional
Commercial
High Density Residential
Total (Acres)
96
83.2
30
58
21
2
0
0
1
293
125
11
8
6
11
0.2
0
2
4
0
166
116
19
15
10
6
5
0
7
0
0
178
139
13
32
7
3
7
9
0
0
0
210
33
3
5
3
1
0
3
0
0
0
48
509
130
90
84
43
14
11
9
4
1
895
Agricultural
Vacant
Low Density Residential
Medium Density Residential
Transportation
Open Space
Unclassified
Institutional
Commercial
Hil~h Density Residential
33%
28%
10%
20%
7%
<1%
0%
O%
<1%
<1%
75%
6%
5%
3%
7%
0%
O%
1%
2%
0%
65%
11%
9%
6%
4%
3%
0%
4%
0%
0%
66%
6%
15%
3%
2%
3%
4%
0%
0%
0%
68%
7%
9%
7%
2%
0%
6%
0%
0%
0%
57%
15%
10%
9%
5%
2%
1%
<1%
<1%
<1%
Mr. Marlin Trent
October 30, 2009
Page 13
Table :11
Analysis of Land Use within Meetinghouse Creek Groundwater Contributing Areas
Agricultural
Low Density Residential
Medium Density Residential
Vacant
Open Space
Industrial
Commercial
High Density Residential
Institutional
Unclassified
Total(Acres)
62
45
18
14
12
21
34
9
0.5
1
0
216
34
26
15
30
9
16
l
2
6
2
0
142
58
34
25
21
12
0
0
4
9
4
0
167
47
25
26
20
13
0.4
0
4
0
0
1
137
18
10
5
1
1
2
0
0
0
0
3
39
219
140
90
85
48
39
35
19
15
7
4
7OO
Agricultural
Low Density Residential
Medium Density Residential
Vacant
Transportation
Open Space
Industrial
Commercial
High Density Residential
Institutional
Unclassified
29%
21%
8%
6%
6%
10%
16%
4%
<1%
<1%
0%
24%
18%
11%
21%
7%
11%
<1%
1%
4%
2%
0%
35%
21%
15%
12%
7%
0%
0%
2%
5%
2%
0%
34%
18%
19%
15%
10%
<1%
0%
3%
0%
0%
<1%
45%
25%
14%
3%
3%
5%
0%
0%
0%
0%
7%
31%
20%
13%
12%
7%
6%
5%
3%
2%
1%
<1%
O:~SufmemoslTask 15\Task 15 Memo_r3 doc):
Mr. Martin Trent
October 30, 2009
Page 14
Table 12
Analysis of Land Use within Ter~s Creek Groundwater Contributing Areas
Agricultural
Vacant
Open Space
Medium Density Residenti
Transportation
Low Density Residential
Commercial
Institutional
High Density Residential
Utilities
Industrial
Unclassified
Total(Acres)
3
88
108
83
77
25
21
11
3
1
2
0
422
45
16
20
48
24
16
12
0
13
2
3
0
199
90
29
15
22
14
9
2
6
1
4
0
0
192
94
29
10
8
14
14
9
0.4
0.3
3
0.2
5
188
17
5
9
2
1
5
0
0
1
0
0
42
249
168
163
162
131
65
50
17
17
11
5
5
Agricultural
Vacant
Open Space
Medium Density Resident
Transportation
Low Density Residential
Commercial
Institutional
High Density Residential
Utilities
Industrial
Unclassified
1%
21%
26%
20%
18%
6%
5%
3%
<1%
<1%
<1%
0%
22%
8%
10%
24%
12%
8%
6%
0%
6%
1%
1%
0%
47%
15%
8%
11%
7%
5%
1%
3%
<1%
2%
0%
0%
50%
16%
6%
5%
7%
8%
5%
<1%
<1%
2%
<1%
2%
40%
13%
22%
3%
6%
2%
11%
0%
0%
2%
0%
0%
24%
16%
16%
16%
13%
6%
5%
2%
2%
1%
<1%
<1%
0 %Suflnemos\Task 15\Task 15 Memor3 docx
Mr. Martin Trent
October 30, 2009
Page 15
Table 13
Analysis of Land Use within Sawmill Creek Groundwater Contributing Areas
Vacant
Open Space
Medium Density Residential
Transportation
Low Density Residential
Commercial
High Density Residential
Industrial
Waste Disposal
Institutional
Total(Acres)
82
81
3
6
9
0
8
0
4
1
193
12
44
21
8
6
7
5
0.3
4
0.1
106
27
10
20
13.
13
10
2
0.3
5
1
99
47
17
31
12
7
6
2
12
0
0
133
9
5
2
4
3
4
3
0
0
0
31
176
157
77
40
38
27
20
12
12
3
562
Vacant
Open Space
Medium Density Residential
Transportation
Low Density Residential
Commercial
High Density Residential
Industrial
Waste Disposal
Institutional
42%
42%
2%
3%
4%
0%
4%
0%
2%
<1%
11%
41%
20%
7%
6%
6%
5%
<1%
3%
<1%
27%
10%
20%
11%
14%
10%
2%
<1%
5%
1%
35%
13%
23%
9%
5%
5%
1%
9%
0%
0%
30%
17%
8%
13%
10%
12%
11%
0%
0%
0%
31%
28%
14%
7%
7%
5%
3%
2%
2%
<1%
Mr. Martin Trent
October 30, 2009
Page 16
Table 14
Analysis of Land Use within Forge River Groundwater Contributing Areas
Medium Density Residential
Vacant
Low Density Residential
Open Space
Institutional
High Density Residential
Agricultural
Transportation
Commercial
Industrial
Utilities
Waste Disposal
Total (Acres)
505
161
212
260
82
93
107
26
31
3
2
0
1,482
422
229
133
148
37
79
93
9
36
12
3
0
1,203
418
255
132
162
25
173
87
13
44
21
6
0
1,335
503
674
371
125
167
124
126
96
43
21
3
11
2,267
108
485
136
59
340
34
33
133
28
11
53
0.1
1,421
1,956
1,805
984
755
650
504
447
278
182
68
67
11
7,707
Medium Density Residential
Vacant
Low Density Residential
Open Space
Institutional
-tigh Density Residential
~,gricultural
~ransportation
2ommercial
ndustrial
Jtilities
~Vaste Disposal
34%
11%
14%
18%
6%
6%
7%
2%
2%
<1%
<1%
0%
35%
19%
11%
12%
3%
7%
8%
1%
3%
1%
<1%
0%
31%
19%
10%
12%
2%
13%
7%
1%
3%
2%
<1%
0%
22% 8%
30% 34%
16% 10%
6% 4%
7% 24%
5% 2%
6% 2%
4% 9%
2% 2%
<1% <1%
<1% 4%
2S%
23%
13%
10%
8%
7%
6%
4%
2%
<~.%
<1%
<1%
Mr. Martin Trent
October 30, 2009
Page 17
Table 15
Analysis of Land Use within Mattituck Creek Groundwater Contributing Areas
Agricultural
Vacant
Medium Density Residential
Iow Density Residential
Transportation
Commercial
Institutional
industrial
Open Space
High Density Residential
Utilities
Total(Acres)
8
95
98
80
26
28
0
11
4
!
1
352
19
65
112
49
39
8
2
3
1
2
0
300
83
81
66
75
42
14
6
4
3
1
1
375
252
83
49
91
49
8
18
4
3
1
0.4
558
72
20
0.3
10
4
1
0.1
0
0.4
0
0
107
434
343
326
304
160
58
26
22
12
5
2
1,691
Agricultural
Vacant
Medium Density Residential
Low Density Residential
Transportation
Commercial
Institutional
Industrial
Open Space
High Density Residential
Utilities
2%
27%
28%
23%
7%
8%
0%
3%
1%
<1%
<1%
6%
22%
37%
16%
13%
3%
1%
1%
<1%
<1%
0%
22%
21%
18%
2O%
11%
4%
2%
1%
<1%
<1%
<1%
45%
15%
9%
16%
9%
1%
3%
<1%
<1%
<1%
<1%
67%
18%
<1%
9%
4%
<1%
<1%
0%
<1%
0%
0%
26%
20%
19%
18%
9%
3%
2%
1%
<1%
<1%
<1%
O:lSufTnemos\Task 151Task 15 Memo_r3 dccx
Mr. Martin Trent
October 30, 2009
Page 18
Table 16
Estimated Relative Contribution to Baseflow from Time-of-Travel Zones
Nissequogue River
Peconic River
Carmans River
Connetquot River
Carlls River
Santapogue Creek
Sampawams Creek
Champlins Creek
Brushes Creek
Meetinghouse Creek
Terrys Creek
Sawmill Creek
Forge River
Mattituck Creek
58%
32%
28%
25%
40%
47%
37%
42%
33%
31%
4O%
34%
19%
21%
16%
14%
14%
14%
19%
14%
17%
16%
19%
20%
19%
19%
16%
18%
8%
17%
16%
17%
13%
16%
17%
13%
20%
24%
18%
18%
17%
22%
8%
24%
26%
26%
20%
18%
22%
20%
23%
20%
18%
24%
29%
33%
10%
13%
16%
19%
7%
5%
7%
9%
5%
6%
4%
5%
18%
6%
82%
63%
58%
55%
72%
77%
71%
71%
71%
75%
78%
71%
52%
61%
Notes:
1. This estimate does not account for model-assigned variations in recharge rates within the time-of-
travel/contributing area zones to each stream.
2. Relative percent contributions to baseflow are based on projected future average pumping rates and long term
average precipitation and recharge.
Table 17
Estimated Relative Contribution to Baseflow from Time-of-Travel Zones
for Carmans River, Accounting for Model-Assigned Variation in Recharge
~armans River 25% 14% 17% 28% 16% 56%
Note:
1. Relative percent contributions to basefloware based on projected future average pumping rates and long term
average precipitation and recharge.
180
190
2OO
.... -I-
I ! .... I. I I I I
210 220 230 240 180 19'0 200 210
THOUSANDS OF FEET
Revised Grid
220 230 240
THOUSANDS OE FEET
Comparison of Original and
Revised Main Body Model Grid
Figure ~.
Model estimated contributing areas
are based on projected future average
precipitation and recharge
Groundwater Contributing
Area to Streams and Embayments
Western Suffolk County
Figure 2
Model e~timated contributing areas
are based on projected future average
Groundwater Contributing
Area to Streams and Embayments
North Fork
Figure 3
Model estimated co~:tributing areas
are based on proje£ted future avenge
precipitation and rech~-'.r~e
Groundwater ContributinB
Area to Streams and Embayments
South Fork
Figure 4
Model estimated contributing areas
are based on projected future average
pumping rates and long term average
precipitation and recharge.
Groundwater Contributing Area
to Streams and Embayments
Shelter Island
Figure 5
Model estimated contributing areas
are based on projected future average
pumping rates and long term average
precipitation and recharge,
Groundwater Contributing
Area to Nissequogue River
Figure 6
Model est[mated contributing areas
are based on projected future average
precipitation and rechar~¢e
Groundwater Contributing
Area to Peconic River
Figure 7
Model estimated contributing areas
are based on projected future average
pumping rates and long tefra average
precipitation and recharge.
Groundwater Contributing
Areas to Carmans River
Figure 8
Model estimated contributing areas
are based on projected future average
pumping rates and ~ong term avera§e
precipitation and recharge,
Groundwater Contributing
Area to Connetquot River
Figure 9
Model estimated contributing areas
are based on projected future average
pumping rates and long term avei'age
precipitation and recharge
Groundwater Contributing
Area to Carlls River
Figure 10
Model estimated contributing areas
are based on proiected future average
pumping rates and Jong term average
precipitation and recharge.
Groundwater Contributing
Area to Santapogue Creek
Figure 11
Model estimated contributing areas
are based on proiected future average
pumping rates and long term average
precipitation and recharge
Groundwater Contributing
Area to Sampawams Creel(
Figure 12
Model estimated contributin~ areas
are based on projected future averatge
pumpin~ rates and Ion~ term average
precipitatio~ and ~echar~e.
Groundwater Contributing
Area to Champlins Creek
Figure 13
Water Body
Model estimated contributing areas
are based on projected future average
pumping rates and long term average
precipitation and recharge
Groundwater Contributing
Area to Brushes Creek
Figure 14
Model estimated contributing areas
are based on projected future average
pumping rates and long term average
precipitation and recharge,
Groundwater Contributing
Area to Meetinghouse Creek
Figure 15
Model estimated contlibuting areas
are based on projected future average
pumpirl~ rates and long term average
precipitation and recharge.
Groundwater Contributing
Area to Terrys Creek
Figure 16
Model estimated contributing areas
are based on projected future average
pumping rates and long term average
p~ecipitation and recharge.
Groundwater Contributing
Area to Sawmill Creel<
Figure 17
Model estimated contributing areas
are based on projected future average
pumping rates and long term average
precipitation and recharge,
Groundwater Contributing
Area to Forge River
Figure 18
Model estimated contributing areas
are based on projected future average
pumping rates and long term average
precipitation and recharge
Groundwater Contributing
Area to Mattituck Creek
Figure 19
Medium Density Residential
CommerciaIHigh Density Residential ~ ~ ~ %~ -~'~'~"-~ /~
~ste Handling & Management .,
Sudace ~ters ' ~ ~ ~
Groundwater Contdbudng
-~ , i Model estimated contributing areas
'~': are based on projected future averageArea and Land Use for
pumping rates and long term average
~_~ precipitation and recharge Nissequogue River
Figure 20
Legend
Groundwater Contributing
Area Time of Travel (Years)
~>25 - 50
>t0 - 25
>2 - 5
Land Use Classification
Low Density Residential
Medium Density Residential
High Density Residential
~ Commercial
Agriculture
Vacant
Transportation
Waste Handling & Management
Surface Waters
Model estimated contributing areas
are based on proiected future average
Groundwater Contributing
Area and [.and Use for
Peconic River
Figure 2Z
Legend
Groundwater Contributing
Area T~me of Trave~ (Years)
>10 - 25
>2 - 5
Land Use Classification
Low Dens*ty Residential
Medium Density Residential
High Density Residential
¢ open sma
{~ Agriculture
Vacant
to Carmans River Headwaters
Model estimated contributing areas
are based on projected future average
pumping rates and long term average
precipitation and recharge.
Groundwater Contributing
Areas and Land Use for
Carmans River
Figure 22
~ ~ ~ o~
Groundwater Contributing
Model estimated contdbutir~g areas
are based on projected future average Area and Land Use for
precipitation and recharge. Connetquot River
Figure 23
Legend
Groundwater Contributing
Area ~me of Travel (Years)
~>25 - 50
>10 - 25
>'2 - §
Land Use Classification
Low Density Residential
Medium Density Residential
High Density Residential
~ Commercial
~ Industrial
~ Institutional
Open Space
~ Agriculture
Vacant
Transpodation
Waste Handling & Management
Surface Waters
Model estimated contributing areas
are based on projected future average
pumping rates and ~ong term average
precipitation and recharge.
Groundwater Contributing
Area and Land Use for
Carlls River
Fiaure 24
%
Area Dme of Travet (Years)
High ~nsity Residential
Open Space
~ Ag~,~u~t.~
Vacant
Transpoda on
~ Ut ~ es
~ste Hand ng & Manag
Groundwater Contributing
are based on projected future average Area and La nd Use for
,, pumping ra~es and long term averageSantapogue Creek
~ precipitation and recharge.
Figure 25
Land Use Classification .., ~ ~ ~ ~
u ona ~i
Vaoan .AVE/ > ~ ~C ' ~
~ste Hand ng& Management ~,~ ~ ~; ~I ~, & ~}~
Groundwater Contributing
Model estimated contributing areas
are based on projected futu:e aver¢seArea and Land Use for
pumping rates and long term average Sampawams Creek
precipitation and recharge. Figure 26
Medium De~ity Residential ,?
High ~nsity Residential ¢ %~ ~
Groundwater Contributing
(;are based on projected future avera~e Area and Land Use for
?'~t'% ' pumping rates and long term average Champlins Creek
~ precipitation and recharge Figure 27
Groundwater
uonLr~uuun~
Model estimated contributing areas
are based on proiected future average Area and Land Use for
pumping rates and long term average
Brushes Creek
precipitation and recharge.
Figure 28
Medium Density Residential
' High Density Residential
Commercial
ndus rial
~ste Handling & Management
~odel ~sbmated contributing areas GroundwaterContributing
~ ,.,e based on projected future average Area and La nd U se for
precipitation and recharge Meetinghouse Creek
~ Figure 29
N
Legend
Groundwater Contributing
Area Time of Travel (Years)
~>25 - 50
>10 - 25
Land Use Classification
Low Density Residential
Medium Density Residential
/~ High Density Residential
~ Commercial
~%~;~ Industrial
Open Space
~ Agriculture
Vacant
Transportation
~]~i;~ uti~ies
Waste Handling & Management
Surface Waters
0
'x\
05 1 2
Model estimated contributing areas
are based on projected future average
pumping ra~es and long term average
precipitation and recharge.
Groundwater Contributing
Area and Land Use for
Terrys Creek
Figure 30
Area ~me of Travel (Years)
Land Use Classification
High Density Residential
Open Space
ut*~iti"~
~ste Handling & Management
Groundwater Contributin~
~ Model estimated contributin~ areas
: Area and Land Use for
, pumpin~ rates and Ion~ term average Sawmi~ Creek
~ pr~-dpEa~ion and recharge.
Area ~ime of Yravel (Years) , ~'
L~.~ >25- 50 ,~ -'/'¢~ ~f \ ~
Land Use Classification } ~ ~ ~{
Low,Dens'ty ~es de~ 'a ~, ¢, ~,;
Medium Density Resldenhal '~ . ~} ¢
High Density Residential ~ ~ ¢ ~ ,~;/ i
~Oommerc,,I ~. ~ % ,
~ ns~u,ona~ ~ ~
Vacan / ~:~ ¢~
Transpoda on / ~;;¢ :~;, ;
~ste Handling & Management~ ~~ ¢;;¢
Suda~ ~ ers ~ ~'; ';
G ro u n dwate r Contrib uti n8
'; ;;~; are based on projected future averace Area and Land Use for
h ,;~,,.,,:':,,,' pumpin8 rates and Ion~ ~erm averase For~e River'
~:' precipitation aed recharge.
~ Figure 32
Legend
Groundwater Contributing
Area Time of Travel (Years)
~>25 - 50 >10 - 25
>2 - 5
Land Use Classification
Low Density Residential
Medium Density Residential
High Density Residential
~ Commercial
Open Space
¢, Transportation
Surface Waters
05 1 2
Model estimated contributing areas
are based on projected future average
pumping rates and tong term average
precipitation and recharge.
Groundwater Contributing
Area and Land Use for
Mattituck Creel<
Figure 33
BROWN'S HILLS ESTATES, INC.
P.O. BOX 254
OrieNt, NEW York 11957
BREATHE AND CONNECT
Mr. Russell, members of the Board;
I say, NOT YET.
My name is Venetia Hands and I am a member of the Browns
Hills community in Orient.
I was chosen by the Browns Hills community to lead our
investigation of and response to SCWA's plans to connect their
pipeline in East Marion to the Browns Hill system.
We were unanimous in agreeing last October that we did not
want to be passive participants in triggering a development boom
in Orient.
We also learned, from SCWA representatives, that Browns Hills'
drinking water is purer today than it will be when SCWA brings us
water from East Marion.
I wrote to Mr. ]ones at the time asking SCWA to please halt their
project at least until it has been given proper public hearing at
the Southold Town Board ...
Our letter received no response.
BREATHE
But tonight, thanks to you, the Board and some other activities,
we are here having a Public Hearing.
! want to thank you for insisting that SCWA request an
amendment to the Town Water Map before they go any further.
!n doing this, you are asking them to do the right things in the
right sequence.
! also want to make it very clear that we want every single
person in Orient to have clean water.
We are not saying "No" to this pipeline.
We are saying "Not yet".
BREATH E
We ask you to table this amendment to the water map until
everything that should be done first has been done.
That is:
First ... Before anyone digs a hole to go under Dam Pond, all
environmental reviews, etc. need to be in place.
BREATHE
Second ... More protections need to be given to Orient to ensure
a water main does not trigger development.
Mr. De Luca, President of Group for the East End told us earlier
this year that Orient is vulnerable to rezoning because we have
only one protection against development ...
... lack of adequate ground water.
2
Other areas have multiple protections. We need to get these in
place for Orient through the Comprehensive Plan, before the
pipeline comes in.
BREATHE
Third ... Every resident of Orient should be invited to say
whether they want SWCA water.
That means all 700+ residents in Orient not just the 100+ on the
pipeline route.
It is clear, as you have all noted, that SCWA's intentions are to
bring water to everyone in Orient.
This is what they told NY State when they requested stimulus
funds.
And it just does not make sense to spend something in the region
of $25,000 per home for Browns Hills and those on the main
road.
That is fine providing again, that they do the right things in the
right sequence.
;In interviewing only residents along the proposed pipeline, the
water company has once again made a tiny concession - not the
wholehearted response ! want from a company that exists for the
public benefit.
BREATHE
To sum up:
· We want clean water for everyone
3
· Our concerns are with doing the right thing, in the right
sequence
· We ask you to table this law until all the earlier steps have
been fulfilled,
We are not saying "NO"
We are saying "Not Yet."
4
BROWN'S HILLS ESTATES, INC.
P.O.box 254
OriENt, NEW YOrk 1 ~1957
Stephen M. ]ones, CEO
Suffolk County Water Authority
4060 Sunrise Highway,
Oakdale, NY 11769
October 21, 2009
Re: Browns Hills Water Main Extension
Dear Mr. ]ones,
We, the residents of Browns Hills, are writing to ask you to call a halt to this
project, at least until it has been given proper public hearing at Southotd Town
Board, the town's water map has been thoroughly reviewed and updated, and
environmental concerns for Dam Pond and Oysterponds have been settled.
We simply do not believe that our 23 homes and a few others along the main road
merit $1.9 million of Federal Stimulus Funds. There must be many other far more
urgent needs.
The men and women of SCWA provide Browns Hills with excellent service and we
grateful for this. We have no substantial complaints about the quality or amount of
drinking water available through the reverse osmosis filters. It would be wonderful
to have that quality from all our faucets but, as we understand it, the new pipeline
would not achieve that:
· We're told the reverse osmosis filters SCWA give us drinking water that has
only 2 parts nitrate/million;
· The new pipeline would deliver a higher level than that and probably quite
close to the legal limit of
· l~f we chose to keep these filters, it would be at our own cost and we would
end up paying more, not less for water.
If we have a complaint or concern about our current system, it is about the
antiquity of the existing pipes and lack of pressure in some households. But the
pipeline project will not replace any of the existing pipes and we seriously doubt the
ability of a "booster" pump at the wellhead to help the pressure without breaking
those pipes.
Beyond the immediate issues of Browns Hills, we fear that bringing this pipeline
into Orient will lead to development of this spectacular area and disaster for its
fragile water aquifer.
l~t is true, as you have said, that it is up to Southold Town, not SCWA, to provide
protections against that. But until that happens, we would strongly prefer to keep
the system we have.
Yours sincerely,
Venetia Hands
For Catherine Chaudhuri, President of Browns Hills, members of the Board of
Directors and Browns Hills residents. Names and signatures available if desired.
Copies to:
Southold Town Supervisor and Planning Board
Office of Governor Patterson
Office of Tim Bishop
DEC
Suffolk Times
Orient Association
John and Nina Winter
590 North View Drive
P.O. Box 550
Orient, NY 11957
tel: 323-3733
March 30, 2010
Mr. Scott A. Russell
Supervisor
Town of Southold
PO Box 1179
Southold, NY 11971
APR - 2 2010
Amendment of Southold Town's water map
Suffolk County Water Authority proposed transmission main to Brown's Hills
Dear Mr. Scott A. Russell,
rFirst off we would like to t~..k you for holding February's Town Hall meeting in Orient and
istening to real concerns or increased property development of the most pdstine rural
hamlet on Long Island which shall most certainly follow the proposed installation of the
SCWA's transmission line to Brown's Hills.
We are residents of Brown's Hills. We do not desire or need SCWA to construct a
transmission main from East Marion to Brown's Hills. We are happy with the water quality
that our home's reverse osmosis system produces.
Accordingly, we want the Board to vote NO to amend the town's
water map to add the transmission line to Brown's Hills at least until
such time that a full environmental review is completed by the Town and until
a Comprehensive Planning process has been completed by the Town.
ks you are aware SCWA cl,a. ims that Brown's Hills well water is unsafe due to a high nitrate
level. According to SCWA s 2009 Annual Water Qualiiy Statement (available online) and
attached to this email, "almost 70 percent of Suffolk County Community supply wells rated
as high, or very high for susceptibility in nitrates." Brown's Hills is not the exception.
Our reverse osmosis systems comply with the state's safe drinking
water levels for nitrate. There Is no need for a transmission main to
Brown's Hill.
SCWA's 2009 report states that Brown's Hills (Distribution3 Area ~35) nitrate level never
exceeded 7.02 ppm and had an average level of 3.70.
By contrast, East Marion's public water pumping source (Distribution Area #30) reported a
maximum ni~ate level of 8.36 ppm and an average level of 3.90, both reporting levels
HIGHER than Brown's Hills.
There will be no benefit to the Brown's Hills community by the
proposed transmlaslon line from East Marion. In fact, SCWA would
be Introducing a 5% average higher level of nitrates to Orient by their
own calculations.
Further, It is reported that the East Marion well was removed from
service in 2008 due to total coliform bacterial levels. No such action
was taken to BH's well.
Orient's other residents can rely upon private, economical and modern
reverse osmosis filtering systems in order to drink safe water just as the
folks at Brown's Hills have for many years.
Please do not amend the water map to allow the transmission main to come into Orient and
Brown's Hills. Vote NO to change the water map.
Thank you very much for your kind considerations of this matter.
Very truly yours,
John and Nina Winter
Brown's Hills
Odent
Th~ ml~e below lials the wells ~a~ were removed from
in us~ in 2008 ~ they ha~ ol~va~d levels of tl~ ~o~tamim~ net~d.
The wells lis~d below were takm c~t el' service or re~lricted in use because
they had elevat~i levels ~ the o0~mlnant holed. They wexe I~ought I~ck
into routine ser~c~ in 20t~ by the u~e of fil tratlc~ for rmrr~val of ~ g~c ~-
WELL NAME LOCATION CONTAMINANT
iViill La.//15 Huntington Trichlorethene
"MTBE is M~thy{-Tcr~-Butyl Ether
2008 Lead Test Results
2008 Copper Test Results
~elUe ~ a scid~ of 100 Ih~t i~qca~ I1~ pea~n~a~ ~ a disl~buliou Itmt is equal I~ or
~l~ation Served ............................. 1,125,909
of Main ................................... 5,812
Pirc Hydrants .................................. 35.921
Wate~ Pumped (billion gallons) ........................
Total Wells in System ...............................
Active Wells in System .............................. $54
Pump S~aliorm ..................................... 241
Water Storage Ctqmci~' (million gallons) ................
Average Annual Wate~ I~ (162.218 geHom/cu~ome0 .... $197
· We coil .ec~_ .~. average of 1,078 total Cdiform samples each month dur-
n?.g 20~.., mcludin~ s,~nDIcs fram Fire Island, Stony Brook Water District
R~verstde Water Dislnct, and Camp Hero Waler District.
pie? ,~.r month, must ~I~. the hl~hest peteen~ ct' p<~tive ~nmples col-
per month, must redx~ line hl~laest n..~_ r of positive samples collected in
TABLE I - Microbiological Test Results
2.3 %
Di~,dbulicn .~ IB,~, 10,11. and 18 had ~o de~flm~s ~ leto{ Cdifctm in 200~.
TABLE II - Microbiological Test Results
4, 5. 7, 8, 21, 26, 32. 34. 39. 44. ~. 54, 55 · Stc~y Br~ WD · l~ive~de -v~T).
Can~ l-kmWD
NA, n/a: N~ Applicable
Mkro~rlams per liter (ug/I) con.ponds to ~e pa~ of liquid in ~ billion paas ~
Rqidd (para per billion - ppb).
~ per I#er (m~t0 correslx~ to one I~rt ef liquid in on~ raillion p~ltm ~
liquhJ ({xnr~{ per rrdllion - ppm)~
ENSURING THE QUALITY OF YOUR WATER
Our top priority has ~dways ~ to
cus~w~rs meets the ~
~A) ~ ~ ~ Y~
,,, New_ Yo~k Sta~ law f ..~qul. res water ~.ie~s to ~fy ~r ~ ~t
. ~ in ~ng ~ m I~ds ~ve 10 ~ ~ ~ a ~ dsk f~ ~ 9~ ~ ~s ~ ~. ~s ~ ~s
i~ ~1~ ~ ~x ~ ~e. ~ ~lev~sin ~ng ~ ~m~ ill~ ~ b~ ~c~c~ f~ in ~ ~
~ ~;s~. ~ levis ~yn~ qm~y f~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~r ~ tm~ of s~ ~. T~ ~e ~ ~
me ~ ~ m~l ~ a~c~ ~ttv[~, ~er, ~ni~ng by ~ ~ ~,~is ~ ~&S li~ 1o ~ ~ic w~
~t~.~ fo~ ~ ~ ~atl~ ~ f~h~ ~i~ ~ ~t ~ in ~mt~ ~. ~ m I~ ~ ~s ~
have ~ v~e ~ ~ ~ m~ I~el~ m ~ w~l ~. Ify~ wa~ ~s. ~ ~t ~e Surfak ~ty ~ ~ ~i~ ~
~ m~a~e ~ ~ ~f ~ ~ ~) ~ ~ 10~, ~ (~1) ~-~10.
~vt~ fr~ y~ ~& ~m ~ow~r. H~, R ~M ~ ~ ~ ~
In contm~, iron, anothex ~ubstanc~ we ~:~ ,and i:?:n'id~ mint f~ m
lems, ~ ~ ~ w~ng to ~ ~ t~v~ tt ~ ~ ~
~a~, In n wt ~ ~n ~ly ~ i~ levels ~O-
ff ~ ~ ~, ~ng a~ ~ ~ ~ ~.~ to
r~gv~ fil~ ~d im~emtmg ~ ~ ~ I~ng ~w ~ ~
Iow ~r~ wat~, ~d ~st~e flu~ng of wat~ ~n~
persoe I~:~ple.my be more vulnerable to disease .c~u?ing micmovgan/sms or
ns tn drinking water ~ the gene~ pop~l, atom. Immuno-eompro-
~ch as pemon~ w~th canc~ undergoing chemo~wd~, j~s~ns
who luiv..e undergone organ .t~ .~.ls, people .witfi I~V/AIDS or offer ~mmvae
~a'n dim, so~e eld~ly, and i.~..aat~, can be ~. culady ~ d~ from ird'ec.
uc~s. T..l~e people should ~ a~vL~' from their health ca~e In.rider about
.th~.*r d.n. nkin~ waler. ~OA/C~guideit..t~ ~ ap~ meam ~o le~aea the
tatmna~s a'e .a.v~. t~e t.r~ 9~e EPA~ Safe Ddnking Water Ho~line at (~0)
426-4791. Individuals who th/nk t~ey m~/have ~spoficliosis or giatd/a~s
2 should coalact their he~Rh care providers ~iately. -
5 ~' NO ND NO 6
0.11 4.44 0.49 47
ND NO NO ~O ~ ND 1! ND ~ HD 14 ND ND ND 4~
ND ND 1,2 ND 5 ND ND ND 0
ND 4 NO 1,0 NO ~ ~, NO t.O
ND ND 3
ND NO 6
ND NO
ND ND
ND ND 6
ND ND 6
0.08 ND 6
ND ND 7
NA NA 0
]3
OUR WATER SOURCE
In 8ene~d, d~c ~o~tmes o~ ddnki~ water (bo~ tap water and be~lJed
water) can include five~, laker
Susceptibility Ratings for Suffolk County
Community Supply Wells
Ahno~ 70 peats'ut of Suffolk Count~ cemmunit-/suFp~ wefts were rated as hi~h, or
ve~ m~n ]er sam~FUmJw/ to muans; wsm me lower popmanon aen~ry accounun8
PROTECTING AND CONSERVING
OUR GROUNDWATER
Stony Bro~k to sciendfkally study the I~nef'zt8 ~ o~amc lawn care at cur owa eflke
~ONSERVING WATER
~.~Ska~in~n~g ~ter reduces the need to construct new wells, water mains and tnnks to meet
HOW CAN YOU CONSERVE WATER ?
Woodhull, Ruthanne
Fromi
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Mary D. Dorman [mdd2@juno.com]
Monday, April 05, 2010 12:38 PM
Russell, Scott
[NEWSENDER] - Orient Water Main - Message is from an unknown sender
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and for
insisting that SCWA request an amendment to the Town Water Map before they go any further with
their plans. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to follow the proper sequence of events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and plenty of it.
However, I also Want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile environments in
Orient, and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and little development.
~Iy request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan for
Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all environmental
studies and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Mary D. Dorman, Esq.
300 Cedar Brich Lane
Orine,t NY 11957
Oddress:
Get Free Email with Video Mail & Video Chat!
http://www.juno.com/freeemail?refed=JUTAGOUTIFREMo2 lO
PLANNING BOARD MEMBERS
MARTIN H~ SIDOR
Char
WILLIAM J. CREMERS
KENNETH L. EDWARDS
JOSEPH L. TOWI~ND
DONALD J. WILCENSKI
PLANNING BOARD OFFICE
TOWN OF SOLTTHOLD
lCgl U
MAH.r~G ADDRESS:
P.O. Bax
~o~thold. ~ 11971
0~'1~ ~ON:
To~ H~
~ ~ ~u~ 25
(~. ~ ~. & Yo~ A~.)
~t~ld.
T~ho~: 631 7~1938
F~: ~1
PRIORITY MEMORANDUM·
To:
Scott Russell, Town Supervisor
Members of the Town Board
From:
Date:
Marlin Sidor, Planning Board Chaiq~emon
Members of the Planning Board
March 25~ 2009
Re:
Planning Board Comments on Water Main Extension to Brown's Hills Subdivision.
The Planning Board has reviewed the above referenced pwposed legislation and provides the following
comments.
The proposed water main extension is proposed to serve'the Brown's Hills Subdivision,
however, the Southold Wate~ Supply Plan Map with Suffolk County Department of Health
Services Amendments (2009) indicates that the highest concentration of private wells with
impaired water quality occurs in and around the Village; e.g. Village Lane, Oyster Pond Lane,
'King S~eeL Harbor'Road, Douglas Road, Old Farm Road etc .... A second identified area
occurs with}n .the "Orient by'the Sea" subdivision. It is Strongly recommended that all imurgved
lots which have bee0 idepflfied as containina imoaired water Quality. be included as priority
service areas to orotect public health? C0rrespondin~lv, these areas should be !nclud~d in the
oendinc~ SEQRA action. '
The project proposes that service connections to prospective Suffolk County Water Authodty
customers are. proposed to be flee of charge, whereas in all other sections of the Town the
substantial fees to connect to.public water were required to be paid by the landowner. How was
·. this waiver of fees applied? Are the parcels that abut the New'York State Route 25 also going
to be connected flee of charge?
3, The Planning Board will reserve any ~'utum concerns or comments on the extension of the water
main to orient until the environmental 'review of the proposed action is complete.
Cc: Martin Finnegan, Town Attorney
Jennifer Andalom, Assistant Town Affomey
Woodhull, Ruthanne
Page 1 of 1
From: Elizabeth Thompson [et@elizabeththompsonarchitect.com]
Sent: Monday, April 05, 2010 11:24 AM
To: Russell, Scott
Cc: Berliner, Sandra; input@orientwater, info
Subject: Orient Water Main
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and for insisting
that SCWA request an amendment to the Town Water Map before they go any further with their plans.
In doing this, you are asking SCWA to follow the proper sequence of events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and plenty of it.
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile environments in
Orient, and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and little development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan for
Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all environmental studies
and obtained all necessary permits.
I feel very strongly about this!!
Sincerely,
Elizabeth Thompson, R.A.
1655 Old Farm Rd.
P.O.B. 464, Orient
4/5/2010
April 1, 2010
Supervisor Scott Russell
Town Hall
PO]Box 1179
Southold, NY 11971
D~ Supervisor Russell.
Thank you for me opportuni~ to comment on the local law to amend the water supply plan map
to include the extension of a water transmission main to the Browns Hills subdivision.
We live in Browns Hills. We want good clean drinkable water in Orient. We also want our rural
character, our fagms and open space -these are the drivers of our economically important
agricultural and totui~n industries. Those industries employ us.
We ask that you wait on this amendment and move forward with the comprehensive plan.
1- let the public comment and put in a vision we all agree on for Orient, by completing a
comprehensive plan
2- put a moratorium on any zoning changes until the comp-plan is finished
3- complete the environmental impact statement of havlng a water pipeline installed in
Orient, and let that information be part of the comprehensive plan discussion
I have friends living along the causeway who want public water. A master plan with "~anart
growth" zoning would allow for public water For those who want it, arid also maintain for public
benefit and lower taxes our open space and farmlands - which keep our taxes down by requiring
less municipal services.
Wc want clean drinkable water. Those of us living in Browns Hills with filtered water wcrc told
by SCWA that our current reverse osmosis filter system gives us drinking water that is 2 parts
nitrate per million, and thc new pipeline would deliver u higher level than that, and probably
closer to thc legal 10 limit. So if we chose to keep our filter, we would be paying more, not less
for water,
Economically, it would make sense that many people with wells will choose the cheaper,
cleaner, healthier route - install a filter systcm (a one time cost of about $300 and there are
amazing hi tCCh ones on the market ) and keep our wells.
Please vote "no, not now" on the amendment, and "yes" on moving forward with the
comprehensive plan.
Sincerely,
g55 Southview, Bwwns Hills, POB 51 I, Orient
P.O. Box 116
Orient, NY, 11957
March 31, 2010
Supervisor Scott Russell and the Southold Town Board
Southold Town Hall
53095 Route 25, P.O. Box 1179
Southold, NY, 11971
Dear Supervisor Russell:
We are residents of Orient, who, we believe, would be aversely
effected by the installation of water mains to our area by the Suffolk
County Water Authority. We have our own private well, which only
recently was tested by the Suffolk County Health Dept. and found in
total compliance with all county standards for clean, potable water.
We realize that not all Orient residents are as fortunate as we in
this regard. However, we also know from their strong protests at
community meetings here in Orient that even the residents of Browns
Hill (for whom the water main extension was odcjinally Pr.OPOSed) are
not in favor of such an installation. :': ~ '"' ~- ~' ':'~ ~
Orient, as you are well aware is a rather unique place. You as
town officials understand that the area is a magnet for Whblesome,
(and lucrative) family tourism. There is much concern here that a
public water supply would mean the constructiOn of a great many new
homes in the area and greater population density. Once that occurs,
the bucolic quality of the area is gone. People do not visit Levittown or
Coram for a daytrip "to the country" as they do here.
Therefore, we hope that you will not amend the local law
pertaining to the Water Supply Plan Map which would include the
extension of a water transmission main to the Browns Hill subdivision.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely'yours,
Ellen and Paul Mitchell
Woodhull, Ruthanne
Pag/e 1 of 1
From: David P. Moore [dmoore3@optonline.net]
Sent: Friday, Apd102, 2010 12:27 PM
To: Russell, Scott
Subject: Water Transmission Main to Orient
Gentlemen:
As a year-round resident of the Main Road in Odent since 1968, I am encouraging you to
APPROVE the amendment to the Wate¢ Map and anything else necessary that will allow the
extension of the SCWA main to Orient. Please consider the following possible sequence of
events if that makes it more palatable to you and those who claim to be opposed to the water
main:
1. Approve the amended Water Map A.S.A.P.
2. Enact a moratorium on zoning changes or appeals in the areas affected by the extension
of the main, until the Comprehensive Master Plan you're working on is completed (Jan.20117.)
3. Cast the Comprehensive Plan "in stone" so that challenges to it based on water availability
alone will require major legal, environmental ,and political hurdles be overcome before any
appeals are granted.
The Main Road has become less accommodating for the people who live alongside it over the
past 42 years. This water main will be the first change that actually benefits the full-time
citizens who live here, AND, who choose to participate in SCWA water.
Thank you for your consideration.
David P. Moore (323-3740)
24805 Main Road
Orient, N.Y. 11957
4/5/2010
Woodhull, Ruthanne
Page 1 of 1
From: amygross [amypgl@yahoo.com]
Sent: Sunday, April 04, 2010 9:08 PM
To: Russell, Scoff
Cc: Berliner, Sandra
Subject: [NEWSENDER] - Orient Water Main - Message is from an unknown sender
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board:
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and for
insisting that SCWA request an amendment to the Town Water Map before they go any further with
their plans. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to follow the proper sequence of events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and plenty of it.
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile environment in Orient
and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and little development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan for
Southold is in place and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all environmental studies
and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Amy Gross
740 Northview Drive
Orient, NY 11957
4/5/2010
Woodhull, Ruthanne
Page 1 of 2
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Bob DeLuca [bdeluca@eastendenvironment. org]
Thursday, April 01, 2010 1:15 PM
Russell, Scott
Samantha Homan
Subject: SCWA Resolution/DEIS
Hi Scott: I am sure you have been getting your share of input about the SCWA hearing next week, but I
wanted to pass something along.
Last week I had been back and forth with Steve Jones who indicated that SCWA was intending to do a
Water Supply Study for the project. I suggested that the study could address some of the lager issues
raised in the community if he would sit down and meet with folks who had concerns. He didn't want to
take that on, made it clear that the supply study was not a DEIS and suggested I get some community
input and get back to him.
Interestingly, that same day I was provided with a copy of a SCWA Board resolution (minutes of
1/19/10) that indicated the SCWA board had decided to do a supply plan and a DEIS for the water main
project. I sent this over to Steve suggesting it provided an opening for more community discussion, but
did not hear anything back. Here is the copy of the reso. that was sent over to me - I don't have a hard
copy, but this was taken from the SCWA Minutes:
WHEREAS, a number of govemment representatives have requested that an
environmental review of drinking water supply in Orient be conducted,
now therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the Authority will prepare a drinking water supply plan
for the Hamlet of Orient, and
RESOLVED, That the Authority will treat the plan as an Unlisted Action
under State Environmental Quality Review regulations, and the
Authority will prepare an environmental impact statement for the plan.
The main point I see here is that if the SCWA Board passed a resolution to conduct an "environmental
impact statement" it would seem according to State Law that they cannot proceed with any work until it
is done. Legal folks on your end may want to look into this a bit more, but if that is what the SCWA
board intended, breaking ground on this project could not legally proceed until there was a DEIS -
public comment period - Findings, Filings, etc. Conversely, if they want to rescind the resolution that
would have to happen formally as well under SEQRA. I think its worth looking into.
As another thought (if this project ends up moving forward), it would seem to me that a limited
Moratorium (and I do realize how some folks feel about the Moratorium word) on change of zone
applications in Orient, would eliminate the greatest growth inducement risk of the pipeline until the
Town caught up with its comprehensive planning efforts and set a solid and updated set of community
goals/zoning adjustments for Orient that would better protect the community from any development
risks posed by change of zone applications. If there really is no threat of such applications, the
moratorium wouldn't impact anyone, but if there were such an application the Town would be protected
fi.om having to deal with it until the Comp. Plan is complete. The water main would justify the
4/5/2010
Page 2 of 2
moratorium and the general exemption provisions with any moratorium would give the town an escape
hatch if some truly wonderful change of zone was proposed.
I am going to share these thoughts with the folks in Mark Alessi's office who I have been in contact
with as well so we all have the same info.
Thanks for taking the time to review these thoughts. I will be out of state for a few days, but back next
week and happy to chat more about this if you wish to discuss any of this further. I do plan to attend the
hearing on Tuesday.
Best, Bob
Robert S. DeLuca, President
Group for the East End
P.O. Box 1792
Southold, NY 11971
ph. 631-765-6450 x-213
fx. 631-765-6455
www.eastendenvironment.org
4/5/2010
SCWA DISTRIBUTION AREAS
Suffolk County rs not flat In fact, the ground surface e evatlon across the county varies from sea level to over 300 feet above sea level. Elevation is the key fac-
tor n determ nmg water pressure, the lower the 9round elevation, the higher the pressure. A single water system could not provide reasonable water pressure to
every home Some homes would have too much pressure and some would have no pressure at all. Therefore, the Water Authority has div dad the system into 44
pressure zones. Distribution areas may encompass more than one pressure zone. There are 30 dislrlDU[IOn areas.
Each pressure zone is made up of pump stations, storage tanks, and/or booster stations wmcn are Designed to orowde adeduam water pressure to ina e~evat~ons
they serve. These facilities are connected by underground water pipes of various sizes. This piping network is called a dlS[rlDU[IOn system. A pump sf~tlon con-
sists of at least one well and associated treatment facilities. The well provides access to toe undergroun(~ aauifer We use a submersible pump powered by an
electric motor to bring the water out of the ground, through the treatment facility and into the distribution s.~s[em. The water can then be dehvered to homes fire
hydrants, schools and wherever else it is needed. Any excess water goes into the storage tank where it is stored for later use. The water storage tank Drowdes a
stable operating pressure and can supply a lot of water in a short time in the event of an emergency. The wells are [urne(~ on and off as re(~ulreo to satisfy the
water demand in the distribution system.
If you look at the distribubon area map shown below, you will see the s~ze of the areas range from yew sma which serves a few homes to very ~arge~which serves
tens of thousands of homes. The distribution areas are interconnected with booster pumps and/or automatic con:rd valves In the event of very high demands for
water during peak summer usage or an emergency, such as a fire or main break, the booster pum~ or automatic valve will operate anD supply additional water to
the impacted area. This operation helps insure that adequate water is available at all times. It also means that if your home is near the boundary of a distribution
area. it may receive water from the adjacent distribution area on occasion. In a few areas, booster Dumps routinely pump water from one zone to another Please
see the notes on the map for more information.
NOTE: 43 percent of the total water
orovided in the Flanders area came
from Oistnoution Area 21 and 6 per-
cent came from DistribUtion Area 20 in
2008, This area is shown below as
Distribution Area 39,
NOTE: In 2008, 3.5 oercem of the
total water dfOVl~Je(] in the Southold
area came from the Riverbead Water
District This area ~s
Distribution Area 30
NOTE: 44 percent of the total water pro-
v~oeo n the Montauk area during 2008
came from Distribuhon Area 23 This area
ts shown below as Distdbubon Area 26
NOTE: During July 2008,
Camp Hero Water District
was permanently connect-
ed to and received some of
its water from Distribution
Area 26.
// Montauk
NOTE: 98 percent of the total water provided
in the Huntington Manor area came from
Distribution Area 6 in 2008. This area is shown
below as Distribution Area 7.
~lot Served by SCWA
0
Scale for Suffolk County
5 10 15 Miles
NOTE: This part of Farmingville received 29 percent
of its water from Distribution Area 12 ann ?l Dercen[
from Distribution Area 15 in 2008.
Not Served b:CCWA
RSWI
2008 came from Distribution Area 32, This
area ~s snown to the left as Distribution
Area 20.
Davis Park
Kismet
Ocean BayPark Water District,
Point O' W=ods, Cherry Grove,
Fire Island 9ii, es
Fair Harbor Water District, Lonelyville,
Dunewood, Atlantique, Summer Club,
Corneille Estates
Scale for Fire Island
3 Miles
NOTE: In 2008.5 percent of the total water pro-
vided in this portion of the Bridgehampton-Sag
Harbor area came from Distribution Area 23. This
area is shown to the left as Distribution Area 34.
SCWAWATER DISTRICTS ACTIVE WELLS
i:B~utwood Water~listrict .................... 0 (Pan of Distribution Area t2)
I Camp Here Water District ..................... 3 (Part of Distflbufiot~ Area 26 after July '08)
Fair Harbor Water District ..................... 2 (Part of Distribution Area 53)
Stony Brook Wate~ District ................... 0 (Part of Dlsflflbufion Area 14 & 15)
Eivarside Water Dil~trict ........................ 0 (Part of Distflbutlon Area 21 & 39)
SCWA DISTRIBUTION AREAS
.... Not Served by SCWA
i Distribution Area lA ............................. 76
Distribution Area lB ............................. 37
Distribution Area 4 ................................. 3
lB Distribution Area 5 ................................. 4
Distribution Area 6 ............................... 20
Distribution Area 7 ................................. 1
Distribution Area 8 ................................. 3
i Distribution Area 9 ................................. 6
Distribution Area 10 ............................. 16
Distribution Area 11 ............................. 21
Distribution Area 12 ............................. 93
Distribution Area 14 ............................... 5
Distribution Area 18 ............................. 80
Distribution Area 20 ............................. 35
Distributleft Area 21 ............................... 3
Distribution Area 26 ............................. 14
Distribution Area 30 ............................. 48
Distribution Ama 32 ............................... 2
Distribution Area 34 ............................... 1
Distribution Area 38 ............................... 2
~ Distribution Area 39 ............................... 1
Distribution Area 44 ............................... 2
Distribution Area 53 ............................... 7
Distribution Area 54 ............................... 6
i Distribution Area $$ ...............................
3
TOTAL ACTIVE WELLS = 554
File View Toobar Help
P~rop
Name SWlS Yem Pineal Id Sbee~ #aae l:3afl
Suflolk ~ Walef Aullmn~ 473889 2007 21.-4-2
Suffolk Cmmly Warm Aulhod~ 473O09 2007 31.-2-32.5
Suffolk Coum~ Warm Auemd~473o09 2007 31.-2-34
~ Warm Authod~473889 2007 35.-2-15.1
Wate~ A~he~l, 4738~ 2087 40.-4-1
5uflolk Coup, Wate~ Autho~ 47311O0 2007 54.-3.22
Suffolk ~ V/am AMhod~ 473889 2007 59.-3-16~6
Sufloik Cou~ Water Aulhod~4Z3o09 2007 59.-3-24
t Warm Aulhodt~ 473O09 2007 6~-3.2
Warm Authod~ 473O09 2O07 O0.-4-10J
Suffufk Coufa~ Wa~ef Auihmi~ 473O09 2007 69.-1-1.3
S uffolJL CouM.- Wa~ef Aulhmi~ 473889 2007 69.-1-4.2
Suffolk Co~ WaU~ Aulhed~473o09 2087 69.-3-4
Suffolk Coumy Warm Aufhod~ 473889 2007 74.-2-17
Suffolk Cou~ Walm Au#mnl~ 473O09 2007 88.-6-13.53
Suffol~ Cmm~y Wale, Au~i1~473o09 2007 99.-2-16.1
Suffolk Cou~ Warm Aulhedl~ 47388S 2007101.-2-16
Suffolk Cou~ Walm Amhod~ 473O09 2007106.-6-38
Suffolk Courtly Walef Aulhod~ 473O09 2007121
Suffolk Courtly Warm Au~md~473o09 2007 121.-5-1.10
Suffo#c Courtly Warm Aulhod~ 473O09 2007121 .-5-5.1
Suffolk Couray Walef Authority 4738O0 200712Z-2-25
, Warm Au~y 473O09 2007122_-6-35.9
3892 Rock.- Poi~ 1721~..~.1.5O0
1350 Rock~ Poim 1311~.O00
1822 Rock~Polni1340 ,~,:~.~ 1.O00
5275 no.., 25 S22 iL.?~: 5_.200
66040 CR 48 311. I I.~"~ 5.300
6750IdNodhRd 822~ '~ ½Z 9.680
1612 I~Rd 822~ __l,C/q 500
700 Boi~eauAve Z29 /..~/ 12.200
2702 Sour~w A 311__. /~. /~ 2.900
35535 CFI 4a 321 ~/,/~ 6.50O
36405 CR 40 211- ~.~? 2.90O
3410 Acked~PdlJ822_. ~;,~' 1:_600---
32975 CR 48 311. ~. ~ 2.800
30o £q~u~de 822~__/, 7 0 100
950 InlelDf 822~ ~;/~ 1.900
57'80 SoundAve 970
700 Pfivale Rd 1111822 ~ 1~.300~
725 Hob=o~m 822 i~,~. 1~00
7195 Route 25 822 ,~/: 2~.0
File View Toobar Help
Owflef Name 5'~/lS Yem Parcel Id Slfeol Name
Sulfelk Coun~ ~tatm Au~od~473889 2007 21.-4-2
Sulfeik Coen~ ~/am Adhen~47368g 2007 31.-2-32.5
Sulfldk Ceunt~ Vatm/w~mil~473869 2907 31.-2-34
Suffelk ~ ~a~ef AdJmeil~473~sg 2607 3~-2-111
Suffolk Cem~ ~ ~4T~sg 2g07 40.~l-1
5uifo~ Com~ ~/atm Adimn~ 473889 2007 54.-3-22
Sm'folk ~ ~/atm A. tflon~ 4~ 200~ 59.-3-1 [6
Sul~k CounW V/a~m Au~m~47398g 2007 6g.-1-1.3
Surfak CounW ~/a~m Adhoa~473~g 2007 ~L-1~.2
Suffolk Cma~ ~/a~w Adhoa~ 47388g 2607 74.-2-17
Suffolk Count~ ~tatm Adhoo~ 47388g 2907 9(L-&-13.53
Suffolk Coml~ Walm Aulhm~ 47388~ 2007 9~.-2-16.1
SuffoE Coufda, ~/def Aullumll4~ 2007101.-2-16
: Rod~l, Point 1~~1.600
3410 Aclce~ Pd IJ822
300 E~phma~ ~ /, ?~ "100
95o ,,*.o, 822 ,
Suffolk Cam~ Warm A~ 473869 2007106.-8-39
Surfak Caen~ ~atm A~ 47'3089 2007121.4-9.3
Sulfolk Coma~ ~/atef Au~473~89 2007121.-5-1.10
ISulfelk Cmm~ Walm Auth(ml~473~ 2007121,-55.1
ISu~feik CoonW Waim AdlNNi~473889 2007122.-2-26
Ca un ii, V/aim Aothoo~ 473089 200712Z-6-35.$
930 Satori:Df 692 I,, 0,] !_00
7120 SoundAve 022-- ',~. ~g 5.100 ~
7'00 P~,a~e Rd 111822 ~ ~', ,~.1 13.300/
725 H,MmmOf 822 j4.§~ 1.500
SCWA PRODUCTION cONTROL
PUMPAGE AND STORAGE STATISTICS: 01/2006 TO 12/2006
SYSTEM PEAK DAY FOR THIS PEAK 5-HRS: 0200-0700 HRS.
PERIOD: 5-HOUR pEAK PEAK DAY
ANNUAL AVERAGE pEAK PEAK pEAK STORAGE STORAGE AVAIL
TOTAL DAY DAY 5-HRS RATE (LOSS)/GAIN (LOSS}/GAIN PUMPS NOTES
ZONE STATION J (MO) I (MG) J (MG) J (MG) I (GPM)
$OUTHOLD LOW 08/05~6
-'- - ........ ' o'~ o'12ooo --
~ ...... . ........... ,,~,~ 0321] 0692 0.121
[---~--]~DLERDSOU'[HOt-D ~,=.-,~ ......... ~~ ~ --I 1 I 100
~ ..... . ............ ~ ?nn 0 02£ 0 050 u.uz~ ,-- __.
r-~ MILL !.ANE PECONIt~ .............. ~~
~ ~ ~ "'----"'~ ~ 0.030 11~~
Y30 OLD NOel H I~u --.--..--. ~ ...... 077 -- --I , t ~'~
I--~'- -~i~?~5T~5-- 1,.~o~ o.oso v.,,, -_.~: _..._...~ ~ ~
~ L'~C ...... ,,~c ~ 0.135 u.u~.~
~0 THELON~iW~¥ ~ ~~~ ="m"~'~--~~l 8! 1,130
,-:.'~ ?,._..___~,. Zl._.__441L._.s._~l 1.:.,
$cwA PRODUCTION CONTROL
PUMPAGE AND STORAGE STATISTICS: 01/2005 TO 12/2005
SYSTEM PEAK DAY FOR THIS
PERIOD:
06/28/05
PEAK 5-HRS: 0200-0700 HRS.
5-HOUR pEAK PEAK DAY
ANNUAL AVERAGE PEAK PEAK PEAK STORAGE STORAGE AVAIL
ZONE STATION TOTAL DAY DAY 5-ERS RATE (LOSSyGAIN (LOSS)/GAIN PUMPS
I (MG) ~ (MG) ~ (MG) I (MG) I (GPM) I (MG) I RATE(GPM)I NO. (GPM)
$OUTHOLD LOW 08/12/05
30 ACKERLY POND LA 169,90~ 0.48~ 0.996 0.207 795 --
30 BRECKNOCK HALL 34.309 0.09~ 0.361 0.121 39~ --
30 INLET DR 75.40C 02.~ 0,327 0.095 264 --
30 ISLANDS END 20.30~ 0.05~ 0.183 0.052 20(] --
30 KENNEYS RD 129.00~ 0.359 0.701 0.152 488
30 LAUREL LAKE 75.40~ 020~ 0,757 0.236 774
30 MIDDLE RD PECONIC 22.1~ 0.069 0,147 0,036
30 MIDOLE RD SOUTHOLD 137.20( 0.37~ 0.720 0.155 54g
30 MILL LANE PECONIC 1t,60C 0,03~ 0.100 0.025 152
30 MOORE$ LANE TANK (0.111]
30 NORTH RD 6,20~ 0.019 0.119 0.033 119
30 OLD NORTH RD 37.8(X 0~'4; 0.527 0.107 74~ .....
30 ' PECONIC BAY BLVD BSTR 2IL40( 0.07~ 0,234 0.090 419
30 ROCKY POINT RD, 22.70( 0.06~ 0.152 0.034 141
30 SUNSET DR. 23.70( 0.06~ 0.218 0.051 204
30 THE LONG WAY 0.70( 0.00; 0.031 0.011
TOTALS 844.700, 2.25,~ 5.573 1.405 5,48C 10.111)1 ~750} 0
NOTES
SCWA PRODUCTION CONTROL
PUMPAGE AND STORAGE STATISTICS:
PEAK DAY FOR THIS PERIOD:
01/2004 TO 12/2004
07/I 1/O4
PEAK 5-HRS: 0200-0700 HRS.
ZONE STATION
SOUTHOU) LOW
S-HOUR PEAK PEAK DAY
ANNUAL AVERAGE PEAK PEAK PEAK STORAGE STORAGE AVAIL
TOTAL DAY DAY 5-HRS RATE (LOSS)/GAIN (LOSS)/GAIN PUMPS
(MG) (MGD) (MG) (MG) (GPM) (MG) RATE(GPM) NO. (GPM)
30 ACKERLY POND LA t38.700 0.37C 1,031 0.188 79~
30 BRECKNOCK HALL 24.500 0.06~ 0.270 0,030 174 200
30 INLET DR 88.200 0.24~ 0.646 0,109 462
30 ISLANDS END 12.800 0.03~ 0. t22 0.054 20(]
30 KENNEYS RD 123.600 0.33C 0.639 0.104 473
30 LAUREL LAKE 63.100 0.17C 0.582 0.132 622
30 MAIN BAY'VIEW SERVICE 1.700 0.00~ 0.010 0.000 {] 1 150
30 MIDDLE RD PECONIC 14.600 0,04~ 0,108 0.008 10~ 1 50
30 MIDDLE RD 8OUTHOLD 136.100 0.37£ 0.718 0.130 545 --
30 MILL LANE PECONIC 7.0{~ 0.01C 0.069 0,000 0 ...... 2 250
30 MOORES LANE TANK -- -- 0.018 133
30 NORTH RD 9,000 0.02~ 0,125 0.016 5~ 1 50
30 OLD NORTH RD 94.500 0.25( 0.666 0.106 707 I 220
30 PECONIC BAY BLVD BSTR 9.500 0.02¢ 0.050 0,000 {] 2 500
30 ROCKY POINT RD, 16.800 0.04C 0.136 0.015 11(~ I 50
30 SUNSET DR. 1.100 0.00:~ 0.072 0.025 t0~
30 THE LONG WAY O/S 100
TOTALS 741.200 1.95~ 5.244 0,917 4,347 0.018 t33 1,570
NOTES
I O/S
:10IS
5 Prepared by Michael O'Connell
SCWA PRODUCTION CONTROL
PUMPAGE AND STORAGE STATISTICS:
01/2003 TO 12/2003
PEAK DAY FOR THIS PERIOD:
07106/03
PEAK 5-HRS: 0200-0700 HRS.
ZONE STATION
ANNUAL AVERAGE
TOTAL DAY
(MG) (MGD)
5-HOUR PEAK
PEAK PEAK PEAK STORAGE STORAGE
DAY 5-HRS RATE (LOSS)/GAJN (LOSS)/GAIN NOTES
(MG) (MG) (GPM) (MG) RATE(GPM)
30 ACKERL¥ POND LA 111.40( 0.300 ILT00 0.150 57C
30 BRECKNOCK HALL 51.10( 0.14~ 0.241 0.024 20(
30 INLET DR 79.60C 0.210 0.400 0.090 28(
30 ISLANDS END #6 OIS ILO00 ILO00 0.000
30 ISLANDS END ~8 O/S 0.000 0.000 0.000
30 KENNEYS RD 74.20~ 0.200 0.700 0. t50 50(
30 LAUREL LAKE 68.30(~ 0. t80 0.217 0.050 27(
30 MAIN BAYVlEW SERVICE 2.10( 0.005 0.010 0.000
30 MIDDi. E RD PECONIC 18.9~ 0.050 0.090 0.012 15(
30 MIDDLE RD SOUTHOLD 93.60~ 0.250 0.750 0.150 56(
30 MILL LANE RECONIC 32.40~ ILO~0 0.175 IL025 14(
30 MOORE$ LANE TANK 0.017 200
30 NORTH RD ILO0~ ILO00 0.000 IL000
30 OLD NORTH RD 74.50~ 0.200 0.325 0.025 25(
30 * PECONIC BAY BLVO BSTR IL20~ 0.004 0.000 0.000
30 ROCKY POINT RD. 13.4(~ 0.030 0.086 0.014 5(
30 SUNSET DR. 0.90~ 0.002 0.000 0.002 13(
30 THE LONG WAY 0.10~ 0.000 ILO00 0.0O0
TOTALS 620.70~ 1.651 3.394 0.692 3,11( 0.017 200
6
4
William W. Schriever
20275 Main Road
P. O. Box 128
Orient, NY 11957
Apartment 631-477-9009
Cell Phone 631-786-6252
RECEIVt D
$outhold Town Clerk
April 6, 2010
Southold Town Board
53095 Route 25
P. O. Box 1179
Southold, NY 11971
Ladies and Gentlemen:
Re: Water Main To Orient
I am writing to ask for your support for the extension of the water main to Orient by the
Suffolk County Water Authority. I live in a house on the Main Road and ! very much want to
connect to this water main as soon as it becomes available. My water system needs major repairs
and I decided to wait to install public water rather than to make another major investment in my
own water system. With your support, I hope the new water main will be in operation by
sometime this fall.
I would like to share my experience with you so you can better understand and appreciate
the advantages of having public water instead of maintaining a private well and water system on
your own property. I live in a house that is 100 years old this year. My late wife and I owned
and maintained this house for 53 of those years. Prior to that my wife's family first rented the
house and then purchased it as a summer residence. The house is now on a lot of 1.6 acres so the
spacing of the well from the cesspools has not been a problem. It sits on a knoll hundreds of feet
from the salt water of the Bay so flooding and salt-water intrusion has not been a problem.
Fanning on the hill behind the house was discontinued probably a hundred years ago so the
water is not contaminated with agricultural chemicals. As you might expect, the well water is
really excellent to drink - the best water in Orient. So what would be the advantages to me of
having public water?
Originally the house was supplied with water by a windmill in the backyard. When
electricity became available in Orient in the 1920's a P¼-inch well point was driven from the
bottom of a brick-lined excavation about 5 feet deep dug in the floor of the cellar and a shallow-
well pump was installed at the bottom of that excavation. When my wife and I acquired the
house upon the death of her mother in 1957, I had a 2-inch stainless-steel well point driven from
the bottom of the excavation and a %-horsepower shallow-well Burks turbine pump installed.
That well point is still in service. So what is my problem?
The well water is slightly acid and it eats up the metal plumbing including the pump
itself. The pump has to be rebuilt or replaced every three or four years. The pipe that carries the
water from the pump to the water storage tank becomes plugged with minerals that build up
inside the pipe so the whole pipe assembly must be replaced every three or four years. The
corrosion that occurs in the transition between the steel pipe and a brass valve will eat through
the steel pipe in a few years. I developed a technique of coating the inside of the steel pipe with
April 6, 2010 - 1 - William W, Schriever
William W. Schriever
20275 Main Road
P. O. Box 128
Orient, NY 11957
Apartment 631-477-9009
Cell Phone 631-786-6252
epoxy to retard the corrosion but even that only adds a few years to the life of the pipe. The
minerals build up in the ¼-inch tapping where the pressure switch screws on to the steel pipe and
inside the pressure switch itself. So the pressure switch must be removed, disassembled and
cleaned about once a year. Finally, the steel pipe above the well point, the cast iron in the pump,
the steel pipe that connects the pump to the tank and the steel tank itself all generate rust that
must be flushed out of the tank and the water plumbing throughout the house periodically to
maintain clean water. All of this replacement and maintenance of the water system is not only
expensive but the demands of these unscheduled re.pairs are a continuing source of irritation for
me as the homeowner. Now that I am in my 80's I no longer have the strength to do the repairs
myself. Imagine the cost to the homeowner who must hire a plumber every time his water
system needs to he repaired.
Back in the days of the hurricanes the loss of electrical power, sometimes for weeks,
would mean no power was available to pump the water for the house. First we obtained a 1.5-
kilowatt portable generator just big enough to run the water pump and a few lights. We had to
fuel and maintain that generator around the clock just to have running water. After I acquired the
house in 1957 I installed a 5-kilowatt natural-gas-fueled automatic generator to maintain
electrical power to the house during and after these storms. What a blessing that generator has
been over the last 50 years. For anyone without an automatic generator simply installing public
water will provide running water at no additional expense whenever the electricity has been
knocked out in a storm.
For those who are unable to obtain really good water from a well on their own property,
public water is the only practical way to obtain good water. A system of filters including reverse
osmosis can provide only tiny quantities of good water at a very substantial cost. In addition, the
homeowner still has all of the costs of maintaining his own well and water system. A
homeowner without public water has no guarantee that he will be able to continue obtaining
potable water on his property. A homeowner with public water is guaranteed that the
government will undertake any expense necessary to supply him with potable water. That
guarantee could be worth a small fortune to a homeowner who otherwise would have to carry his
water home from the grocery store in bottles as some residents of Orient do now.
Here is an example of the sudden loss of good water for some residents of Orient:
During the major hurricanes such a Hurricane Carol in 1954, the salt water from the Bay flooded
the homes along Village Lane all of the way up to the Methodist Church. The salt water seeped
into the ground and spoiled the well water for those homes until the rains eventually flushed out
the salt months or even years later. Another example: The Tydol filling station that used to be at
the entrance to Oyster Pond Lane leaked gasoline into the aquifer and spoiled the well water
along Oyster Pond Lane. It took years for the rains to flush out the gasoline. Also the homes
along Village Lane are on small lots and the well water is subject to contamination from cesspool
waste and other local sources of pollution. Thus the homes along Village Lane are especially in
need of public water and they could be serviced from this new water main.
April 6, 2010 - 2 - William W. Schriever
William W. Schriever
20275 Main Road
P. O. Box 128
Orient, NY 11957
Apartment 631-477-9009
Cell Phone 631-786-6252
One of my concerns is providing a water supply for fire sprinklers in larger homes like
mine, the Oysterpond School, the Orient Fire House, Poquatuck Hall and other valuable
buildings. It is my understanding is that the fire code will require a fire sprinkler system to have
a connection to a public water supply to insure an adequate and reliable source of water. In the
years to come, the Southold Town Board may decide to require fire sprinklers in new buildings,
especially large homes and apartments and commercial and institutional buildings. Having a
public water supply available is essential to provide good fire protection in the community. Just
having fire hydrants along the Main Road will decrease the cost of fire insurance for all of the
homes within a certain distance of these hydrants.
The Orient Association has been promoting the idea that the availability of public water
within the western part of Orient will create an unusual demand for the rezoning of certain
parcels of vacant land and thereby permit the construction of hundreds of new homes.
Presumably these new residential units would attract bad people to Orient and thereby ruin the
community. The best defense for the extension of public water to Orient is to observe what has
happened in East Marion, an entirely comparable community that has had public water available
for years. Where are the hundreds of new homes the Orient Association claims will be
constructed in spite of the best efforts of the Southold Town Board to maintain control?
Obviously their fear is unwarranted. Some of the residents of Orient need public water now.
There is no valid reason to delay the installation of the new water main.
I think it is time for the Southold Town Board to reassert its control over the community
of Orient. The voters of Orient helped elect you to office to represent them. The taxpayers of
Orient help pay your salary and your expenses. It is time for you to represent the community in
obtaining public water for Orient.
/~ Very truly sours,
April 6, 2010 - 3 - William W. Schriever
Berliner, Sandra
Page 1 of 1
From: Matthew Maguire[mmaguire@loebrealty.com]
Sent: Tuesday, April 06, 2010 10:10 AM
To: Russell, Scott
Subject: [NEWSENDER] - Orient water issue - please postpone action - Message is from an unknown sender
I am a homeowner in Orient (530 Orchard Street) and am very concerned at the prospect of a rash
decision that will have long-term deleterious consequences. My family and I made a long-term
commitment to and investment in Orient because of its special and irreplaceable character, a character
which impacts our enjoyment of our home, but also its continued economic value. No one expects the
town to remain frozen in time, but it is critical that any development and modernization be done in a
thoughtful and careful manner with an eye to preserving that character and value. The potential for the
pipeline project to have major effects on future development is obvious, but the Southold Town Master
Plan that would appropriately limit those effects is not in place.
Please postpone any decision on this pipeline project until the Master Plan is final and the residents of
can fairly evaluate the project's potential impact.
Respectfully,
Matthew Maguire
Matthew K. Magmre
Managing Director
Loeb Partners Realty LLC
521 Fifth Avenue, Suite 2300
NewYork ~IY 10175
Tel: 212 883 0366
Fax: 212 883 0388
4/6/2010
Berliner, Sandra
Page 1 of 1
From: Don Rose[don.mse@verizon.net]
Sent: Tuesday, April 06, 2010 12:00 PM
To: Russell, Scott
Subject: [NEWSENDER] - I want the pipeline! - Message is from an unknown sender
Scott,
Why on earth anyone would oppose the proposed water pipeline is beyond me. I want town water. I want
fire hydrants. I want water available to me when the power goes out.
Last summer I had to spend $;4,000 to have a new well drilled in my front lawn. I really would have
preferred to have spent that money on town water to my house.
I want good quality water, and I believe town water is the answer to that.
Don Rose
145 King St.
NY 11957
4/6/2010
April 6, 2010
All people in Southold are partners to this Water Authority Hearing!!!
RECEIVED
APR (o, 2010
~oulhohl Town Clerk
We furnish all the land and SCWA get the tax breaks from us - 300-400 acres of tax free
land and water undemeath to pipe through their pipes for a fee.
I believe that Greenport and Brecknock currently pay 50% of the regular rate, $ .802 per
1000 gallons). This agreement was made when SCWA purchased Greenport Water Co.
seen on page 7 R-247 of their contract and this rate was to remain the same for 10 years
from March 6, 1986 seen on page 9 R-249 of their contract. The closing date for the sale
was dated November 5, 1997 and finally dated the 29th of December 1997 as seen on
page 8 of their contract.
On another note: Fishing has suffered in Southold Town. SCWA purges their lines with
treated water and this water flows into salt water fishing areas. Having been a resident of
Southold since 1948 1 have noted no more fishing off of Oaklawn Bridge, Goose Creek
Bridge, and the lack of boats claming at the end of Pine Neck Road by the boat ramp.
Duck Pond Rd. by the old Santorini Motel is closed to fishing because there is no where
to park.
SCWA purchases 15% of the water supplied to Southold Town from Riverhead Water
Co. Enclosed are pump amounts for 2003, 4, 5 and 6 for SCWA well off Ackerly Pond
Lane at road across from Doroski Nursery - 170,700 million gallons in 2006. Are there
any monitor wells? If so, I have not seen any reports from them.
I've noticed that when "new" water mains have been installed it appears that the same
trucks with no name for identification on their doors are doing the work. Who are these
guys and where do they come from? Do these main installations go out to bid? How
many bids are required to get the best price? Has there been any "local" Southold Town
contractors allowed to bid? It seem to me there should be a requirement that our Town
Board Mandate that allows local contractors to have a shot at these jobs, being that
SCWA is selling Southold Town Water to Southold Town residents.
I would like to recommend that a representative from Southold Town be appointed to
attend SCWA Board meetings to review several of the above concerns that I and many
other people in this town have.
Thank you for you time.
R~:CEI~,ED
Comments to Southold Town Board, April 6, 2010
APR 6 20]0
~outlloJd fov~n Clerl~
My name is Betty Rowe of Orient. I speak for myself and for Walter Strohmeyer who
cannot be present this evening. Our families have owned property in Orient for over 80
years. We have maintained our wells successfully and responsibly for all of that time. It
is our desire to continue to do so.
We take responsibility for our own well being. We are quite capable of making certain
that the water we drink is filtered to be free of contaminants exceeding by far that
required of Health Department standards.
One of our major concerns is of the taking of water by the Suffolk County Water
Authority from the Orient Aquifer for consumption in other parts of Suffolk County west
of the Orient peninsula as well as to the east of the pumping station at Browns Hills. This
brings new meaning to the words, the Power of Eminent Domain, in this case with no
compensation whatsoever, by one of the multitude of out-of-control public authorities of
New York State all of which are infected with all the evils of cronyism and the hell with
the taxpayers.
Fwd: Orient Water Main http://webmail.aol.com/31226-111 / aol- 1/en-ue/mail/Pr,..
From: cammycon{~aol.com
To: scott, russell~town.southhold.ny.us
Subject: Fwd: Orient Water Main
Date: Tue, ,Npr 6, 2010 11:45 am
RECEIVED
APR 6 2010
3outhold Town Clerk
..... Original Message- ....
From: cammycon~aol.com
To: scott, r ussellC'~,town.southhold ny. us <scott. russellL~,town, southhold, ny. us>
Sent: Tue, Apr6, 2010 11:39 am
Subject: Orient Water Main
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board:
Thank you for holding the Public Headng on the proposed water main to Browns Hills and for insisting that SCWA
not proceed until and unless it
obtains the necessary amendment to the town Water Map, completes and environmental study and confirms that
there is the necessary level of
public interest in the pipeline. In doing this you are asking $CWA to follow the proper and lawful sequence of
events.
Knew that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and plenty of it. I do want to make
sure it is done in a way to protect the fragile environments in Orient and our community vision to maintain open
spaces, farmland and little development
My request is that you table this amandmant to the water map until the comprehensive plan for Southhold is in place,
and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all environmental studies and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Carrnela and Ralph Constantino
2105 Browns Hills Road
Orient, New York 11957
i of I 4/6/2010 3:12 PM
I would like to take a moment to put this issue into historical perspective. There
has been a long term commitment on the part of both the town and the Orient community to the
p~servation of open space, ever since the early 1980%, when there were two applications before
the Planning Board that galvanized the community, and would have changed the hamlet forever.
One was to build 55 imitation colonial houses on the old Hallock Farm. The other was to build a
convention center and 100 condos at Orient Point. These applications were defeated, but only
because of the lack of adequate water. Only because of the lack of adequate water. That threat
forced the community and the Town Board together to recognize and acknowledge the
importance of preserving farmland and open space in Orient, and resulted in the establishment of
2 and 5 acre zoning and in the Town's actively pursuing the purchase of development rights and
agricultural easements in the hamlet, which continues to this day.
Orient's commitment to the preservation of opon space has often been reiterated, as in
the hamlet survey conducted by the Town in 1994; an excerpt from that document reads:
--their desire to p~serve existing open space, vistas, natural resources, historic sites and
the visual character of Orient rendered it impossible to consider increased density or new
growth in the tiny hamlet.
The preservation of farmland is supported in the Town's zoning code: its statement of
purpose in agricultural/conservation and low density residential zoning says,
"to the extent possible prevent the unnecessary loss of those currently open lands within
the Town containing large and contignons areas of prime agricultural soils which are the
basis for a significant portion oftbe Town's economy".
And New York State Controller di Napoli, in a published statement only last month, titled
"Economic Benefits of Open Space Preservation", reiterated the economic benefit of the
preservation of farmlands and open space, which increase town revenues while keeping down
individual taxes.
So, how is this relevant to the present proposal to bring a water main into Orient? In the
Town's LWRP, it is stated that in Reach 5, Orient and East Marion, of the nearly 593 acres of
land still being farmed, 43% are now protected from development. That leaves 57% unprotected,
and most of these acres are in Orient and abut the Main Road, the proposed route of the water
main. We believe that until these acres are secured by a tightening oftbe zoning code, the only
thing standing in the way of development of this significant acreage remains the lack of public
access water, and that the extension of SCWA water into Orient AT THIS TIME constitutes a
direct threat to what the Town and the community have agreed for years is our most vital
resource. The LWRP states unequivocally, "in the eastern portion oftha Reach the potential for
new subdivision is high. It is expected that the recent extension of public water into East Marion
up to the Orient Causeway will facilitate further subdivisions." So we all agree on the threat
posed by public access water. We urge you, Town Board members, to continue your commitment
to preserve the valuable farmland and open space in Orient and protect the investment you have
already made by tabling this legislation temporarily, until the new Comprehensive Plan is
completed and the farmlands and open space of Orient are more securely protected.
Fm~lrica Wachsberger, April 6, 2010
I ECJEIVED
APR 6 20!0
I have been around long enough to remember with horror the two applications before this
town's planning board that would have changed Orient forever-- to build a convention
center with 100 condos at Orient Point, and to build a pseudo-colonial village of 55
homes on the historic Hallock Farm. Only the lack of access to adequate drinking water
prevented those developments from being approved. So this is why the proposal to bring
a pipeline to Orient before stronger protections against development are in place has
caused me great concern.
Those applications of the early 1980's galvanized the community and created what
would become its historic commitment to the preservation of farmland and open space, a
commitment shared by Town Government, as demonstrated by a change to 2 and 5 acre
zoning to protect the aquifer, and by the ongoing effort by town government to purchase
development rights. Town government has affirmed that commitment in documents such
as the LRWP and the zoning code. The importance of farmland preservation has been
emphasized in a report by the Controller of the State of New York, published only last
month, rifled "Economic Benefits of Open Space Preservation", which reiterates that
farmland and open space increase town revenues and deep individual taxes down.
We do not want this water main to go through to Orient before adequate protections
against development have been put in place. I have attended a meeting with the Town
Board at which the intention to create a water study of Orient, subsequent to the creation
of a water district, was affirmed, and a Town Board meeting at which it was stated that
the study was to be part of the discussion of the new consolidated plan. To pass this
amendment to the water map now, before that study is done, would put the cart before
the horse, and threaten all that we have collectively strived for.
I hope that the present Town Board will follow in the footsteps of its predecessors in their
concern for the preservation of the farmland, shellfishing industry, and open space of
Orient, and table this proposed legislation until the new comprehensive plan has been
completed and protective zoning is firmly in place.
Fredrica Wachsberger
President, Southold Citizens for Safe Roads
Former President, Orient Association
Trustee, Oysterponds Historical Society
April 6, 2010
Berliner, Sandra
Page 1 of 1
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
getscots@aol.com
Monday, April 05, 2010 4:55 PM
Russell, Scott
Lanza, Heather; Berliner, Sandra; input@orientwater, info
Subject: [NEWSENDER] - Orient Water_- Message is from an unknown sender
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
I thank those of you who recently visited Orient to discuss matters of concern to my
community. I thank you too for holding the Public Hearing this week on the proposed Water
Nain to Browns Hills, and for insisting that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the
necessary amene ment to the Town Water Ha p, completes an environmental study and
confirms that there is the necessary level of public interest in the pipeline. In doing this, you
are asking SCWA to follow the proper and lawful sequence of events.
know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and
of it.
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile
environments in Orient, and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and
little develcpment.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive
Plan for Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed a
environmental studies and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Scott Stein
145 Skippers Lane
Orient,NY
4/6/2010
Berliner, Sandra
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
John [johnand nina@earthlink.net]
Monday, April 05, 2010 4:46 PM
Russell, Scott
Lanza, Heather; Bediner, Sandra; input@orientwater.info
Orient Water Main
5;3o
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and
for insisting that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to
the Town Water Map, completes an environmental study and confirms that there is the
necessary level of public interest in the.pipeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to
follow the proper and lawful sequence of events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and
plenty of it~
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile
environments in Orient, and our.community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and
Lttle development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan
for Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all
environmental studies and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
John Winter
Orient
Address:
Berliner, Sandra
Page I of 1
From: Frederick R Orestuk[frorestuk@optimum.net]
Sent: Monday, April 05, 2010 4:40 PM
To: Russell, Scott
Cc: Lanza, Heather; Berliner, Sandra; input@orientwater.info
Subject: [NEWSENDER] - Orient Water Main - Message is from an unknown sender
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing o'n the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and for
insisting that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to the
Town Water Map, completes an environmental study and confirms that there is the necessary
level of public interest in the pipeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to follow the proper
and lawful sequence of events.
Plffise know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and plenty of
it.~
However, I also want. to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile environments in
Orient, and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and little development.
My request is. that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan for
Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has compleled all environmental
studies and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Frederick R Orestuk
A~ess:
38640 Main Road
Orient Point, NY, 11957
4/6/2010
Berliner, Sandra
Page 1 of 1
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Orientexpress414@aol.com
Tuesday, April 06, 2010 10:36 AM
Russell, Scott
Lanza, Heather; Berliner, Sandra; input@orientwater.info
Subject: Orient Water Main
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
My name is William Gibbons and I am 100% in favor of amending the town water
map to include portions of Orient and Orient Point as are many of my
neighbors along the Main road. Although we may not be as vocal ( or in some
cases as raucous ) as the small group opposing public water,we have
intelligently assessed the issue and feel that the benefits far out way any
negatives.
#1 - In my mind public water coming to Orient has always been an health issue
and not a prospect of over development. I was told by the Suffolk Dept. of
cl~lsth not to drink the water. That the water could be very dangerous if
umed bypregnant women,small children,people with acquired immune
deficiencies and people undergoing chemotherapy treatments.
# 2 - Public water would also provide increased fire protection because of
hydrants. I would also be able to install a sprinkler system in my home and
possibly reduce my home owners insurance.
# 3 - By having public water the value of my home would increase,rather then
decrease.
# 4 - It has always been my belief that our elected officials have an obligation to
promote and protect the health and well being of the community.
# $ - I beg you ,please amend the water map to include Orient.
Sincerely,
William Gibbons
Address:
Po box 414
Orient, NY 11957
4/6/2010
Orient Water Main
Berliner, Sandra
Page 1 of 1
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Malloy, Peter [pmalloy@stblaw.com]
Tuesday, April 06, 2010 11:03 AM
Russell, Scott
Lanza, Heather; Beriiner, Sandra; input@orientwater, info
Subject: [NEWSENDER] - Orient Water Main - Message is from an unknown sender
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank yOu for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and for
insisting that 5CWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to the
Town Water Map, completes an environmental study and confirms that there is the necessary
level of public interest in the pipeline. In doing this, you are asking 5CWA to follow the proper
and lawful sequence of events.
ple~l~ know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and plenty
of~
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile environments
in Orient, and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and little development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan
for Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all
environmental studies and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Peter Malloy
4/6/2~) 10
Berliner, Sandra
From:
Sent:
'ro:
Cc:
Schulz, Andrea L. [Andrea. Schulz@hmhpub.com]
Monday, April 05, 2010 4:24 PM
Russell, Scott
Lanza, Heather; Berliner, Sandra; input@orientwater, info
Subject: [NEWSENDER]. Orient Water Main - Message is from an unknown sender
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Page 1 of 1
4 1 'o
:go ..
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and for insisting
that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to the Town Water Map,
completes an environmental study and confirms that there is the necessary level of public interest in the
pipeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to follow the proper and lawful sequence of events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and plenty of it.
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile environments in Orient,
,r community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and little development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan for Southold
is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all environmental studies and obtained
all necessary permits,
Sincerely,
Andrea Schulz
145 Skippers Lane
Orient, NY 11957
4/6/2010
Berliner, Sandra
Page 1 of I
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Richard Gluckman [rgluckman@gluckmanmayner.com
Monday, April 05, 2010 3:32 PM
Russell, Scott
Lanza, Heather; Berline~:, Sandra; input@orientwater:info
Subject: Orient Water Main
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and for insisting
that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to the Town Water Map,
completes an environmental study and confirms that there is the necessary level of public interest in the
pipeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to follow the proper and lawful sequence of events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and plenty of it.
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile environments in Orient,
an~i~r community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and little development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan for Southold
is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all environmental studies and obtained
all necessary permits.
In addition, I wouldilike to thank Supervisor Russell for his clear and fair presentation at Poquatuck Hall
this past winter to explain the situation and answer questions.
I am strongly against the water main proposal. I do not think the cost to is justified in order to
serve the Browns Hills Association. My understanding is that the source of the water for this
water line is the wells in East Marion and that the cost of servicing the existing wells in Browns
Hills would never be amortized by the new water main. In addition, I am skeptical that today's
regulatory process can withstand developmental pressure in the future, especially with the sale of
Plum Island looming. I know it may not affect me but it will affect my kids.
I I~ve Stimulus Money would be better spent burying the Utility Lines from Riverhead to
Ori'/~it (or East Marion to Orient) as their vulnerability to storms affects far more people.
Sincerely,
Richard Gluckman
Address:
PO Box 554
Orient, NY 11957
4/6/2010
Berliner, Sandra
Page 1 of 1
From:
Sent:
To:
John Josephson [jjosephson~.ALLENCO.COM]
Monday, Apdl 05, 2010 4:41 PM
Russell, Scott
Lanza, Heather; Berliner, Sandra; input@orientwater, info
Subject: Orient Water Main
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and for
insisting that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to the
Town Water Map, coropletes an environmental study and confirms that there is the necessary
level of public interest in the pipeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to follow the proper
and lawful sequence of events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and ple. nty of
it.
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a waY that protects the fragile environments in
Orient, and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and little development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan for
Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all environmental
studies and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
John H. Josephson
900 Birdseye Road
New York 11957
This message is intended for the addressee only and may contain confidential or proprietary
information. Any use or copying of this message or the information it contains other than by an
intended recipient and for the purposes for which it was sent is prohibited. Allen & Company
reserves the right to monitor and archive all e-mail communications as legally allowed.8976446
4/6/2010
Berliner, Sandra
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
ian ogilvie [89thstreet@msn.com]
Tuesday, April 06, 2010 10:28 AM
Russell, Scott
Lanza, Heather; Berliner, Sandra; input@orientwater, info
[NEWSENDER] - Odent Water Main - Message is from an unknown sender
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and
for insisting that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to
the Town Water Map, completes an environmental study and confirms that there is the
necessary level of public interest in the pipeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to
follow the proper and lawful sequence of events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to Flean water and
plenty of it.
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fra§ile
environments in Orient, and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and
ttle development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan
for Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all
environmental studies and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Ian ogilvie
Address:
2100 youngs road, orient ny
Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T
Berliner, Sandra
Page 1 of 1
From: Orientexpress414@aol.com
Sent: Tuesday, April 06, 2010 10:36 AM
To: Russell, Scott
Cc: Lanza, Heather; Berliner, Sandra; input@orientwater.info
Subject: Orient Water Main
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
My name is William Gibbons and I am 100% in favor of amending the town water
map to include portions of Orient and Orient Point as are many of my
neighbors along the Main road. Although we may not be as vocal ( or in some
cases as raucous ) as the small group opposing public water,we have
intelligently assessed the issue and feel that the benefits far out waY any
negatives;
#1 - In my mind public water coming to Orient has always been an health issue
and not a prospect of over develoPment. I was told by the Suffolk Dept. of
I~lth not to drink the water. That the water could be very dangerous if
sumed by pregnant women,small children,people With acquired immune
deficiencies and people undergoing chemotherapy treatments.
# 2 - Public water would also provide increased fire protection because of
hydran~ .I would also be able to install a sprinkler system in my home and
possibly reduce my home owners insurance.
# 3 - By having public water the value of my home would increase,rather then
decrease.
# 4 -It has always been my belief that our elected officials have an obligation to
promote and protect the health and well being of the community.
# 5 - I beg you ,please amend the water map to include Orient.
Sincerely,
William Gibbons
Address:
Po box 414
Orient, NY 11957
4/6/2010
Berliner, Sandra
Page 1 of 1
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
farml@optonline.net
Tuesday, April 06, 2010 11:24 AM
Russell, Scott
Lanza, Heather; Berliner, Sandra; input@orientwater, info
Subject: Orient Water Main
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and for
insisting that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to the
Town Water Map, completes an environmental study and confirms that them is the necessary
level of public interest in the pipeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to follow the proper
and lawful sequence of events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and plenty of
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a W~y that prOtects the fragile environments in
Orient, and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and little development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan for
Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA. has completed all environmental
studies and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Cheryl Tortoriello
Hn7SS:
uthview Dr
· NY
4/6/2010
Berliner, Sandra
Page I of 1
From: Catherine Pino[cpino@purelogic.com]
Sent: Tuesday, April 06, 2010 11:24 AM
To: Russell, Scoff
Subject: [NEWSENDER] - Orient Water Main - Message is from an unknown sender
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hea~'ing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and for insisting
that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to the Town Water Map,
completes an environmental study and confirms that there is the necessary level of public interest in the
pipeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to follow the proper and lawful sequence of events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and plenty of it.
However, I also want to make su~:e this is done in a way that protects the fragile environments in Orient,
and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and little development.
M .~. uest is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive
Plan
for
Southold
is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all environmental studies and obtained
all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Catherine Pino
Address: 50 Cleaves Pt Rd, E Marion, NY 11939
4/6/2010
Berliner, Sandra
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Anne Hopkins [ashopkins@optimum.net]
Tuesday, April 06, 2010 11:49 AM
Russell, Scott
Lanza, Heather; Berliner, Sandra; input@orientwater, info
Orient Water Main
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Although I plan to be at the meeting later today I am sending this letter for the record.
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on t~e proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and
for insisting that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to
the Town Water Map, completes an environmental study and confirms that there is the
necessary level of public interest in the pipeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA t~
follow the proper and lawful sequence of events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and
plenty of it.
wver, make this is done in a that protects the fragile
I
also
want
to
sure
way
vironments in Orient, and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and
little development.
My request is that you'table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan
for Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all
environmental studies and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Anne Hopkins
Address: 380 Platt Road/PO Box 82, Orient, NY 11957
Berliner, Sandra
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Sharon Maguire [slmaguire@nyc.rr.com]
Tuesday, April 06, 2010 12:00 PM
Russell, Scott
Lanza, Heather; sandra.berliner@town:southold.ny. Us<input@orientwater. info
[NEWSENDER] - Orient Water Main - Message is from an unknown sender
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for
holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and for insisting
that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to the Town
Water Map, completes an environmental study and confirms that there is the necessary level
of public interest in the pipeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to follow the
proper and lawful sequence of events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and
plenty of it.
However, I also want to
ke sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile environments in Orient, and our
mmunity vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and little development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan
for Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all
environmental studies and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Sharon Maguire
530 Orchard Street
Orient~ NY 11957
Berliner, Sandra
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Seyi Peter-Thomas [Seyi. PeterThomas@mtvstaff.com]
Tuesday, April 06, 2010 12:06 PM
Russell, Scott
Lanza, Heather; sandra.berliner@town.southold.ny.us<input@orientwater.info
[NEWSENDER] -Orient Water Main - Message is from an unknown sender
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for
holding the Public Hearin9 on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and for insisting
that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to the Town
Water Map, completes an environmental study and confirms that there is the necessary level
of public interest in the pipeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to follow the
proper and lawful sequence Of events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and
plenty of it.
However, I also want to
~u%~%~ this is done in a way that protects the fragile environments in Orient, and our
vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and little development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan
for Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all
environmental studies and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Seyi Peter-Thomas
Berliner, Sandra
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
o
roma baran [rbaraniaw@gmail.com]
Tuesday, April 06, 2010 12:14 PM
Russell, Scott
Lanza, Heather; Berliner, Sandra
[NEWSENDER] - Proposed pipeline to Brown's Hills - Message is from an unknown sender
Dear Mr. Russell,
As a resident of Southold town, I urge you to postpone any action on this pipeline until
the area is protected under the'Master Plan. This is not just an esthetic issue. Any
action encouraging further unchecked development before protections take effect will
ultimately decrease the attractiveness of the area which supports all of our businesses.
Thank you.
Roma Baram
Berliner, Sandra
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
maryannlib85@aol.com
Tuesday, April 06, 2010 12:18 PM
Russell, Scott
MAL/RE:PROPOSED SCWA Pipeline to Browns Hills
Dear Mr. Russell,
This is to ask that you NOT ADD SCWA'S PROPOSED PIPELINE TO THE SOUTHOLD TOWN WATER MAP.
As a property owner in Orient, I would prefer a considered discussion of SCWA's water, not
the hurried approach SCWA is currently foisting on Orient. I want Orient protected by
proper zoning planned through the Southold Town Comprehensive Plan, which we've discussed
previously.
Until the Comprehensive Plan is passed into Southold Town law, and can be properly
implemented, I implore that you and your colleagues DELAY SCWA'S PROPOSED PIPELINE UNTIL
PROPER ZONING PROTECTION IS IN PLACE.
Respectfully,
MaryAnn Liberatore.
Berliner, Sandra
Page I of I
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Elizabeth Thompson [et@elizabeththompsonarchitect.com]
Monday, April 05, 2010 11:24 AM
Russell, Scott
Berliner, Sandra; input@orientwater.info
Subject: Orient Water Main
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and for
insisting that SCWA request an amendment to the Town Water Map before they go any further
with their plans. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to follow the proper sequence of events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and plenty
of it.
H(~ver, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile environments
in orient, and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and little development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan
for Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all
environmental studies and obtained all necessary permits.
I feel very strongly about thisH
Sincerely,
Elizabeth Thompson, R.A.
1655 Old Farm Rd.
P.~. 464, Orient
4/6/2010
Berliner, Sandra
Page I of 1
From: amy gross [amypgl@yahoo.com]
Sent: Sunday, April~ 04, 2010 9:08 PM
To: Russell, Scott
Cc: Berliner, Sandra
Subject: [NEWSENDER] - Orient Water Main - Message is from an unknown sender
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board:
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and for
insisting that SCWA request an amendment tG the Town Water Map before they go any further
with their plans. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to follow the proper sequence of events.
Please know that 1 want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and plenty
of it.
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile environment in
Orient and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and little development.
M~quest is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan
for Southold is in place and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all
environmental studies and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Amy Gross
740 Northview Drive
Orient, NY 11957
4/6/2010
Berliner, Sandra
Page 1 of 1
From: Monique Holmes [moholmes04@yahoo.com]
Sent: Tuesday, April 06, 2010 1:29 PM
To: Russell, Scott
Subject: [NEWSENDER] - Orient Water Main - Message is from an unknown sender
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
I am unable to attend the Public Hearing this evening on the proposed Water Main to Browns
Hills, but I wanted to send you my comments and thoughts on this issue. First, I would like to
thank you for holding the Public Hearing and for insisting that SCWA not proceed until and
unless it obtains the necessary amendment to the Town Water Map, completes an environmental
study and confirms that there is the necessary level of public interest in the pipeline. In doing
this, you are asking SCWA to follow the proper and lawful sequence of events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water, but I also
want to be sure that the SCWA proposal is the correct method. I also want to make sure this is
done in a way that protects the fragile environments in Orient, and our community vision to
maintain open spaces, farmland and little development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan for
Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all environmental
studies and obtained alt necessary permits~
Monique E. Holmes
Orient, New York
4/6/2010
Berliner, Sandra
Page 1 of 1
From: Holmes, H. Sidney [SHolmes@winston.com]
Sent: Tuesday, April 06, 2010 1:17 PM
To: Russell, Scott
Subject: Orient Water Main
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and for
insisting that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to the
Town Water Map, completes an environmental study and confirms that there is the necessary
level of public interest in the pipeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to follow the proper
and lawful sequence of events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water but I also
want to be sure that the SCWA proposal is the correct method. I also want to make sure this is
dotlf~in a way that protects the fragile environments in Orient, and our community vision to
m~lain open spaces, farmland and little development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan for
Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all environmental
studies and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Sidney Holmes
Orient, New York
bT~rontents of this message may be privileged and confidential Thefefore, if this message has
eceived in error, please delete it without reading it. Your receipt of this message is not
intended to waive any applicable privilege. Please do not disseminate this message without the
permission of the author.
Any tax advice contained in this email was not intended to be used. and cannot be used. by you
(or any other taxpayer) to avoid penalties under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.
4/6/2010
Orient Water Main
Berliner,-Sandra
Page I of 1
From: Michael Manuelian [orientny@aol.com]
Sent: Tuesday, April 06, 2010 1:05 PM
To: Russell, Scott
Cc: Lanza, Heather; Berliner, Sandra; input@orientwaterJnfo
Subject: Orient Water Main
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Heating on the proposed Water Main to
Browns Hills, and for insisting that SCWA not proceed until and unless
it obtains the necessary amendment to the Town Water Map, completes an
environmental study and confirms that there is the necessary level of
public interest in the plpeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to
follow the proper and lawful sequence of events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access
to clean water and plenty of it.
Hoter, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects
the fragile environments in Orient, and our community vision to
maintain open spaces; farmland and little development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the
Comprehensive Plan for Southold is in place, and until it has been
verified that SCWA has completed all environmental studies and
obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Michael Manuelian
Address: 715 Old Farm Road
Orient, NY 11957
4/6/20 t 0
Berliner, Sandra
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
atdcom@aol.com
Tuesday, April 06, 2010 1:24 PM
Russell, Scott
Lanza, Heather; Berliner, Sandra; input@orientwater.info
Orient Water Main
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and
for insisting that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to
the Town Water Map, completes an environmental study and confirms that there is the
necessary level of public interest in the pipeline. In dofng this, you are asking SCWA to
follow the proper and lawful sequence of events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and
plenty of it.
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile
environments in Orient, and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and
ttle development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan
for Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all
environmental studies and obtained all necessary permits.
Not to muddy the waters,. I would like to call your attention to a poll released by the
Group for The East End identifying the conservation issues of greatest concern and
interest to Southold residents. Water is our number one issue. Let us plan for a
sustainable future, break the development cycle and understand the true costs of
development over time and develop an actionable Comprehensive Plan for Southold.
Sincerely,
Anne Taylor Davis
e dress: 3940 Orchard Street, Orient, New York 11957-0480 Sent from my Verizon Wireless
ackBerry
Berliner, Sandra
Page l of 1
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Charles Dean [charles.dean@verizon.net]
Tuesday, April 06, 2010 1:26 PM
Russell, Scott
Lanza, Heather; Berliner, Sandra; input@orientwater, info
Subject: [NEWSENDER] - Orient Water Main - Message is from an unknown sender
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and for
insisting that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to the
Town Water Map, completes an environmental study and confirms that there is the necessary
level of public interest in the pipeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to follow the proper
and lawful sequence of events.
know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and plenty of
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile environments in
Orient, and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and little development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan for
Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all environmental
studies and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Charles Randall Dean
P.O. Box 307
295 Village Lane
Orient, New York 19957
Address:
4/6/2010
Berliner, Sandra
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Margaret Minichini [m3mini@mac.com]
. Tuesday, April 06, 2010 11:04 AM
Russell, Scott
Orient Water line
Scott - I am in favor of a moratorium on zoning changes until the Towns'
plan has been adopted.
The water line should wait until then.
Margaret Minichini
Sent from my iPhone
comprehensive
Berliner, Sandra
Page 1 of 1
From: pfded7585@aol.com
Sent: Tuesday, Apd106, 2010 12:06 PM
To: Russell, Scott
Subject: [NEWSENDER] - Public Hearing tonight - Message is from an unknown sender
Dear Supervisor Russell,
I can't thank you enough for holding this hearing tonight regarding the SWCA plans for the pipeline to
Brown's Hills. Unfortunately I am unable to attend but I do want to let you know my concerns as I Own a
home now for 13 years on Dam Pond, If you've never been on Dam Pond I invite you tO my home to
borrow my kayak and take a tour of this exquisite pond that leads to the Bay and sits on the Sound. Then
you will truly understand that I am in fear that without a full environmental impact study by SWCA we will
lose some of this beauty and unique ecosystem. We have osprey and great blue and night herons, There
are cormorans and buffle ducks and turtles that sun themselves all summer on a rock in the pond.
Yes, I want clean high quality water but I want to be suro thero is no cost to the beauty that Orient offers
) live and visit. All of Long Island has been developed and yes we want to maintain our open
and farmland: We do not want to look like Riverhead. Is that to much to ask of our public officials?
I hope you sharo our concerns and insist that thero be a full environmental impact study and
comprehensive plan for Southold.
Thank you so much. Paul Fried, 15155 Main Rd East Marion
4/6/2010
Russell, Scoff
Page 1 of 1
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Orientexpress414@aol.com
Tuesday, April 06, 2010 10:36 AM
Russell, Scott
Lanza, Heather; Berliner, Sandra; inpui@orientwater.info
Subject: Orient Water Main
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
My name is William Gibbons and I am 100% in favor of amending the town water map
to include portions of Orient and Orient Point as are many of my neighbors along the
Main road. Although we may not be as vocal ( or in some cases as raucous ) as the
small group opposing public water, we have intelligently assessed the issue and feel
that the benefits far out way any negatives.
#1 - In my mind public water coming to Orient has always been an health issue and
not a prospect of over development. I was told by the Suffolk Dept. of Health not to
drink the water. That the water could be very dangerous if consumed by pregnant
women,small children,people with acquired immune deficiencies and people
undergoing chemotherapy treatments.
# 2 - Public water would also provide increased fire protection because of hydrants. I
would also be able to install a sprinkler system in my home and possibly reduce my
home owners insurance.
# 3 - By having public water the value of my home would increase,rather then
decrease.
# 4 - It has always been my belief that our elected officials have an obligation to
promote and protect the health and well being of the community.
# 5 - I beg you ,please amend the water map to include Orient.
Sincerely,
William Gibbons
Address:
Po box414
Orient,NY 11957
4/6/2010
Orient Water Main
Berliner, Sandra
Page I of 1
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
martha geissinger [mjg.ny@vedzon.net]
Tuesday, April 06, 2010 2:12 PM
Russell, Scott
Lanza, Heather; Berliner, Sandra; input@orientwater, info
Subject: Orient Water Main
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to
Browns Hills, and for insisting that SCWA not proceed until and unless
it obtains the necessary amendment to the Town Water Map, completes an
environmental study and confirms that there is the necessary level of
public interest in the pipeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to
follow the proper and lawfid sequence of events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access
to clean water and plenty of it.
I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects
the fragile environments in Orient, and our community vision to
maintain open spaces, farmland and little development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the
Comprehensive Plan for Southold is in place, and until it has been
verified that SCWA has completed all environmental studies and
obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
martha gelssinger
Address: 1020 old farm rd.
orient, ny 11957
4/6/2010
Woodhull, Ruthanne
Page 1 of 1
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Richard Gluckman [rgluckman@gluckmanmayner.com]
Monday, April 05, 2010 3:32 PM
Russell, Scott
Lanza, Heather; Bediner, Sandra; input@orientwater.info
Subject: Odent Water Main
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and for insisting that
SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to the Town Water Map, completes an
environmental study and confirms that there is the necessary level of public interest in the pipeline. In doing this,
you are asking SCWA to follow the proper and lawful sequence of events.
Please know that I want every single person in Odent to have access to clean water and plenty of it.
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile environments in Odent, and our
community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and little development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan for Southold is in
place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all environmental studies and obtained all
necessary permits.
In addition, I would like to thank Supervisor Russell for his clear and fair presentation at Poquatuck Hall this past
winter to explain the situation and answer questions.
I am strongly against the water main proposal. I do not think the cost to is justified in order to serve the
Browns Hills Association. My understanding is that the source of the water for this water line is the
wells in East Marion and that the cost of servicing the existing wells in Browns Hills would never be
amortized by the new water main. In addition, I am skeptical that today's regulatory process can
withstand developmental pressure in the future, especially with the sale of Plum Island looming. I know
it may not affect me but it will affect my kids.
I believe Stimulus Money would be better spent burying the Utility Lines from Riverhead to Orient (or
East Marion to Orient) as their vulnerability to storms affects far more people.
Sincerely,
Richard Gluckman
Address:
PO Box 554
Orient, NY 11957
4/5/2010
Berliner, Sandra
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Joan Turturro [orientinn@earthlink.net]
Monday, April 05, 2010 3:54 PM
Russell, Scott
Lanza, Heather; Berliner, Sandra; input@orientwater.info
Orient Water Main
"rialto
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and
for insisting that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to
the Town Water Map, completes an environmental study and confirms that there is the
necessary level of public interest in the pipeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to
follow the proper and lawful sequence of events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and
plenty of it.
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile
environments in Orient, and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and
ttle development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan
for Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all
environmental studies and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Joan Turturro
Address:25500 Main Road
Orient, NY 11957
Berliner, Sandra
Page 1 of 1
From: Marguerite AOrestuk[morestuk@optonline.net]
Sent: Monday, April 05, 2010 3:43 PM
To: Russell, Scott
Cc: Lanza, Heather; Berliner, Sandra; input@orientwater, info
Subject: Orient Water Main
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and
for insisting that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to
the Town Water Map, completes an environmental study and confirms that there is the
necessary level of public interest in the pipeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to
follow the proper and lawful sequence of events.
~ase know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and plenty
of it.
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile environments
in Orient, and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and little
development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan
for Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all
environmental studies and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Orguerite Orestuk
Address: 38640 Main Road
Orient, NY 11957
4/5/2010
Berliner, Sandra
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Jeanne Markel [im.markel@gmail.com] on behalf of Jeanne Markel
[jean ne.markel@verizon.net]
Monday, April 05, 2010 3:34 PM
Russell, Scott
Lanza, Heather; Bediner, Sandra; input@orientwater.info
[NEWSENDER] - Orient Water Main - Message is from an unknown sender
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and
for insisting that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to
the Town Water Map, completes an environmental study and confirms that there is the
necessary level of public interest in the pipeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to
follow the proper and lawful sequence of events.
Please know that we want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and
plenty of it.
However, we also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile
O vironments in Orient, and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and
ttle development.
Our request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan
for Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all
environmental studies and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Jeanne Markel
Chris Wedge
P.O. Box 423
100 Harbor Road
Orient, NY 11957
Berliner, Sandra
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Jennifer Valentino [miss_fer98@yahoo.com]
Monday, April 05, 2010 3:33 PM
Russell, Scott
Lanza, Heather; Bediner, Sandra; input@orientwater.info
[NEWSENDER] - Orient Water Main - Message is from an unknown sender
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and
for insisting that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment, to
the Town Water Map, completes an environmental study and confirms that there is the
necessary level of public interest in the pipeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to
follow the proper and lawful sequence of events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and
plenty of it.
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile
environments in Orient, and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and
~ttle development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan
for Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all
environmental studies and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Carl and Jennifer Valentino
Address:
235 Latham Lane
Orient Point, NY 11957
~ Jenn Valentino
;1.334.1476
from my iPhone
Woodhull, Ruthanne
Page 1 of 1
-fi.
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Lynn Witt [allwittg9@gmail.com]
Monday, Apd105, 2010 2:42 PM
Russell, Scott
Lanza, Heather; Bediner, Sandra; input@orientwatar.info
Subject: [NEWSENDER] - Orient.Water System - Message is from an unknown sender
Dear Supen/isor Russell and Members of'the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and for insisting that
SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to the Town Water Map, completes an
environmental study and confirms that there is the necessary level of public interest in the pipeline. In doing this,
you are asking SCWA to follow the proper and lawful sequence of events.
As a part-time resident of Orient with a house in Brown's Hills, please know that I want every single person in
Orient to have access to clean water and plenty of it.
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile environments in Odent, and our
community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and little development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan for Southold is in
place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all environmental studies and obtained all
necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Lynn Witt
PO Box 543
Orient, NY 11957
4/5/2010
Woodhull, Ruthanne
Page 1 of 1
o
From: Anne MacKay [amackayl@optonline.net]
Sent: Monday, April 05, 2010 2:24 PM
To: Russell, Scott
Cc: Lanza, Heather; Bediner, Sandra; input@orientwater.info
Subject: Orient Water Main
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and for
insisting that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to the Town
Water Map, completes an environmental study and confirms that there is the necessary level of public
interest in the pipeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to follow the proper and lawful sequence of
events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and plenty of it.
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile environments in Orient,
and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and little development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan for
Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all environmental studies
and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Anne MacKay, P.O.Box 97 Orient, NY 11957
Address:
4/5/2010
Woodhull, Ruthanne
/ Page 1 of 1
From: JGAOTl@aol.com
Sent: Monday, April 05, 2010 3:02 PM
To: Russell, Scott
Cc: Lanza, Heather; Bediner, Sandra; input@orientwater.info
Subject: Orient Water Main
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and for insisting that
SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to the Town Water Map, completes an
environmental study and confirms that thero is the necessary level of public interest in the pipeline. In doing
this, you are asking SCWA to follow the proper and lawful sequence of events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and plenty of it.
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile environments in Orient, and
our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and little development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan for Southold is in
place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all environmental studies and obtained all
necessary permits.
Sincerely,
James Garretson
Address:
1620 Village Lane
Box 123
Orient,
NY 11957
4/5/2010
Woodhull, Ruthanne
FFom:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Rowe Carrick [carrickrowe@mac.com]
Monday, April 05, 2010 3:06 PM
Russell, Scott
Lanza, Heather; Berliner, Sandra; input@orientwater.info
[NEWSENDER] - Orient Water Main - Message is from an unknown sender
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and for
insisting that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to the Town
Water Map, completes an environmental study and confirms that there is the necessary level of public
interest in the pipeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to follow the proper and lawful sequence
of events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and plenty of it.
~Iowever, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile environments in
Orient, and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and little development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan for
Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all environmental
studies and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Carrick Rowe
Address:
Carrick Rowe Interiors
17o East 79th Street, 4B
New York, New York loo75
212-288-8379
carrickrowe@mac.com
Woodhull, Ruthanne
q/~ Page 1 of 1
From: Judith Woodard [dWoodard@christopherstreet. com]
Sent: Monday, April 05, 2010 3:06 PM
To: Russell, Scott
Ce: Lanza, Heather; Bediner, Sandra; input@orientwater.info
Subject: [NEWSENDER] - Orient Water Main - Message is from an unknown sender
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of thc Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and for
insisting that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to the Town
Water Map, completes an environmental study and confirms that there is the necessary level of public
interest in the pipeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to follow the proper and lawful sequence of
events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and plenty of it.
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile environments in Orient,
and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and little development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan for
Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all environmental studies
and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Judith Woodard
2005 Village Lane
PO Box 402
Orient, NY 11957
631-323~3714
' 4/5/2010
Woodhull, Ruthanne
Page 1 of 1
o
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Betty Rowe [errowe@optonline.net]
Monday, April 05, 2010 3:08 PM
Russell, Scott
Lanza, Heather
Subject: Orient Water Main
be=r Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills,
and for insisting that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary
amendment to the Town Water Map, completes an environmental study and confirms
that there is the necessary level of public interest in the pipeline. ]]n doing this, you
are asking SCWA to follow the proper and lawful sequence of events.
Please know that Z want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water
and plenty of it.
However, T also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile
environments in Orient, and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland
and little development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the
Comprehensive Plan for 5outhold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA
has completed all environmental studies and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Elizabeth R. Rowe
1850 Youngs Road, Orient
FREE Animations for your email - by IncredifVlail!
4/5/2010
Woodhull, Ruthanne
/7//~ /y,~e 1 of 1
From: Susan Gardner [sbgardner@att.net]
Sent: Monday, April 05, 2010 3:22 PM
To: Russell, Scott
Cc: Lanza, Heather; Bediner, Sandra; input@orientwater.info
Subject: [NEWSENDER] - Orient Water Main - Message is from an unknown sender
Dear Supervisor Russell and MEmbers of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Headng on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and for insisting that
SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to the Town Water Map, completes an
environmental study and confirms that thero is the necessary level of public interest in the pipeline. In doing this,
you are asking SCWA to follow the proper and lawful sequence of events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and plenty of it.
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile environments in Orient, and our
community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and little development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan for Southold is in
place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all environmental studies and obtained all
necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Susan Gardner
Susan B. Gardner
Architect
1465 Youngs Road
Orient, NY 11957
631 323 2723
SBGardner~att.net
4/5/2010
Berliner, Sandra
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Irene Bouchard [ibouchard@charter. net]
Monday, April 05, 2010 2:07 PM
Russell, Scott
Lanza, Heather; Berliner, Sandra; input@orientwater.info
Subject: [NEWSENDER] - Orient Water Main - Message is from an unknown sender
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and for
insisting that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to the
Town Water Map, completes an environmental study and confirms that there is the necessary
level of public interest in the pipeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to follow the proper
and lawful sequence of events.
know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and plenty of
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile environments in
Orient, and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and little development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan for
Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all environmental
studies and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Armand De Luca
1045 Uht Lane
Orient, NY 11957
tam sending this from out of town and will be unable to make the Town Hall meetirig. I regret that.
Address:
4/5/2010
Woodhull, Ruthanne
Page 1 of I
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Jesse Gordon [jessegordon@costellogordon.com]
Monday, April 05, 2010 1:56 PM
Russell, Scott
Lanza, Heather; Bediner, Sandra; input@orientwater.info
Subject: [NEWSENDER] - Orient Water Main - Message is from an unknown sender
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board, ,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and for
insisting that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to the Town
Water Map, completes an environmental study and confirms that there is the necessary level of public
interest in the pipeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to follow the proper and lawful sequence of
events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and plenty of it.
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile environments in Orient,
and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and little development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan for
Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all environmental studies
and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Jesse and Elizabeth Gordon
Address: 1750 Northview Drive
Orient, NY
Jesse Gordon
Costello & Gordon LLP
1790 Broadway
Suite 710
New York, NY 10019
Telephone: (212) 765-8600
Facsimile (212) 765-7887
This e-mail is sent by a law firm and contains information that may be
privileged and confidential. If you are not the intended recipient, please
delete the e-mail and any attachments and notify us immediately.
4/5/2010
Page 1 of 1
From: bebonham@aol.com
Sent: Sunday, April 04, 2010 4:23 PM
To: undisclosed-recipients
Subject: Orient and water
Sirs,
My name is Barbara Stires and I own property at 25825 Main Road, Orient. Unfortunately, I cannot be at the
April 6th public hearing.
I have serious concerns regarding the Suffolk County Water Authority proposal to extend their water service
as far as Brown's Hills.
I do believe an environmental review must be completed, as well as the comprehensive plan for Southold and
for our hamlet of Orient.
As our elected representatives, hopefully you will resist the pressure of the Suffolk County Water Authority
to "hurry up", especially since there are too many unanswered questions that affect all the existing taxpayers
in Orient and beyond here on the North Fork.
Sincerely,
Barbara B. Stires
P.S. I tried to send this to the trustees, but it wouldn't go through.
4/5/2010
Woodhull, Ruthanne
Page 1 of 1
From: Marianne Fahs [mfahs@hunter.cuny.edu]
Sent: Monday, April 05, 2010 12:21 PM
To: Russell, Scott
Cc: Bediner, Sandra; input@orientwater.info
Subject: [NEWSENDER] - Orient Water Main - Message is from an unknown sender
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Brqwns Hills, and for insisting
that SCWA request an amendment to the Town Water Map before they go any further with their plans.
In doing this, you are asking 5£WA to follow the proper sequence of events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and plenty of it.
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile environments in
Orient, and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and little development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan for
Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that S£WA has completed all environmental studies
and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Marianne C Fahs
Address: Box 464, Orient, New York, 11957
4/5/2010
Woodhull, Ruthanne
Frorni
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Mary D. Dorman [mdd2@juno.com]
Monday, April 05, 2010 12:38 PM
Russell, Scott
[NEWSENDER] - Orient Water Main - Message is from an unknown sander
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and for
insisting that SCWA request an amendment to the Town Water Map before they go any further with
their plans. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to follow the proper sequence of events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and plenty of it.
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that profects the fragile environments in
Orient, and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and little development.
~ly request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan for
Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all environmental
studies and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Mary D. Dorman, Esq.
300 Cedar Brich Lane
Orine,t NY 11957
Oddress:
Get Free Email with Video Mail & Video Chat!
http://www.juno.eom/freeemail?refed=JUTAGOUT~FREMo21o
Woodhull, Ruthanne
Page 1 of 1
From: Elizabeth Thompson [et@elizabeththompsonarchitect.com]
Sent: Monday, April 05, 2010 11:24 AM
To: Russell, Scott
Cc: Berliner, Sandra; input@orientwater, info
Subject: Orient Water Main
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and for insisting
that SCWA request an amendment to the Town Water Map before they go any further with their plans.
In doing this, you are asking SCWA to follow the proper sequence of events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and plenty of it.
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile environments in
Orient, and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and little development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan for
Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all environmental studies
and obtained all necessary permits.
I feel very strongly about this!!
Sincerely,
Elizabeth Thompson, R.A.
1655 Old Farm Rd.
P.O.B. 464, Orient
4/5/2010
Woodhull, Ruthanne
Page 1 of 1
From: jfried 172@aol.com
Sent: Monday, April 05, 2010 10:09 PM
To: Russell, Scott
Subject: [NEWSENDER] - SWCA in Orient - Message is from an unknown sender
Dear Supervisor Russell, .
We live on the causeway in East Marion and on Dam Pond. Wewake up in the summer to the
osprey fishing in Dam Pond and in the winter to the buffie ducks diving for their food. We pluck
clams and mussels and now blue claw crabs from the pond. The beauty is immense and any
possibility of upsetting the fragile environment there would be a complete heartbreak and likely
irreversible.
When we attempted to place a very short walkway onto the pond DEC scrutinized it with an eye towards
preserving the sea vegetation that might be disturbed. I don't understand how a major project that SWCA has
proposed could be approved without an independent environmental study.
Please, support the delay of this project until all the environmental studies are completed and it is agreed that
Dam Pond will not be disturbed.
4/6/2010
Berliner, Sandra
Page 1 of I
From:
Sent:
To.'
C¢:
Bartenope, Steve [bartes@nytimes.com]
Tuesday, April 06, 2010 2:25 PM
Russell, Scott
Lanza, Heather; Berliner, Sandra; 'input@orientwater. info'
Subject: [NEWSENDER] - Orient Water Main - Message is from an unknown sender
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and for insisting
that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to the Town Water Map,
completes an environmental study and confirms that there is the necessary level of public interest in the
pipeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to follow the proper and lawful sequence of events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and plenty of it.
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile environments in orient,
r community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and tittle development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan for Southol(J
is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all environmental studies and obtained
all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Theresa and Steve BaAenope
4/6/2010
04-0b='10 lq:M/ PHU~-Apple ~anK
April 6, 2010
:zo p .
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Heating on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills,
and for insisting that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary
amendment to the Town Water Map, completes an environmental study and confirms that
there is the necessary level of public interest in the pipeline. In doing this, you are asking
SCWA to follow the proper and lawful sequence of events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and
plenty of it.
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile
environments in Orient, and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and
little development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive
Plan for Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all
environmental studies and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
A tess;
Woodhull, Ruthanne
Page 1 of 1
From: norules75(~aol.com
Sent: Tuesday, April 06, 2010 8:26 AM
To: Russell, Scott
Subject: [NEWSENDER] - SCWA water main non extension - Message is from an unknown sender
PLEASE stop the water main extension in Orient.
Thanks,
Chester Mayer
2265 King St.
Orient, NY
11957
631 323 3642
4/6/2010
Woodhull, Ruthanne
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Tom Stevenson [ampell@optonline.net]
Tuesday, April 06, 2010 7:43 AM
Russell, Scott
no to SCWA main to Orient
Scott-
Just add me to the list of those opposed to bringing the water main into Orient.
Thanks so much in your efforts to stop it.
Thanks,
Tom Stevenson
AOL Email
Woodhull, Ruthanne
.Page 1 of 1
From: Goldstag@aol.com
Sent: Monday, April 05, 2010 11:36 PM
To: Russell, Scott
Subject: [NEWSENDER] - Re:SCWA's plan - Message is from an unknown sender
Please delay plan to extend water mains to Orient until Southold Town has put in place adequate
environmental protections.
Thank you,
Robert Gordon
355 South View Drive
Browns Hills
Orient
NYC Address:
Bob Gordon
212 725-8761
401 First Avenue 21D
New York NY 10010
4/6/2010
Brown's Hills Estates, Inc.
P.O.Box 254
Orient, New York 11957
Supervisor Scott Russell and the Southold Town Board
Southold Town
53095 Route 25
Southold, NY
April 6, 2010
Re: Local Law to amend the Town of Southold water supply
plan map extending a water transmission main to the
Browns Hills subdivision in Orient
Dear Supervisor Russell and members and the Southold Town Board;
I~ly name is Venetia Hands and ! am a member of the Browns Hills community in
Orient. I was chosen by the Browns. Hills community to lead our investigation of and
response to SCWA's plans to connect their pipeline in East F4arion to the Browns Hill
system.
We were unanimous in agreeing last October that we did not want to be passive
participants in triggering a development boom in Orient. We also learned, from
SCWA representatives, that Browns Hills' drinking water is purer today than it will
be when SCWA brings us water from East Marion.
! wrote to Mr. Jones at the time asking SCWA to please halt their project at least
until it has been given proper public hearing at the Southold Town Board, the water
map has been updated, environmental concerns have been settled - and
protections are in place to prevent development.
Our letter received no response.
But, thanks to you, the Board and some other activities, we are here tonight having
a Public Hearing.
On behalf of Browns Hills and many other people in Orient, ! want to thank you for
insisting that SCWA request an amendment to the Town Water Map before they go
any further. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to follow the proper sequence of
events.
! also want to make it very clear that we want every single person in Orient to have
clean water. We are not saying "No" to this pipeline. We are saying "Not yet".
We want water to come to Orient in the right way and in the right sequence. We
ask you to table, this amendment to the water map until everything that should be
done first has been done.
What are these things that must be done first?
Before anyone digs that hole to go under Dam Pond, all .environmental
reviews, precautions and permits need to be in place. Dam Pond is a very
.fragile ecosystem, as you say in the Dam Pond brochure.
More protections need to be given to Orient to ensure a water main does not
trigger development. Mr. De Luca, President of Group for the East End told us
earlier this year that Orient is vulnerable to rezoning because we have only
one protection against development: lack of adequate ground water. Other
areas have multiple protections. We need to get these in place for Orient
through the Comprehensive Plan, before the pipeline comes in.
Every resident of Orient should be invited to say whether they want SWCA
water. That means all 700+ residents in Orient not just the 100+ on the
pipeline route. !t is clear, as you have all noted, that SCWA's long-term
intentions are to bring water to everyone in Orient. This is what they told NY
State when they requested stimulus funds. And it just does not make sense
to spend something in the region of $25,000 per home for Browns Hills and
those on the main road.
In sum,
· We want clean water for everyone
· Our concerns are with doing the right thing, ~n the right sequence
· We ask you to table this law until all the earlier steps have been fulfilled.
Sincerely,
Venetia Hands
2
Woodhull, Ruthanne
P. age l of 1
From: orientlinenco@aoLcom
Sent: Monday, Aprir05, 2010 11:35 PM
To: Russell, Scott
Subject: from Janet Markarian re: Orient Pipeline
Dear Mr Russell:
I am a resident of Orient, writing to you now to express my concern regarding the current planning for the
proposed water pipeline to Brown's Hills.
Many of us in Orient have an interest in obtaining the highest quality of water. But not at the cost of our fragile
environment, treasured landscape and natural beauty. Our community has a vision - to maintain open spaces
and farmland with limited development and high density housing. It is dear that the only way to go about this is
local control.
Thank you for giving us the opportunity for a public hearing regarding this proposed water main.
We insist that SCWA request an amendment to the Town Water Map before they go any
further with their plans.
We insist that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan for
Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all environmental
studies and obtained all necessary Permits.
Once Southold Town's Master Plan is in place to protect our shared beautiful environment,
then will be the right time to install SCWA's pipeline.
Sincerely,
Janet Markarian
1100 Village Lane
PO Box 536
Odent, New York 11957
tel: (631) 477 8353
4~6~2010
Woodhull, Ruthanne
Page 1 of 1
From: Cathleen Casey (NY) [ccasey@tzell.com]
Sent: Monday, April 05, 2010 6:25 PM
To: Russell, Scott
Subject: [NEWSENDER] - Orient Water Main -'Message is from an unknown sender
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and for insisting
that 5CWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to the Town Water Map,
completes an environmental study and confirms that there is the necessary level of public interest in
the pipeline. In doing this, you are asking 5CWA to follow the proper and lawful sequence of events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and plenty of it.
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile environments in
Orient, and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and little development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan for
5outhold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all environmental studies
and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Cathleen M. Casey
1320 Hillcrest Drive
Orient, NY, 11957
Address:
4/6/2010
Woodhull, Ruthanne
Page 1 of 1
From: david backus [david@backusmarland.com]
Sent: Monday, April 05, 2010 8:45 PM
To: Russell, Scott
Subject: [NEWSENDER] - orient water - Message is from an unknown sender
Dear Supervisor Russell,
We want a say in planning our water future, to protect:
Our desire for the highest quality water, for all in Orient
Our fragile environments in Orient
Our community vision to maintain open spaces & farmland with little development
Our efforts to maintain local control
We want to thank the Town for:
Holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills.
Insisting that SCWA request an amendment to the Town Water Map before they go
any further with their plans.
We want to ask the town to:
Insist that SCWA continue to follow the proper sequence of events.\
Table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan for Southold is
in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all environmental
studies and obtained all necessary permits.
Once Southold Town's Master Plan is in place to protect our shared beautiful environment, then
will be the right time to install SCWA's pipeline.
Sincerely
David Backus & Deborah Marland
1215 South View Dr.
Orient Point NY 3.:[957
4/6/2010
Woodhull, Ruthanne
Page 1 of 1
From: Daniel Fischer [dfischer@optonline.net]
Sent: Monday, April 05, 2010 10:04 PM
To: Russell, Scott
Cc: maryannlib85@aol,com
Subject: SCWA
Dear Mr. Russell,
As an Orient resident and a lifelong resident of Southold Town, I would like to go on record as being
unequivocally opposed to the expansion of SWCA across the causeway into Orient. We have an adequate
aquifer to sustain the population and the plume that has plagued several of the residents in Orient by the Sea
development was man made- draining a large boats fuel directly into a driveway. Our well water several
hundred feet away is quite potable, and unlike SWCA's water, palatable as well.
Mr. Jones' argument that the availability of public water does not encourage development is spurious. I grew up
in Southold hamlet and bicycle miles to spread out houses in 8ayview. Once public water was available,
suddenly all the quarter acre lots that the county health department deemed unbuildable were the site of
oversized houses on undersized lots.
My wife, and adult son join me in opposition to changing the map to allow this unwanted expansion
Yours sincerely, Dan Fischer
4/6/2010
Woodhull, Ruthanne
Page 1 of 1
From: Chris Wedge [jchris.wedge@gmail.com]
Sent: Monday, April 05, 2010 4:20 PM
To: Russell, Scott
Subject: [NEWSENDER] - Orient Pipeline - Message is from an unknown sender
Dear Scott,
As a homeowner in Orient I urge you to consider postponing the decision on the Southold water
pipeline.
I feel strongly that a comprehensive plan for development in our village should be in place before any
plan for a water line goes forward.
Youm Sincerely,
Chris Wedge
4/6/2010
Berliner, Sandra
Page 1 of 1
o
From: Liz Welch [lizmorganwelch@gmail.com]
Sent: Tuesday, April 06, 2010 8:20 AM
To: Russell, Scott; Lanza, Heather; Berliner, Sandra
Cc: Gideon D'Amangelo; input@orientwater, info
Subject: [NEWSENDER] - Orient's fragile environment takes precendence - Message is from an unknown sender
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to
Browns Hills, and for insisting that SCWA not proceed until and unless it
obtains the necessary amendment to the Town Water Map, completes an
environmental study and confirms that there is the necessary level of public
interest in the pipeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to follow the
proper and lawful sequence of events.
P~se know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean
water and plenty of it.
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the
fragile environments in Orient, and our community vision to maintain open
spaces, farmland and little development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the
Comprehensive Plan for Southold is in place, and until it has been verified
that SCWA has completed all environmental studies and obtained all
necessary permits.
S~erely,
Liz Welch and Gideon D'Arcangelo
230 Vincent Street
PO Box 293
Orient, NY 11957
4/6/2010
Berliner, Sandra
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
martin brierley [martin.brierley@mac.com]
Tuesday, April 06, 2010 7:53 AM
Russell, Scott
Lanza, Heather; Berliner, Sandra; input@orientwater.info
[NEWSENDER] - Orient Water Main - Message is from an unknown sender
Dear SuperviSor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Hi Scott,
Below is the round robin text which you will have received from others keen not to
compromise what we so cherish about Orient. I'm adding my voice, as it seems clear that
the way things are progressing might endanger the fragile balance that exists between
people and beautiful landscape. We all love clean water, but it should be brought to the
area with the proper safeguards against over development.
Unfortunately I am unable to attend tonight's hearing, for which my aplogies.
Ohank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and
or insisting that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to
the Town Water Map, completes an environmental study and confirms that there is the
necessary level of public interest in the pipeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to
follow the proper and lawful sequence of events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and
plenty of it.
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile
environments in Orient, and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and
little development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan
for Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all
environmental studies and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Brierley
Address:
1300 Youngs Road
Berliner, Sandra
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Julia Warr [juliawarr@mac.com]
Tuesday, April 06, 2010 7:31 AM
Russell, Scott
Lanza, Heather; Berliner, Sandra; input@orientwater, info
[NEWSENDER] - Orient Water Main - Message is from an unknown sender
'10
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and
for insisting that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to
the Town Water Map, completes an environmental study and confirms that there is the
necessary level of public interest in the pipeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to
follow the proper and lawful sequence of events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and
plenty of it.
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile
environments in Orient, and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and
ttle development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan
for Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all
environmental studies and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Dexter Brierley
Address:
1300 Youngs Road, Orient, 11957
Berliner, Sandra
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Susan A. Forbes [susan@forbes-ergasdesign.com]
Tuesday, April 06, 2010 7:37 AM
Russell, Scott
Lanza, Heather; Bediner, Sandra; input@orientwater.info
[NEWSENDER] - Orient Water Main - Message is from an unknown sender
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and
for insisting that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to
the Town Water Map, completes an environmental study and confirms that there is the
necessary level of public interest in the pipeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to
follow the proper and lawful sequence of events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and
plenty of it.
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile
environments in Orient, and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and
ittle development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan
for Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all
environmental studies and obtained all necessary permits.
Thank you for your immediate attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Susan A Forbes
1075 Narrow River Road
Orient, NY 11957
Address:
Berliner, Sandra
From: Robin Mayer[robinlmayer@me.com]
Sent: Tuesday, April 06, 2010 8:11 AM
To: Russell, Scott
Cc: Lanza, Heather; Berliner, Sandra; input@orientwater.info
Subject: [NEWSENDER] - Orient Water Main - Message is from an unknown sender
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and for
insisting that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to the
Town Water Map, completes an environmental study and confirms that there is the necessary
level of public interest in the pipeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to follow the proper
and lawful sequence of events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and plenty
Page 1 of 1
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile environments in
Orient, and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and little development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan for
Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all environmental
studies and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Robin Mayer
PO Box 367
2265King St.
Orient, NY 11957
Address:
Robin Mayer
robinlongmayer~mail.com
? 17-860-7215
http://www.robinlongmayer.com
4/6/2010
Berliner, Sandra
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Karen Braziller [kbraziller@perseabooks.com]
Tuesday, April 06, 2010 6:51 AM
Russelt, Scott
Lanza, Heather; Berliner, Sandra; input@orientwater, info
Orient Water Main
5;
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
I will be attending the Public Hearing today, but want to add my name to those who have
already spoken up through this email, as I may not have a chance to speak. All we are
asking for it the time to understand our options and to make a plan that considers the
fragile environment of Orient, the open space which we all cherish--and which is a major
reason for the North Fork's growing popularity, and therefore adds to the economic
wellbeing of the whole region. We must protect our natural landscape, and that means
minimizing development,
I believe that many residents of Orient are unaware that the "public"
water is actually not so clean, and certainly is not free. The word "public" is
misleading.
ee want clean water, but we want it affordable, really clean, and without harmful impact
on our surroundings.
I've been to several meetings about this issue already, and I know that you support us in
our goals. Thank you very much for this. We feel you truly know Orient for the special
place it is and that you cherish Orient as we do. It is based on a fragile balance of
human use and
open space, and easily lost. Please do EVERYTHING you can do to
preserve it.
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing. I'll be there.
Sincerely,
Karen Braziller
ddress: 640 Village Lane, Orient 11957
Berliner, Sandra
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Ann ffolliott [affolliott@mac.com]
Monday, April 05, 2010 10:18 PM
Russell, Scott
Lanza, Heather; Berliner, Sandra; input@orientwater.info
[NEWSENDER] - Orient Water Main - Message is from an unknown sender
Dear Supervisor Russell and Menlbers of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and
for insisting that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to
the Town Water Map, completes an environmental study and confirms that there i~ the
necessary level of public interest in the pipeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to
follow the proper and lawful sequence of events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and
plenty of it.
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile
environments in Orient, and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and
ittle development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan
for Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all
environmental studies and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Ann ffolliott
Address:
390 Oyster Pond Lane
Orient, NY. 11956
Sent from my iPhone
Berliner, Sandra
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Jeanne Betancourt [ibetancourt@rcn.com]
Monday, April 05, 2010 10:17 PM
Russell, Scott
Lanza, Heather; Berliner, Sandra; input@orientwater, info
[NEWSENDER] - Orient Water Main - Message is from an unknown sender
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and
for insisting that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to
the Town Water Map, completes an environmental study and confirms that there is the
necessary level of public interest in the pipeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to
follow the proper and lawful sequence of events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and
plenty of it.
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile
environments in Orient, and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and
ttle development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan
for Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all
environmental studies and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Jeanne Betancourt
250 Youngs Road
Orient, NY 11957
Berliner, Sandra
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Ellen McNeilly [ejmcneilly@earthlink.net]
Monday, April 05, 2010 9:53 PM
Russell, Scott
Berliner, Sandra; input@orientwater, info
SCWA's proposed transmission main
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and
for insisting that SCWA not continue to ride roughshod over yourself and the Board,
requiring it to not proceed with its project unless and until it obtains from Southold
Town the necessary amendment to the Town Water Map, completes the required environmental
study, and confirms and documents that there is the
necessary level of public interest in the pipeline. In doing this,
you are asking SCWA to follow the proper and lawful sequence of events, so far as the Town
is concerned.
To date, SCWA has neither applied for nor received the necessary permit from the Army
Corps of Engineers, which SCWA requires for the project. If they do not have this permit,
can Southold Town permit them to proceed? Their callous disregard for Southold Town
~rnment procedures as well as Federal requirements, has resulted in the issue being
referred to Inspectors General at'New York State and Federal (EPA) levels.
Please understand: I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water.
However, I also want to make sure this is done lawfully and in a way that protects the
fragile environments in Orient, including our aquifer, as well as our community vision to
maintain open spaces, farmland and little development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan
for Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all
environmental studies and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
:llen McNeilly
Vincent Street
205 willow Street
Orient, NY 11957
Berliner, Sandra
Page 1 of 1
From: edandclaire [edandclaire@optonline.net]
Sent: Tuesday, April 06, 2010 8:44 PM
To: Russell, Scott
Cc: Lanza, Heather; Berliner, Sandra; input@orientwater.info
Subject: Orient Water Main
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and for
insisting that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to the
Town Water Map, completes an environmental study and confirms that there is the necessary
level of public interest in the pipeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to follow the proper
and lawful sequence of events.
know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and plenty of
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile environments in
Orient, and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and little development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan for
Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all environmental
studies and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
EDARD J>WRIGHT
510 NAVY STREET ORIENT N>Y> 11957
4/6/2010
Berliner, Sandra
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Marshall Johnson [layabout@optonline.net]
Monday, April 05, 2010 7:42 PM
Russell, Scott
Lanza, Heather; Berliner, Sandra; input@orientwater.info
Orient Water Main
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and
for insisting that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to
the Town Water Map, completes an environmental study and confirms that there is the
necessary level of public interest in the pipeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to
follow the proper and lawful sequence of events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and
plenty of it.
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile
nvironments in Orient, and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and
ttle development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan
for Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all
environmental studies and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Marshall Johnson
320 North View Drive
Browns Hills
Orient, NY 11957
Address:
Berliner, Sandra
Page 1 of 1
From: Andrea Rowsom[afrowsom@optonline.net]
Sent: Monday, April 05, 2010 6:29 PM
To: Russell, Scott
Cc: Lanza, Heather; Berliner, Sandra; input@orientwater.info
Subject: Orient Water Main
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and for
insisting that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to the
Town Water Map, completes an environmental study and confirms that there is the necessary
level of public interest in the pipeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to follow the proper
and lawful sequence of events.
Pllllge know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and plenty of
it.~
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile environments in
Orient, and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and little development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan for
Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all environmental
studies and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
_Andrea Rowsom, an Orient resident for over 40 years!
4/6/2010
Berliner, Sandra
Page 1 of 1
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Linda Hossenlopp [hossenlopp@comcast.net]
Monday, April 05, 2010 6:14 PM
Russell, Scott
Lanza, Heather; Bediner, Sandra; input@orientwater, info
Subject: [NEWSENDER] - Orient Water Main - Message is from an unknown sender
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and for
insisting that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to the
Town Water Map, completes an environmental study and confirms that there is the necessary
level of public interest in the pipeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to follow the proper
and lawful sequence of events.
~l~e know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and plenty of
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile environments in
Orient, and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and little development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan for
Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all environmental
studies and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
__George & Linda Hossenlopp
1700 Village Lane
Orient, NY 11957
4/6/2010
Berliner, Sandra
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Priscilla Bull. [priscillabull@gmail.com] on behalf of Priscilla Bull [mabull@optonline.net]
Monday, April 05, 2010 6:14 PM
Russell, Scott
Lanza, Heather; Berliner, Sandra; input@orientwater, info
Orient Water Main
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and
for insisting that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to
the Town Water Map, completes an environmental study and confirms that there is the
necessary level of public interest in the pipeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to
follow the proper and lawful sequence of events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and
plenty of it.
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile
environments in Orient, and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and
ittle development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan
for Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all
environmental studies and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Priscilla Bull
34750 Main Road
Orient, NY 11957
Berliner, Sandra
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
claeys bahrenburg [claeysbahrenburg@gmail.com]
Monday, April 05, 2010 5:48 PM
Russell, Scott
Lanza, Heather; Berliner, Sandra; input@orientwater.info
[NEWSENDER] - Orient Water Main - Message is from an unknown sender
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and
for insisting that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to
the Town Water Map, completes an environmental study and confirms that there is the
necessary level of public interest in the pipeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to
follow the proper and lawful sequence of events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and
plenty of it.
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile
environments in Orient, and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and
[ttle development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan
for Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all
environmental studies and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
claeys bahrneburg
300 west bay ave, orient, ny 11957
Address:
Berliner, Sandra
Page 1 of 1
From: DWhitsit@aol.com
Sent: Monday, April 05, 2010 5:24 PM
To: Russell, Scott
Cc: Lanza, Heather; Berliner, Sandra; input@orientwater, info
Subject: Orient Water Main
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hilis, and
for insisting that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to
the Town Water Map, completes an environmental study and confirms that there is the
necessary level of public interest in the pipeline, In doing this, you are asking SCWA to
follow the proper and lawful sequence of events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and
~ty of it.
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile
environments i~ Orient, and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and
little development
Dear Scott:
We request that you table this amenomen[ :o rne water mad undl the Comprehensive Plan
for Southold is in place, and until it nas [}een verified that SCWA has comp e[ea aH
environmental studies and obtained all necessary permits
Cordially,
Diana Whitsit
)hanie Alford
; Main Road
Orient, NY 11957
Tel631 323 1364
Diana Whi~it
Fresh Pond Travel
1 800 225 4897
www.freshpondtravel.com
4/6/2010
Berliner, Sandra
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Walter Millis [wmillis@optonline.net]
Monday, April 05, 2010 5:13 PM
Russell, Scott
Lanza, Heather; Berliner, Sandra; input@orientwater, info
Orient Water Main
ALTHOUGH THIS LETTER IS PREPARED BY ANOTHER, WE ARE SENDING IT UNDER OUR NAME BECAUSE IT
CLEARLY EXPRESSES OUR FEELINGS ON THIS MATTER.
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on t~e proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and
for insisting that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to
the Town Water Map, completes an environmental study and confirms that there is the
necessary level of public interest in the pipeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to
follow the proper and lawful sequence of events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and
plenty of it.
, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile
environments in Or'ient, and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and
little development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan
for Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all
environmental studies and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Walter and Alison Millis
1800 Village Lane
Orient
~ress:
Berliner, Sandra
Page I of 1
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Frankei, Oliver [Sec Oiv] [oliver.frankel@gs.com]
Monday, April 05, 2010 5:00 PM
Russell, Scoff
Lanza, Heather; Berliner, Sandra; 'input@orientwater.info'
Subject: [NEWSENDER] - Orient Water Main - Message is from an unknown sender
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and for
insist.ing that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to the
Town Water Map, completes an environmental study and confirms that there is the necessary
level of public interest in the pipeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to follow the proper
and lawful sequence of events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and plenty
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile environments
in Orient, and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and little development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan
for Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that 5CWA has completed all
environmental studies and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Oliver Frankel
Address: 590 Willow Terrace Lane, Orient Village.
' 4/6/2010
Berliner, Sandra
Page 1 of 1
From: Ybreuer@aol.com
Sent: Monday, April 05, 2010 4:56 PM
To: Russell, Scott
Cc: Lanza, Heather; Berliner, Sandra; input@orientwater.info
Subject: [NEWSENDER] - Orient Water Main - Message is from an unknown sender
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and for insisting
that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to the Town Water Map,
completes an environmental study and confirms that there is the necessary level of public interest in
the pipeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to follow the proper and lawful sequence of events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and plenty of it.
However, I also want to make'suro this is done in a way that protects the fragile environments in Orient,
and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and little development.
~equest is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan for
Southoid is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all environmental studies
and obtained att necessary permits.
Sincerely,
._yvonne breuer/robert augustine
Address:50 three waters lane, orient ny 11957
4/6/2010
M~rch 31, 2010
The Honoeable Scott A. Russell
Supervisor Town of Southold
P.O. Box # 1179
53~95 Rte. 25
Southold, New York 11971
Dear Supervisor Russell:
I was stunned to read the SCWA "survey" sent out to homeowners
concerning the water main they intend to instaIl along Main Road to the
Brown HilIs Pump Station. I was aIso surprised to read that they couId
suppIy this water to any "existing" business establishments along this
route. To the best of my knowledge, there are only twa businesses along
this route at the present time. I do not think of The Orient
Congregational Church as a "business".
I fully understand the Town Board's request for a survey of homeowners
along this extension route. The Town Board needs to know how much
current and future demand there may be for public water provided by
SWCA.
However, the survey sent out by Mr. Stephen Jones, CEO of the Suffolk
County Water Authority, is NOT a survey in the true sense of the word.
As someone who has designed and directed marketing research studies alt
over the ~rld for more than 4~ years For McCann-Ertckson Worldwide and
tls premier clients, the first order of conducting a survey ts to
insure that tt ts 10e~ fair and objective.
This survey by the SCWA is neither fair nor objective. ~t ts pure sates
promotion. Please allow me to explain why tt ts not a legitimate
survey: It promotes no less than nine benefits of signing up for public
water from the SCWA. Some of the contents tn the nine benefits are not
entirely accurate.
#1. There ts no assurance of an increase tn property values. Indeed, tf
the availability of public water encourages more real estate or business
development, property values wau~d most likely decline.
-2-
~, Saving Money. This benefit is loaded with assumptions. The leading
one concerns bottled water. Significantly more than half of Americans
drink bottled water, despite their use of public water. Sales of
bottled water have more than tripled in the last ten years and they are
continuing to grow. Bottled water is regulated and required by law to
meet standards of purity. Hare and more Americans do not trust the
water that flows from their taps from public water utilities.
Furthermore, people buy and drink bottled water for many reasons, not
just their distrust of the water that flows from their taps. That
includes both affluent and people who are by no means affluent.
3. Many homes along this extension route maintain generators to supply
electricity to their welt water supply in the event of a power
outage. Furthermore, many homes either use whole house water filter
systems or no tess than ten other relatively simple commercial brands
of purifying their water from their wells. These brands and whole house
systems meet or exceed quality national standards of water purity.
The promotion of benefits from SCWA does not mention the cost to the
homeowner of tapping into the water supply that SCWA wants to
provide. It fails to make it clear that homeowners may have to spend
from $2,500. to $5,000. or more to change their main plumbing supply
lines leading from the SCWA line and inside of their own homes.
Nor does it dare to mention that common whole house supplies of
filtered water certified by both the UL {Underwriters Laboratories) and
the NSF can be installed for much less money and cost as little as $18.
per month to as much as $60.a month for fully filtered water that
removes particulates down to 5 or 10 microns.
Last but far from least, ail One has to do to confirm that development
follows the instatlation of public supply water lines is to do the
research on any of internet browsers. Reel Estate developers and Real
Estate brokers and those who benefit from them will be the first to
vehemently deny that truth.
I grew up on Long Island. I watched with considerable dismay as farms
less than a mile from my home turned into high density housing
communities.
-3-
I am fully aware of the fact that The Town Board faces a difficult set
of demands from those who want the S£WA water supply and those who are
desperately trying to maintain our quality of life east of the
causeway. Orient is probably the last community in Suffolk £ounty
to enjoy a peaceful way of life without the housing density of the
South Fork and Western Suffolk, to say nothing of Nassau £ounty.
People are moving from the South Fork to the North Fork to escape the
interminable traffic and growing population density.
What SCWA has sent out is not a survey. It is pure sales promotion.
One certainly has to compliment their aggressive style of getting more
business for the product they want to supply. But their survey of
prospective demand is simp~ is not honest. The results of this survey
ma~...very well giv~yo~/~ros~ly mis/l~hding information.
[.David and [~roltne Stlverstone
PS: Lest you and the Board think I am just a summer visitor, my family
has been visiting Orient since 1938; my Mother bought the house at
20615 Main Rood in 1956; and my daughter and her family will inherit
the propert~
Woodhull, Ruthanne
Page 1 of 1
From: Madanne Fahs [mfahs@hunter. cuny.edu]
Sent: Monday, April 05, 2010 12:21 PM
To: Russell, Scott
Cc: Berliner, Sandra; input@orientwater.info
Subject: [NEWSENDER] - Orient Water Main - Message is from an unknown sender
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holdin§ the Public Hearin§ on the proposed Water Main to Brqwns Hills, and for insistin§
that 5tWA request an amendment to the Town Water Map before they §o any further with their plans.
In doing this, you are askin§ 5£WA to follow the proper sequence of events.
Please know that I want every sin§le person in Orient to have access to clean water and plenty of it.
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fra§ile environments in
Orient, and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and little development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the £omprehensive Plan for
5outhold is in place, and until it has been verified that $¢WA has completed all environmental studies
and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Marianne C Fahs
Address: Box 464, Orient, New York, 11957
4/5/2010
Woodhull, Ruthanne
Page 1 of 1
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Jesse Gordon [jessegordon@costellogordon.com]
Monday, April 05, 2010 1:56 PM
Russell, Scott
Lanza, Heather; Bediner, Sandra; input@orientwater, info
Subject: [NEWSENDER] - Orient Water Main - Message is from an unknown sender
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and for
insisting that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to the Town
Water Map, completes an environmental study and confirms that there is the necessary level of public
interest in the pipeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to follow the proper and lawful sequence of
events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and plenty of it.
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile environments in Orient,
and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and little development.
My request is that you table this amendment to thc water map until the Comprehensive Plan for
Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all environmental studies
and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Jesse and Elizabeth Gordon
Address: 1750 Northview Drive
Orient, NY
Jesse Gordon
Costello & Gordon LLP
1790 Broadway
Suite 710
New York, NY 10019
Telephone: (212) 765-8600
Facsimile (212) 765-7887
This e-mail is sent by a law firm and contains information that may be
privileged and confidential. If you are not the intended recipient, please
delete the a-mail and any a~tachments and notify us immediately.
4/5/2010
Russell, Scott
Page 1 of 1
From: bebonham@aol.com
Sent: Sunday, April 04, 2010 4:23 PM
To: undisclosed-recipients
Subject: Orient and water
My name is Barbara Stires and I own property at 25825 Main Road, Orient. Unfortunately, I cannot be at the
April 6th public hearing.
I have serious concerns regarding the Suffolk County Water Authority proposal to extend their water service
as far as Brown's Hills.
I do believe an environmental review must be completed, as well as the comprehensive plan for Southold and
for our hamlet of Orient.
As our elected representatives, hopefully you will resist the pressure of the Suffolk County Water Authority
to "hurry up", especially since there are too many unanswered questions that affect all the existing taxpayers
in Orient and beyond here on the North Fork.
Sincerely,
Barbara B. Stires
P.S. I tried to send this to the trustees, but it wouldn't go through.
4/5/2010
Woodhull, Ruthanne
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Rowe Carrick [carrickrowe@mac.com]
Monday, April 05, 2010 3:06 PM
Russell, Scott
Lanza, Heather; Berliner, Sandra; input@orientwater.info
[NEWSENDER] - Orient Water Main - Message is from an unknown sender
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and for
insisting that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to the Town
Water Map, completes an environmental study and confirms that there is the necessary level of public
interest in the pipeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to follow the proper and lawful sequence
of events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and plenty of it.
~Iowever, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile environments in
Orient, and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and little development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan for
Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all environmental
studies and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Carrick Rowe
Address:
Carrick Rowe Interiors
17o East 79th Street, 4B
New York, New York 10075
212-288-8379
carrickrowe@mac.com
Berliner, Sandra
Page 1 of 2
From: BKLYNPHYS@aol.com
Sent: Monday, April 05, 2010 4:16 PM
To: Russell, Scott
Cc: Lanza, Heather; Berliner, Sandra; input@orientwater, info; bgdelano@pol,net; kdelano@verizon.net;
blackbeltbaker@verizon.net; jfried172@aoLcom; Ifeigelson@aol.com; keriock@me.com
Subject: [NEWSENDER] - Orient Water Main - Message is from an unknown sender
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and for insisting
that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to the Town Water Map,
completes an environmental study and confirms that there is the necessary level of public interest in
the pipeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to follow the proPer and lawful sequence of events.
'Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and plenty of it.
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile environments in Orient,
i our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and little development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan for
Southold is in place, and un~il it has been verified that SCWA has completed all environmental studies
and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Address: 15435 Route 25 East Marion, NY (also 654 E 19 Street Brooklyn, NY 11230)
Comments
~ril 5. 2010 09:14
<67e509624841f56690b4de45a168186aljpg>
My wife and I have 3 acres and a house on the Cause Way and access to Dam Pond whose north shore (Trumans
Beach) we walk on just about every day we are out hera (about 3 months per year). Dam Pond is a remarkable
ecosystem that most local residents (and probably SCWA) are not all that familiar with. For example, a rare form of
Sea Lavender (on the EPA's protected list) grows on its north shore which is also home to a colony of fiddler crabs
which number several thousand. The pond is home to innumerable inedible horse-mussels which filter the pond's
waters so other aquatic animals and plants can thrive there. It is a very delicate ecosystem and I worry about the
potential impact of the water main on its stability, padicularly if the local zoning is changed to allow Odent's
population to grow, Dam Pond is connected to Orient Harbor via a narrow channel at the western beginning of the
Cause Way. I estimate that, because of tides, about a billion gallons of water flow into and out of Dam Pond in the
coume of a year; all of it through that narrow channel. Presumably, the water main will tunnel under this narrow
salt water channel and I wonder if SCWA has thoroughly considered the impact this will have on Dam Pond's
water. With global warming and melting glaciers and polar ice caps it is projected that sea levels will rise about a
foot the next decade or so and I also wonder if SCWA has thoroughly considered what this implies for the
structural stability of the water main they have so aggressively pushed forward. Finally, as I understand it, all
Federal Stimulus Funds that are used for construction and development cannot result in projects that don't conform
to NEPA (National Environmental Policy Act, 1969). I think this means that SCWA needs to conduct some sort of
environmental impact study if it's going to use stimulus funds to help build the water main.
4/6/2010
Woodhull, Ruthanne
From: Judith Woodard [JWoodard@christopherstreet. com]
Sent: Monday, April 05, 2010 3:06 PM
To: Russell, Scott
Cc: Lanza, Heather; Berliner, Sandra; input@orientwater.info
Subject: [NEWSENDER] - Orient Water Main - Message is from an unknown sender
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and for
insisting that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to the Town
Water Map, completes an environmemal study and confirms that there is the necessary level of public
interest in the pipeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to follow the proper and lawful sequence of
events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and plenty of it.
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile enviromnents in Orient,
and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and little development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan for
Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all environmental studies
and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Judith Woodard
2005 Village Lane
PO Box 402
Orient, NY 11957
631-323-3714
4/5/2010
Woodhull, Ruthanne
Page 1 of 1
From:
Sent:
To'
Cc'
JGAOTl@aol.com
Monday, April 05, 2010 3:02 PM
Russell, Scott
Lanza, Heather; Bediner, Sandra; input@orientwater.info
Subject: Orient Water Main
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and for insisting that
SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to the Town Water Map, completes an
environmental study and confirms that there is the necessary level of public interest in the pipeline. In doing
this, you are asking SCWA to follow the proper and lawful sequence of events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and plenty of it.
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile environments in Orient, and
our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and little development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan for Southold is in
place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all environmental studies and obtained all
necessary permits.
Sincerely,
James Garretson
Address:
1620 Village Lane
Box 123
Orient,
NY 11957
4/5/2010
Woodhull, Ruthanne
Page 1 of 1
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Anne MacKay [amackayl@optonline.net]
Monday, April 05, 2010 2:24 PM
Russell, Scott
Lanza, Heather; Berliner, Sandra; input@orientwater, info
Subject: Orient Water Main
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and for
insisting that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to the Town
Water Map, completes an environmental study and confirms that there is the necessary level of public
interest in the pipeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to follow the proper and lawful sequence of
events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and plenty of it.
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that pmteets the fragile environments in Orient,
and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and little development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan for
Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all environmental studies
and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Anne MacKay, P.O.Box 97, Orient, NY 11957
Address:
4/5/2010
Woodhull, Ruthanne
Page 1 of 1
From:
Bent:
To:
Cc:
Lynn Witt [allwitt99@gmail.com]
Monday, April 05, 2010 2:42 PM
Russell, Scott
Lanza, Heather; Berliner, Sandra; input@odentwater.info
Subject: [NEWSENDER] - Orient'Water System - Message is from an unknown sender
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main te Browns Hills, and for insisting that
SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment te the Town Water Map, completes an
environmental study and confirms that thers is the necessary level of public interest in the pipeline. In doing this,
you are asking SCWA to follow the proper and lawful sequence of events.
As a part-time resident of Orient with a house in Brown's Hills, please know that I want every single person in
Orient to have access to clean water and plenty of it.
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile environments in Orient, and our
community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and little development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan for Southold is in
place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all environmental studies and obtained all
necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Lynn Witt
PO Box 543
Orient, NY 11957
4/5/2 010
Berliner, Sandra
Page 1 of 1
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Irene Bouchard [ibouchard@charter. net]
Monday, April 05, 2010 2:07 PM
Russell, Scott
Lanza, Heather; Berliner, Sandra; input@orientwater.info
Subject: [NEWSENDER] - Orient Water Main - Message is from an unknown sender
'Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and for
insisting that SCWA not pro'ceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to the
Town Water Map, completes an environmental study and confirms that thero is the necessary
level of public interest in the pipeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to follow the proper
and lawful sequence of events.
know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and plenty of
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile environments in
Orient, and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and little development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan for
Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all environmental
studies and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Armand De Luca
1045 Uhl Lane
Orient1 NY 11957
pS~am sending this from out of town and will be
unable to make the Town Hall meeting. I regret that.
Address:
4/5/2010
Woodhull, Ruthanne
Page 1 of 1
.s'5'., a o
From: Betty Rowe [errowe@optonline.net]
Sent: Monday, April 05, 2010 3:08 PM
To: Russell, Scott
Cc: Lanza, Heather
Subject: Orient Water Main
bear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills,
and for insisting that 5CWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary
amendment to the Town Water Map, completes an environmental study and confirms
that there is the necessam/level of public interest in the pipeline. ;In doing this, you
are asking SCWA to follow the proper and lawful sequence of events.
Please know that [ want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water
and plenty of it.
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile
environments in Orient, and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland
and little development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the
Comprehensive Plan for 5outhold is Jn place, and until it has been verified that 5CWA
has completed all environmental studies and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Elizabeth R. Rowe
1850 Youngs Road, Orient
FREE Animations for your email - by lncredilqail!
4/5/2010
Woodhull, Ruthanne
From: Susan Gardner [sbgardner@att.net]
Sent: Monday, April 05, 2010 3:22 PM
To: Russell, Scott
Cc: Lanza, Heather; Bediner, Sandra; input@orientwater.info
Subject: [NEWSENDER] - Orient Water Main - Message is from an unknown sender
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and for insisting that
SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to the Town Water Map, completes an
environmental study and confirms that there is the necessary level of public interest in the pipeline. In doing this,
you are asking SCWA to follow the proper and lawful sequence of events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and plenty of it.
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile environments in Orient, and our
community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and little development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan for Southold is in
place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all environmental studies and obtained all
necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Susan Gardner
Susan B. Gardner
Architect
1465 Youngs Road
Orient, NY 11957
631 323-2723
SB Gardner(~/),att.net
4/5/2010 '
OFFICE OF THE STATE COMPTROLLER
Thomas P. DiNapoli, State Comptroller
Economic Benefits of Open Space Preservation
March 2010
One tenet of the "smart growth" movement is that communities should strive to preserve
open space, farmland, natural beauty and critical environmental areas? Conflicts often
occur between open space preservation and other goals. In fiscally challenging times, it is
particularly important to understand and consider fully the economic benefits of open
space.
While the environmental and recreational benefits of open space preservation are readily
apparent, the many economic benefits are often less evident. For example, benefits
provided by open space, such as water preservation and storm water control, are often
significant. In many instances it is less expensive for a community to maintain open space
that naturally maintains water quality, reduces runoff, or controls flooding than to use tax
dollars for costly engineered infrastructure projects such as water filtration plants and
storm sewers. When these benefits, also known as ecosystem services, are overlooked,
open space protection may be considered an expense rather than an investment that can
mitigate property tax increases, leading to land use decisions that do not accurately weigh
costs and benefits.
A review of studies of the costs and benefits of open space protection conducted by the
Office of the State Comptroller finds that:
· Open space supports industries that generate billions of dollars in economic activity
annually;
· Open space protection can be financially beneficial to local governments by
reducing costs for public infrastructure and programs, lessening the need for
property tax increases;
· Open space preservation can support regional economic growth; and
· Well-planned open space protection measures need not conflict with meeting other
vital needs, such as economic development, municipal fiscal health and affordable
housing.
~ Principles promulgated by the Smart Growth Network (representing a coalition of government and advocacy groups)
are available online at www smartqrowth orq/about/default asp.
Decision-making that explicitly considers and values the positive economic effects of open
space, as well as environmental and quality-of-life implications, will best serve a
community's long-term interests. Accordingly, this report reviews a number of policy
issues associated with open space planning and protection. In addition, the report
recommends that State and local governments:
· Evaluate protections for lands providing ecosystem services;
· Improve State planning for open space;
· Allow municipalities to establish community preservation funds;
· Support local open space planning; and
· Encourage private land conservation.
Definitions and Challenges
In the most general terms, open space protection programs are actions taken by
governments or private entities to preserve open space, either by taking ownership or
otherwise controlling the use of land. Open space uses include:
· Public parks with developed facilities such as playgrounds, swimming pools and golf
courses;
· Rustic or wilderness parks, such as the Adirondack or Catskill parks, that have little
in the way of developed facilities;
· Privately held lands used for farming, forestry, or watershed protection that may
have significant modification to landscapes and vegetation and may or may not
allow public access; and
· Portions of residential, commercial or industrial lots not containing buildings.
All of these land uses serve specific and sometimes multiple open space functions.
Playgrounds, golf courses and wilderness parks provide outdoor recreation. Wilderness
parks, farms, working forests, watershed lands and even undeveloped portions of private
lots can provide habitat for plants and wildlife, offer scenic views and preserve community
character.
Different forms of open space can serve valuable habitat, recreational and natural water
management functions, including purifying surface waters, replenishing aquifers and
impeding flooding. These water management functions are often referred to as
"ecosystem services" or "natural services."
Sprawl
New York has a unique urban and natural heritage, as well as a rich diversity of
communities. These communities include open spaces that need to be conserved or
developed in a way that is economically and environmentally sustainable. The alternative
is the continuing dispersion of population and development, or "sprawl," with all its
associated costs.
Downstate, high population density and continued growth have created intense pressure
on remaining open spaces, generating critical environmental and recreational concerns.
Development pressure on open space also exists upstate, even though in this region
population growth has remained relatively fiat. Many upstate cities, villages and older
Pa9e 2
inner-ring suburbs are losing population, while communities further out are experiencing
rapid growth and development.2 Much of this new development is Iow density, and occurs
at the fringe of settled areas, forests and farmlands. New infrastructure (water, sewer and
roads) may be required even as existing infrastructure elsewhere is underutilized.
A Brookings Institution study describes a pattern of accelerating sprawl in upstate New
York even as population growth slows, which is undermining the region's quality of life and
economic health? The study documented that in the years between 1982 and 1997
upstate land was developed at twelve times the rate of population growth, and new
housing units were developed about twice as fast as new households were created. In
growing areas, sprawl causes transportation problems, environmental degradation and the
loss of farmland, natural areas and other open space. Sprawl also increases local taxes
for expanded services, particularly for schools.
Ecosystem Services
Living organisms and the environment in which they live are often referred to as
ecosystems. Ecosystems provide benefits such as food, water, air and natural resources.
For example, a privately owned wetland may filter pollution from water used for drinking
water downstream, recharge an aquifer that supplies drinking water or prevent
downstream flooding. Naturally functioning ecosystems provide services that economists
and planners identify as ecosystem services.4 Ecosystem services, such as those
provided by a wetland, can reduce municipal costs or provide clean water used in
commercial or industrial activities. The value of these services, however, often goes
unrecognized, with the landowner not compensated for providing this benefit by
maintaining rather than developing the wetland.
Economic Benefits
Open space can provide a variety of public benefits, including drainage and water
management, recreational opportunities and a supply of natural resources necessary for
certain industries.
Water Management
Drainage and water management benefits provided by open space include control of storm
water runoff, preservation of surface water quality and stream flows, and infiltration of
surface water to replenish aquifers. When lands are converted from open space to other
uses, the natural benefits provided by open space often must be replaced through the
construction of water treatment facilities to clean up contaminated surface or groundwater
supplies, levies to control flooding or other infrastructure to control storm water. Local
taxes often pay for the construction of facilities to replace these lost drainage benefits.
2 For a complete description of these trends in various regions of the State, see Population Trends in New York State's
Cities, Office of the State Comptroller (2004) at www.osc.state ny us/Iocalqov/pubs/research/pop trends pdf.
3 Pendatl, Rolf. "Sprawl Without Growth: The Upstate Paradox." The Brookings Institution Survey Sedes. 2003. The
Brookings Institution Center on Urban and Metropolitan Policy.
www.brookinqs edul~lmedialFileslrc/reportsl2OO311Odemoqraphics pendall/200310 Pendait pdf.
4 Kline, Jeffrey D., Marisa J. Mazzotta and Trista M. Patterson. "Toward a Rational Exuberance for Ecosystem Services
Markets." Journal of Forestry 107.4 (June 2009): 204-212.
Page 3
According to the U.S. Government Accountability Office, on those lands with natural
ground cover only 10 percent of precipitation becomes runoff, while 90 percent infiltrates
into the ground. However, when 75 percent of the site is covered with impervious surfaces,
55 percent of the precipitation becomes runoff. On paved parking lots, 98 percent of
precipitation becomes runoff.
Paving not only significantly increases the amount of storm water than runs off from a
parcel of land, but it also increases the speed of runoff. In comparison to open space,
streets and parking lots create conditions that prevent groundwater from being recharged.
This, in turn, may lead to water shortages.
Increases in the percentage of land covered with impervious surfaces result in greater
amounts of storm water that must be managed, which can translate into higher municipal
costs. Moreover, storm water managed by engineered controls (e.g., retention basins) is
more likely to pollute subsurface water than water filtered through forested open space.5
The engineering department at Purdue University estimates that approximately eight times
more storm water runs off from impervious surfaces, such as streets, sidewalks and roofs,
than from forested land.6 When the percentage of impervious surfaces in a watershed
grows there is a corresponding increase in undesirable consequences:
· Increased frequency and severity of flooding;
· Increased erosion;
· Reduced groundwater recharge; and
· Reduced natural filtration of water--resulting in increased pollution and reduced
stream health.7
The costs of addressing the negative effects of increased storm water must also be
considered when weighing the benefits of preserving open space. Again, local taxes often
pay to mitigate these deleterious effects.
On the other hand, natural drainage and water management provided by open space can
significantly reduce municipal costs for water treatment. A 2002 survey of 27 water
suppliers found that for every 10 percent increase in forest cover in a municipal water
system's watershed, costs of water treatment decreased by 20 percent? A series of
studies have found the preservation of open space to be a far more economical way to
address storm water requirements. Examples include:
· The New York City Department of Environmental Protection projects that the costs
of preserving and restoring natural drainage features in 16 Staten Island
5 Nowak, David, Jun Wang and Ted Endreny. "Environmental and Economic Benefits of Protecting Forests Within Urban
Areas: Air and Water Quality/' The Economic Benefits of Land Conservation. Ed. Constance T.F. de Brun. The Trust
for Public Land, 2007. 28-47.
6 Actual Observations of runoff in Indiana show that actual runoff from impervious surfaces was 63 times greater than
runoff from forested land. Seehttps://engineering.purdueedu/SafeWater/watershed/landusehtml.
7 dela Cretaz, Avril and Paul K. Baden. Land Use Effects on Streamfiowand WaterQualityin the North Eastern United
States. Boca Raton: CRC Press, 2007. Stream health is measured by a benthic macro invertebrate index related
directly to the percentage of impervious surfaces in the watershed. The presence of control measures like stream buffers
did not change this relationship (p. 238).
8 Ernst, Cap/n, Richard Gullick and Kirk Nixon. "Protecting the Source: Conserving Forests to Protect Water." Opflow
30.5 (May 2004). www.tpl.orq/content documents/landandwater opflow articte pdf.
Page 4
watersheds will save tens of millions of dollars in comparison to the costs of
constructing and maintaining storm water control infrastructure.9
An Army Corps of Engineers study on acquisition of 8,500 acres of wetlands
adjacent to the Charles River in Massachusetts estimated costs for engineered
flood control measures at $100 million compared to a $10 million cost to acquire the
wetlands.
A recent analysis by the Texas Comptroller found that the environmental benefits
from Texas urban parks freed up enough capital for private investment to contribute
3,906 jobs, $233.6 million in gross state product and $153.7 million in personal
income annually.1°
Industries Reliant on Open Space
A strong link exists between open space preservation and the health of certain industries.
Some sectors of the economy, such as agriculture, forestry and industries that rely on
forest products, cannot function without access to open space. Other industries, such as
tourism and outdoor recreation, are closely related to open space.
Contribution of Industries Reliant on Open Space to New York State Economy
$43.0
40
35
$31.2
15
10
5
$4.5 $4.6
$9.0
$11.3
Direct Farm Farrn Support and Direct Forestry Goods Tourism Outdoor
Food Processing Manufactured Recreation
From Forest
Products
Industries
Natural resources like timber, minerals or agricultural land are critical inputs to economic
activity. For example, a study by American Farmland Trust reports that agricultural activity
in New York's Hudson Valley generated $434.9 million in 2000 oconomic activity
predicated on access to productive agricultural land. When open lands are converted to
s New York City. Environmental Protection. "The Staten Island Bluebelt." Accessed January 27, 2010.
w Cw.nycqov/html/dep/html/dep proiects/bluebelt.s tm.
~-~-xas. Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts, Susan Combs. Texas State Parks: Natural Economic Assets.
September 2008. www.window.state.tx.us/specialrpt/parks/.
Page 5
other uses, production of natural resources may be impeded or even lost. This, in turn,
results in increased costs of transportation in order to bring needed materials in from other
areas where they are still available. ~
To be profitable, agriculture requires access to large parcels of productive soils. As
farmland is lost to other uses due to rising property taxes and fragmentation of farmland,
the viability of farming is threatened. Without public intervention in the form of agricultural
zoning, agricultural property tax abatement and/or purchase of development rights, the
strong demand for the conversion of farmlands can be overwhelming.~2
Without a critical mass of farms in an area, the support businesses that service farms
cannot survive, further threatening the viability of farms? Agriculture is among New
York's largest and most vital industries, encompassing 25 percent of the State's landscape
and directly generating more than $4.5 billion for the State's economy each year. In 2007,
the income generated directly by farms, combined with income generated by agricultural
support industries and by industries that process agricultural products, totaled
$31.2 billion."
Programs to protect farmland can achieve additional economic benefits. A survey of
participants in Vermont's program to purchase development rights on farmland found that
many farmers reinvested revenues from sale of easements back into their farms. These
investments, in turn, improved the profitability of the farms?
Forestry also requires significant parcels of open space to be viable. While trees can
certainly grow in cities and residential neighborhoods, these settings make it difficult for
loggers to operate efficiently. New York's fo, restry industry employs 60,000 people and
contributes $4.6 billion annually to the State s economy? When the value of products
manufactured from forest products and the income generated by forest-related recreation
and tourism are considered, New York's forests generate approximately $9.0 billion in
economic activity on an annual basis?7
1~ Miller, Stephen. "The Economic Benefits of Qpen Space." The Economic Benefits of Land Conservation. Ed. Leonard
W. Hamilton. New Jersey: The Great Swamp Watershed Association, 1997.
~2 Esseks, Dick, et al. "Sustaining Agriculture in Urbanizing Counties: Insighls from 15 Coordinated Case Studies."
January 2009. University of Nebraska, Lincoln.
http:/Iofp.sccwa.qov/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/sustaininq-aqriculture-in-urbanizinR counties pdf.
An economic survey of farms and farm-related businesses in New York s Hudson Valley showed that the number of
farm-related businesses declined as acreage in farmland declined. Agricultural and Community Development Services,
LLC. At a Crossroads: Agricultural Economic Development in the Hudson Valley. Northeast Field Office, Saratoga
Springs, New York: American Farmland Trust. 2004.
www.farmlandinfo.orq/documents/29996/New York Hudson Valley Summary Reportpdf.
~4 Bills, Nelson and Gregory Poe. "Agriculture and the Environment: Trends in New York Land Use and Highlights of the
2008 Farm Bill." New York Economic Handbook 2009. Ed. Department of Applied Economics and Management,
College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. Ithaca: Comell University, December 2008.
~://aemcomelledu/outreach/extensionpdf/2OOSICorneli AEM eb0825.pdf.
Furgeson, Kirseten and Jeremiah Cosgrove. From the Field: What Farmers Have lo Say About Vermont's Farm/and
Conservation Program. Northeast Field Office, Saratoga Springs, New York: American Farmland Trust. 2000.
www farmlandinfoorq/documents1293891From The Field pdf.
~6 New York. Depadment of Environmental Conservation. "Forests." Accessed January 27, 2010.
www.dec.ny.gov/lands/309.htmL
~7 North East State Foresters Association. The Economic Importance of New York's Forests. March 2001.
www nefainfo orq/publications/nefany pdf.
Page 6
Similarly, New York's open spaces attract significant numbers of visitors, many of whom
come from out-of-state. A 1987 study conducted by the President's Commission on
Americans Outdoors cited natural beauty as the most important factor in attracting tourist
visits? New York's tourism industry generates approximately $43 billion annually.~9
While not all of this money is generated through tourism related to open space, there is
evidence that open space is a significant attraction. For example, according to the
Adirondack Regional Tourism Council, between seven and ten million tourists visit the
Adirondack Park annually.2°
Another way in which open space contributes to the State's economy is by providing
opportunities for outdoor recreational activities. According to information generated by the
Outdoor Industry Foundation (OIF), 18.4 million people participated in some form of
nonmotorized outdoor recreation in New York State in 2005.21 As reported by OIF, sales
of equipment for these pastimes generated $11.3 billion annually in retail sales and
services in New York State?
A recent study by Parks and Trails New York estimates $1.9 billion in economic activity is
generated by the 55.7 million annual visitors to the New York State Park System.23 This
demonstrates the economic value of New York's park system, in addition to its recreational
and ecological value.
Open Space Preservation and Municipal Revenues
A common misperception is that open space protection translates into a loss of revenues
for municipalities. While replacement of farming or forestry land with residential,
commercial or industrial uses can produce an increase of gross revenues, that increase
can be more than offset by an increase in the demand for services. In addition, conversion
of land from less intensive uses to more intensive uses can come at the expense of
adjacent urbanized areas, as shown by a Brookings Institution study of upstate New
York.24
Studies have shown that open space demands fewer municipal services than lands in
other use. Consequently, open space tends to generate greater municipal tax revenue
than the value of services required by these lands. In comparison, lands in residential use
typically consume services of greater value than the property tax revenues generated by
~8 Fausold, Charles J. and Robert J. Lilieholm. "The Economic Value of Open Space: A Review and Synthesis."
Environmental Management 23.3 (April 1999): 307-320.
~9 New York. Empire State Development. "Empire State Development News." Accessed January 27, 2010.
wvcw.nylovesbiz.com/press/press_display.asp?id=868.
2o New York. Adirondack Regional Tourism Coundl. "Fast Facts." Accessed January 27, 2010.
htr p://visitadirondacks.corn/newsroom/fast-facts html.
2~ Outdoor Industry Foundation. "The Active Outdoor Recreation Economy: A $730 Billion Contribution to the US
Economy." Fall 2006. v/ww outdoorindustry.orq/pdf/NewYorkRecEconomy.pdf
~3 Heintz, James, Robert Pollin and Heidi Garret-Peltier. The New York State Park System: An Economic Asset to the
~m~pire State. M~rch 2009. Published by Parks and Trails New.Y. ork. www ptny orq/pdfs/advocacy/peri full repor~ pdf.
Pendall, Rolf. Sprawl Without Growth: The Upstate Paradox. The Brookings Institution Survey Series. 2003. The
Brookings Institution Center on Urban and Metropolitan Policy.
wv~w.b~ookinqsedu/~/media/Files/rc/reports/2OO3/lOdemoqraphics pendall/200310 Pendall.pdf.
Page 7
these lands.25 Protected open space that remains on municipal tax rolls can produce a net
profit for the municipality when the cost of services consumed by the property is compared
with revenues generated.
Although the net revenue gain from residential development may be negative, residential
development does increase land valuation for property tax purposes. This increased
valuation may lead municipal officials to approve development projects that are either
inconsistent with municipal planning or improperly sited.26 These decisions, when coupled
with the higher demand for services generated by residential development, can actually
increase tax rates and overall tax bills for individual properties. A comparison of towns in
New Jersey conducted by the Association of New Jersey Environmental Commissions
found that per capita tax increases between 1970 and 1990 were significantly lower in
towns with sizable percentages of protected lands and substantial farmlands?? In other
words, open space preservation can actually help to keep taxes lower.
Conversely, loss of open space can increase per capita tax rates in a community. It can
also negatively impact the tax base of adjacent communities. The Brookings Institution
studied the causes and effects of loss of open space in upstate New York? The study
found that from 1982 to 1997, 425,000 acres of upstate New York were urbanized, an
increase of 30 percent. During this time period, population growth in the region was
negligible. One of the effects of the new urbanization was the reduction in population and
tax base of previously established urban centers. During the decade from 1990 through
2000, the assessed value of property in upstate cities declined by 7.0 percent?9
Some forms of open space protection, however, remove the property from the tax rolls.
Even in circumstances where the municipality purchases either an easement of
development rights or the full ownership rights on the land (known as fee title), several
studies report net fiscal benefits to municipalities over relatively long pay-back periods of
15 years or longer.3° This effect is produced through a combination of maintaining
ecosystem services and limiting the growth in demand for services due to the preservation
of open space.
In the case of New York State-owned lands, the State pays property taxes to towns,
villages, school districts and special taxing districts for some categories of State-owned
open space. The broadest categories of land on which property taxes are paid are lands
held as State Reforestation Lands, the New York State Forest Preserve and some
2s Auger, Philip A. "Does Open Space Pay?" Natural Resource Network. 1996. University of New Hampshire
Cooperative Extension. http://extensionunh.edu/resources/representation/ResourceO00400 Rep422.pdf; American
Farmland Trust. Does Farmland Protection Pay? The Cost of Community Sen/ices in Three Massachusetts Towns.
Massachusetts Department of Food and Agriculture. June 1992.
~6 American Farmland Trust. Does Farmland Protection Pay? The Cost of Community Sen/ices in Three Massachusetts
Towns. Massachusetts Department of Food and Agriculture. June 1992.
27 Association of New Jersey Environmental Commissions. "Open Space is a Good Investment: The Financial Argument
for Open Space Preservation." Resource Paper. www.aniec.orq/pdfs/OpenSpaceGoodlnvestment2004 pdf.
28 Pendall, Rolf. "Sprawl Without Growth: The Upstate Paradox," The Brookings Institution Survey Series. 2003. The
Brookings ~nstitution Center on Urban and Metropolitan Policy.
wwwbrookinqsedu/-/media/Files/rc/reports/2OO3/lOdemoqraphics pendall/200310 Pendall.pdf.
2g Ibid.
30 Association of New Jersey Environmental Commissions. "Open Space is a Good Investment: The Financial Argument
for Open Space Preservation." Resource Paper. wwwanjecorq/pdfs/OpenSpaceGoodinvestment2OO4.pdf.
Page 8
properties owned by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic
Preservation.
Property taxes are also paid on other State-owned lands based on specific sections of the
New York State Real Property Tax Law. According to projections by the New York State
Office of Real Property Services, the State paid approximately $173.4 million in property
taxes to local governments in 2007. State reforestation lands and forest preserve lands
are primarily held in undeveloped, wilderness uses. In these circumstances, the cost of
municipal services for such lands should be minimal, and the net positive revenue impact
is, therefore, significant.
Open Space Preservation and Other Policy Goals
There is a tendency to view open space as economically unproductive, contributing
minimally to local economies and tax revenues, or even as fiscally damaging to municipal
governments. This view fails to consider the many positive economic effects documented
from open space. While conflicts may occur between open space preservation and other
municipal goals, local decision-making that explicitly examines economic, environmental
and quality-of-life considerations will best serve a community's long-term interests.
In regions of the State with high-value housing markets, such as Long Island, open space
protection is sometimes viewed as further increasing already high housing prices by
contributing to the scarcity of land for residential development. Since less land is available
for development, open space preservation can contribute to increased land values. In
addition, due to the aesthetic, recreational and other potential values of open space,
property values of adjacent lands often increase.31 A number of studies support the link
between land scarcity and higher housing values? However, this link between land
scarcity and higher property values must be assessed while also considering the positive
benefits of open space preservation--which can mitigate increases in tax rates by
providing ecosystem services and reducing the demand for municipal services.
It is also difficult to single out open space protection as the most significant of all the
factors affecting housing affordability, since factors other than open space protection, such
as restrictive zoning or long delays in processing building permits, are also highly
correlated with increasing housing prices? Rising property tax rates, for example, are
widely identified with increased costs of housing.
Since open space preservation may actually assist in holding down property taxes,
well-designed open space protection programs that target specific lands, which provide
3~ Fausold, Charles J. and Robert J. Lilieholm. "The Economic Value of Open Space: A Review and Synthesis."
Environmental Management 23.3 (April 1999): 307-320.
32 Kahn, James A. "What Drives Housing Prices." Federal Reserve Bank of New York Staff Reports, no. 345.
September 2008. www.newyorkfed.orq/research/staff reports/sr345 pdf; Case, Karl E. and Christopher J. Mayer.
"Housing Price Dynamics within a Metropolitan Area." Regional Science and Urban Economics 26 (1996): 387-407.
www wel~esley.edu/Economics/case/PE)Fs/dynamics pdf; Scanlon, Rosemary. "Raise the Roof, Lower the Costs:
Construction Costs and Housing Affordability in New York City." Rethinking Development Report, No. 4 June 2008~
Manhattan Institute. www.manhattaminstituteorq/html/rdr 04.htm.
33 Case, Karl E. and Christopher J. Mayer. "Housing Price Dynamics within a Metropolitan Area." Regional Science and
Urban Economics 26 (1996): 387-407. www wellesley edu/Economics/case/PDFs/dynamics pdf.
Page 9
high value ecosystem services or preserve farmland, timberland or other lands that
support economic production, need not conflict with municipal housing goals.
For example, the four largest categories of lands (by acreage) targeted by the Long Island
Town of Southampton's Community Preservation Project Plan are Central Pine Barrens
Plan--Core Preservation Area (12,461.22 acres), Open Space/Greenbelt Areas
(6,446.35), Agricultural Lands (4,252.69), and Wetlands (2,229.22).TM Together these
areas constitute 84 percent of Southampton's overall target of protecting $0,061.53 acres.
In the Core Preservation area, development is highly regulated pursuant to State Law, a
factor that would complicate use of these lands for purposes other than open space.3s The
list of Open Space and Greenbelt Projects included in the Southampton Plan shows that
the majority of these projects comprise headland streams, streams and rivers and their
banks, and marshes and swamps.
All of these land types either pose development challenges or may not be ideally suited for
housing. For example, wetlands or floodplains pose regulatory and engineering
challenges and have drainage features, like flood tendencies, which make them less
desirable as development sites. To convert agricultural land to residential use,
infrastructure investments, as well as access to transit and other services, may be
required. All of these factors, as well as zoning ordinances and administration of
ordinances pertaining to development, affect housing prices.
Tools for Open Space Protection: State, Local and Private
Open space protection occurs at the federal, state and local levels and involves a variety
of actors and programs.
State Land Acquisition
Currently, New York State ranks first among all states in the country in numbers of state
parks, recreation areas and natural areas, and second, after Alaska, in state park
acreage?6
New York State government generally protects land through:
· The purchase of lands in full fee title, where the State takes ownership of all of the
rights in the land in question; or
· The purchase of easements, where the State purchases some of the use rights in
the land.
Lands purchased by the State in full fee title for open space purposes may be managed as
State forest preserve, State reforestation areas, wildlife management areas or State
34 Town of Southampton Community Preservation Project Plan. Accessed February 4, 2010.
www.southamptontownny.qovlFTPISEQRAICPFlintroduction.pdf.
~5 Article 57, Title 1, of the New York State Environmental Conservation Law.
360'Leary Morgan, Kathleen and Scott Morgan, ed. State Rankings 2008: A Statistical View of America. CQ Press,
Washington, DC: CQ Press, 2008: 256; Hovey, Kendra A. and Harold A. Hovey. CQ's State Fact Finder 2007: Rankings
Across America. Washington, DC: CQ Press, March 2007: 86.
Page 10
parks.37 The State pays property taxes on lands designated as forest preserve or State
reforestation areas, and on some State Parks.
When the State purchases an easement for open space protection purposes, the State
typically purchases only those use rights that would interfere with the open space
protection purposes of the easement. Easements, where the underlying fee title to the
land is retained by a private landowner, are purchased through a variety of programs
including farmland protection, conservation easements and 'public fishing rights. Although
State easement programs typically allow ongoing economic use of the land by private
landowners, such use may be limited under the terms of the easement.
For example, working forest conservation easements allow the holder of the underlying fee
title to practice forestry, but typically require sustainable practices. Conservation
easements may or may not include rights of public access. Under the terms of these
easements, public access is typically restricted to certain uses that do not interfere with the
titleholder's use of the lands. Private landowners generally continue to be the responsible
party for property tax obligations on the lands, although land valuation may be reduced to
reflect the diminished development potential due to the terms of the easement.
In the early 19th century, New York State began to create modern urban parks in its
population centers. These lands were often already in some form of public use that was
converted to publicly accessible open space. For example, Manhattan's Bryant and
Washington parks were potter's field cemeteries until the 1820s when they were converted
to parks? Some of the earliest lands acquired by New York State for open space
purposes were timber lands in the Catskill Mountains on which all economically
harvestable timber had been cut and on which landowners had stopped paying taxes?
Significant Government-Managed Open Space Holdings in New York
Category
Adirondack Forest Preser,'e
Reforestation Areas
Consen~ation Easeme nfs
State Parks
Catskill Ferest PreserCe
Wild Life Management and Multiple Use Areas
Federal Wildlife Refuges Historic Sites and Recreational Areas
County Open Space
He ¢,' York City Watershed
City and ',Tillage Open Space
Town Open Space
Farmland Protection Easements
Hationa~ Forest
Total
Acreage
2 700 000 acres
776 000 acres
600 000 acres
330 000 acres
281 0O0 acres
179 000 acres
140 000 acres
100 000 acres
91 000 acres
51 000 acres
45 500 acres
29 000 acres
16 000 acres
5,338.500 acres
Source: 2009 Draft New York State Open Space Plan: www dec ny qowlands/317html
37 The State also pumhases lands for purposes other than open space, such as transportation, correclional and mental
health facilities.
3s New York City. Department of Parks and Recreation. "Bryant Park." Accessed February 8, 2010.
www.nycqovparks.orq/parks/bn/antpark/daityplant/19637.
39 VanValkenburgh, Norman J. The Forest Presen/e of New York State in the Adirondack and Catskill Mountains: A Short
History. Fleischmanns, New York: Purple Mountain Press, June 1996.
Page
Since that time, most lands have been acquired for open space purposes through
purchase. To pay for acquisition of land for parks, forest preserve and other open space
purposes, the New York State Legislature has placed eleven resolutions proposing bond
acts before the State's voters. Voters approved 10 of the 11 bond acts proposed for a
variety of environmental purposes. These bond acts have authorized State debt in the
amount of $1.2 billion for land acquisition, park improvements and heritage area projects.
In addition, Chapter 610 of the Laws of 1993 established the New York State
Environmental Protection Fund (EPF). The EPF provides funding for a variety of
environmental conservation programs through three accounts: solid waste; parks,
recreation and historic preservation; and open space. Since the inception of the EPF,
more than $1.1 billion has been appropriated to the open space account and $730 million
has been appropriated to the parks, recreation and historic preservation account. Both
accounts fund programs that support open space conservation.
Historically, New York State has been in the forefront of open space conservation efforts.
In 1833, New York created the first state park in the nation at Niagara Falls. New York
also led the movement to preserve wilderness by creating the New York State Forest
Preserve in the Adirondack and Catskill parks in 1885.4o
The Adirondack and Catskill parks continue to be models for open space conservation.
The Parks include both private and public lands, with approximately 2.6 million acres, or
43 percent, of the Adirondack Park and 287,500 acres, or 41 percent, of the Catskill Park
in public ownership. Approximately 130,000 people reside permanently in the Adirondack
Park and 50,000 reside in the Catskill Park. In 1894, State constitutional protections were
extended to State owned land in the Parks. Article 14, Section 1 of the New York State
Constitution prohibits the taking or destruction of timber on the Forest Preserve, or the sale
or lease of these lands. The Adirondack Park is distinct in that it is one of the few regions
in New York where an overlay of State land use regulations govern certain categories of
development projects.
There are two other notable examples of State-established land use management plans
with which local land use decision making is coordinated: the Long Island Pine Barrens
and the Albany Pine Bush. Both of these regions are representative of rare pitch pine
ecosystems and are in areas that were attractive for conversion to residential and
commercial land uses. In both cases, State laws were passed to protect habitat and other
ecosystem services provided by open space.
Chapter 792 of the Laws of 1988 established the Albany Pine Bush Preserve Commission
to protect and manage a pocket of pitch pine-scrub oak habitat in the City of Albany and
the towns of Guilderland and Colonie in Albany County. The Commission was charged
with development and implementation of a management plan to protect and manage the
2,725 acres of publicly owned lands for habitat protection and recreation. The
40 Chapter 283 of the Laws of 1885 defined the New York State Forest Preserve as State owned lands in the counties of
Clinton, Essex, Franklin, Fulton, Greene, Hamilton, Herkimer, Lewis, Saratoga, Saint Lawrence, Sullivan, Ulster, Warren,
Washington. State lands in Delaware and Oneida counties were later added to the Forest Preserve The boundaries of
the Adirondack Park were established by Chapter 707 of the Laws of 1892. The boundaries of the Catskill Park were
established by Chapter 233 of the Laws of 1904.
Page 12
Commission reviews and advises on development projects in a 12,500 acre study region
surrounding the Preserve. The Commission has also identified property in the study
region that would be suitable to add to the preserve through future acquisition. The Albany
Pine Bush Preserve is one of only two known New York State habitats of the endangered
Karner Blue Butterfly.
The Long Island Pine Barrens Protection Act (Act), Chapter 262 of the Laws of 1993,
identifies 102,500 acres as the Central Pine Barrens, located in Suffolk County. Designed
to preserve aquifer recharge and habitat functions in a "core preservation area," as well as
to promote compact growth in suitable "compatible growth areas," the Act was an early
example of legislation that advanced smart growth. The Act also helped to pioneer
systems to transfer development rights. In the Central Pine Barrens, development rights--
termed Pine Barrens Credits-can be transferred from privately owned land in the 55,000
acre core area to parcels in the compatible growth area to increase development intensity.
Approximately 38,000 acres in the core area are in public ownership. Implementation of
the Act is accomplished by the Central Pine Barrens Joint Planning and Policy
Commission in conformance with the Central Pine Barrens Comprehensive Land Use
Plan.
Local Government
Local governments play a vital role in open space protection and have a variety of tools at
their disposal, including land use planning and regulation, and acquisition of open space or
development rights. In New York, virtually all land use regulation takes place at the
municipal level (i.e., in a city, village or town government). Land use planning is also
primarily a municipal function, although State law provides for certain planning functions at
the county and regional levels.
Land use regulation and planning allow local governments to manage growth and
development and to direct development to those locations already served by public
infrastructure (water, sewer and roads). The most common method of municipal land use
control is to adopt zoning laws, which regulate the use of land by area or district, including
the type of development that can occur (e.g., residential, commercial), as well as the
density of such development (multifamily vs. single family, acres per building lot, etc.) and
other details such as building height, parking and access. Zoning regulations may also
designate areas as agricultural or forestry lands. Municipalities can address open space
protection through site plan approval and subdivision regulations. These tools can identify
appropriate locations for structures, roads and other infrastructure to preserve important
natural features of a development site. Open space preservation is also achieved through
strategies such as "cluster development"--where construction is concentrated in a portion
of a subdivision while the rest of the land is maintained as open space.
In addition, municipalities can adopt ordinances expressly designed to protect certain
forms of open space, such as wetlands, or certain features of the landscape, such as
scenic vistas. These ordinances typically operate by requiring permits for actions that
could harm areas deemed sensitive.
Page
Land use regulations generally implement plans, including those for the protection and
enhancement of open space, by managing growth and development in ways that
accomplish local goals. Cities, towns and villages are authorized to prepare
comprehensive plans, on which zoning and other land use controls will be based. Legal
authority exists for either a separate open space plan or inclusion of open space elements
within a comprehensive plan. Traditionally, comprehensive plans completed by
municipalities include an open space element just as they include elements on
transportation, utilities, community facilities, housing and other needs. Communities
pursuing local open space planning and conservation should fully integrate those activities
with the development and adoption of local comprehensive plans.
As of 2008, 69 percent of towns and 53 percent of counties in New York State had
adopted comprehensive plans and 71 percent of towns had adopted zoning ordinances.4z
The Department of State provides a comprehensive Open Space Planning Guide as well
as training and materials on land use planning, regulation and open space protection?
For example, the Department's Division of Local Government Services provides training
programs for municipal officials on planning for open space protection.43 In addition, a
variety of other State programs assist municipalities in specific regions in conservation
planning.44
Local governments also can preserve lands through purchase or easements. The General
Municipal Law establishes open land preservation as a public purpose and authorizes local
governments to expend public funds to acquire interests or rights in real property to
preserve open space. After acquisition, the valuation of the open space areas for property
taxes may take into account and be limited by the restriction on the future use of the
parcel.
General revenues can be spent, or local general revenue bonds can be issued for the
purpose of acquiring open space resources. A dedicated revenue stream is another
approach to funding open land acquisition or protection. However, no general provision of
law allows municipalities to establish open space protection funds. Currently only a limited
number of municipalities have been granted authority by the New York State Legislature to
create funds--known as Community Preservation Funds--to protect open space. These
funds are usually capitalized through a portion of the community's real estate transfer tax
and are subject to a vote of local residents.
4~ New York State Legislative Commission on Rural Resources Chair Senator George H. Winner, Jr, New York Land
Use Tools: Counties, Cities, Towns and Villages. A 2008 Survey of Land Use Planning & Regulations in NYS.
www.dos.state,ny,us/Iqss/pdfs/RuralResourceSu rvey.pdf,
42 New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and Department of State. Local Open Space Planning
Guide. May2007. www.dos.state.ny.us/Igss/pdfs/openspaces.pdf,
43 See www.dos.state.ny.us/Iqss/traininq.htm.
,4 See vcwwdecny.qov/docs/lands forests pdf/osp09chapter6.pdf. The 2009 New York State Open Space Plan
contains a comprehensive list of State programs that partner with municipalities and private landowners, In addition the
New York State Department of State's, Division of Local Government Services and the New York State Office of the
State Comptroller's, Division of Local Government and School Accountability provide assistance and training to local
governments.
Page
Currently, 11 New York State Towns have specific authority to create community
preservation funds? In addition, Chapter 596 of the laws of 2007 gave municipalities in
Putnam and Westchester counties the authority to create these funds. The towns of East
Hampton, Southampton, Southold, Riverhead and Shelter Island on Long Island and the
Hudson Valley towns of Red Hook and Warwick established community preservation funds
through State legislative enactment and a local vote. These towns implemented a
planning program to identify open space values to protect, parcels of land in line with these
values and mechanisms to protect them.
Private Protection Pro,qrams
Government and private organizations offer a number of programs to assist private
landowners in protecting open space values.
State and federal agencies offer programs that assist landowners in managing their
property for open space purposes. For example, the New York State Department of
Environmental Conservation runs a Cooperative Forest Management Program that offers
private landowners assistance from a trained forester in the development of a forest
management plan.46 The plan identifies the landowner's goals for the forested land and
then identifies activities to manage the lands to meet these goals. The federal government
offers the Environmental Quality Incentives Program, which offers funding to assist
landowners in implementing management actions?z
Private land trusts are nonprofit organizations dedicated to preserving open space. They
work with landowners to develop plans for preserving some or all of the open space values
found on their land. Plans can range from purchase of the land in fee title to purchase of
an easement that transfers development rights, or from exclusive use rights for the land
trust to an informal agreement to use the land in ways that preserve open space values.
Typically, land trusts work with landowners whose property contains desirable
characteristics such as habitat for endangered plants or animals, or unique recreational
opportunities. The New York State Conservation Partnership Program provides grants
and technical support to regional land trusts with funds from the New York State
Environmental Protection Fund (EPF). This program has assisted 67 regional land trusts
in the conservation of more than 11,000 acres of open space. A benefit of the
Conservation Partnership is that it helps attract funding from sources other than the State.
With an investment of $4.6 million in EPF funds this program has leveraged $10 million
additional conservation funding.
Tax Abatement
New York State has created programs to abate property and income taxes to encourage
landowners to maintain land uses that preserve open space values. To address the needs
of agriculture and forestry, New York State Law provides favorable property tax treatment
4s Section 64 of the New York State Town Law. Towns with authorization to create community preservation funds are
East Hampton, Riverhead, Shelter Island, Southampton, Southold, Brookhaven, Warwick, Red Hook, Chatham, FishkilI
and Northeast.
46 See www.dec ny.qov/Iands/5230 html.
47 See www dec n¥.qov/lands/55625 htmL
Page 15
for certain farm and timber lands. State law also provides tax credits applicable to State
income tax obligations for State taxpayers who donate conservation easements.48
New York State's Real Property Tax policies give significant latitude to local governments
in assessing the value of real property, often resulting in significant variability in
assessment practices from locality to locality. The financial pressure of property taxes
may contribute to decisions by landowners to subdivide and develop their property,
reducing the open space value of the land. Assessment practices can contribute to raising
tax bills on parcels in ways that make it uneconomic for certain land uses to continue. For
example, in areas that are undergoing development, if the characteristics of a parcel and
local ordinances would allow subdivision to occur, assessors may assign a value to
unused land that is part of a parcel based on its value as a subdivided building lot. Or, in
regions where timber production is a predominant land use, assessors may include the
contributory value of standing timber in a property's assessed value.
Landowners must manage forest crops for many years to realize a return on investment,
and annual property taxes can make forest management unprofitable. New York State
has established tax exemptions on lands in timber production, recognizing their economic
value. The program currently in effect--called the 480-a program (Section 480-a of the
Real Property Tax Law)--is open to property owners with at least 50 acres of timberland
who maintain a timber management plan and harvest timber on a schedule identified in the
plan. Under the program, the value of the exemption is 80 percent of the assessed value
of certified lands or any assessed value over $40 per acre, whichever is less. At the time
of timber harvest, a 6.0 percent yield tax is due to municipal taxing jurisdictions based on
the value of timber harvested?9
The 480-a program contains several provisions to ensure that it achieves its goal of
promoting forest management, and is not simply an undue benefit for large landowners or
real estate speculators. To remain in the program, landowners must commit their lands
every year to forest management for an additional ten years. Landowners who do not file
this annual commitment lose the tax benefits of the program, but must still adhere to the
forest management plan for the life of the most recent ten-year commitment. Violation of
the ten-year forest management commitment results in a penalty tax of 2.5 times the tax
savings received in the prior ten years plus interest,so
The 480-a program only abates property taxes on land in active timber production. Lands
that are part of a parcel enrolled in the program but are unsuitable for timber production,
such as lakes, streams, wetlands and rocky outcrops, are excluded from the program. Any
protection of ecosystem services beyond timber production is incidental to the program's
purpose.
New York State's Agriculture Districts Law (Article 25-AA of the New York State Agriculture
and Markets Law) provides reduced property tax assessment on lands used for
'~ Section 606.kk of the New York State Tax Law.
49 Joint Report of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and Board of Equalization and
Assessment on the Forest Tax Laws (Sections 480 & 480a of the Real Property Tax Law). December 1993.
www.orps.state nv us/ref/pubs/foresttaws/section 1 htm.
Page16
agriculture. The assessment is restricted to properties where at least seven acres of land
has been in agricultural production for the prior two years, generating at least $10,000 in
income. The value of the assessment on a particular farm is determined from values
assigned to categories of soil by the Department of Agriculture and Markets and the New
York State Board of Real Property Services.
Some of New York's neighboring states offer less restrictive and more broadly purposed
property tax exemption programs to encourage landowners to maintain their lands in open
space. For example, Pennsylvania offers property tax abatements for landowners who
maintain at least 10 acres of land in either active agricultural use, as agricultural reserve
use lands open to public access, or forest reserve use. Tax rates for lands enrolled in this
program are set by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture.$1
Recommendations
New York State should take additional steps to encourage local open space planning and
help ensure that the economic benefits of open space are recognized. The Office of the
State Comptroller provides the following seven recommendations for State and local
governments to consider.
Support Local Open Space Planning
New York State should encourage municipalities to undertake and implement plans to
conserve the ecosystem services provided by open space. Planning to address water
quality is particularly important.
In addition, the State must continue to provide training and other support services to
municipalities to ensure that they have the necessary expertise to recognize the value of
open space protection, identify valuable open space resources within their jurisdictions and
identify appropriate mechanisms to protect open space values.
New York State should encourage good planning at the municipal level, to help ensure that
critical local land use decisions are well-supported, because these decisions may raise or
lower the cost of infrastructure and other services for all New Yorkers. For example, the
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and Department of
Health project that it will cost more than $70 billion over the next 20 years to pay for the
necessary maintenance and upgrading of New York's water and sewer infrastructure.52
Land use decisions by municipalities related to efficient use of existing infrastructure and
preservation of ecosystem services will contribute to either raising or lowering these costs.
Finally, New York State government should consider setting standards for incorporating
ecosystem services into municipal land use plans. In addition, the State should provide
incentives to encourage municipalities to conduct planning that conforms with standards.
An example of this is found in proposed legislation to promote smart growth by giving
priority in the distribution of State assistance to local governments that have adopted
5~ See wwwtimbertax.orqlstatetaxes/stateslproptaxtpennsylvaniaasp.
52 Office of the State Comptroller, Division of Local Government Accountability "Cracks in the Foundation: Local
Government Infrastructure and Capital Planning Needs" www.osc.state n¥.us/Iocalqov/pubs/research/capitalplanninq pdf.
Page 17
comprehensive land use plans. New York State should ensure that all municipal
governments have the resources necessary to plan to protect the Iow cost ecosystem
services provided by open space and reward those municipalities that actually do so.
Allow Municipalities to Establish Community Preservation Funds
Currently only a limited number of New York State municipalities have authority granted by
the State Legislature to create funds--known as Community Preservation Funds--to
protect open space. To expand the availability of such funds, legislation could be enacted
by the State to authorize any municipality to create a community preservation fund, rather
than the current practice of requiring a separate, special legislative act for each
municipality. State law granting this authority to municipalities in Westchester and Putnam
counties requires that these municipalities develop Community Preservation Plans that
identify priorities for expenditure of funds? Eligible voters in the respective municipalities
then vote on whether or not to create a municipal funding stream to implement the plan.
This two-step process for creating funds will ensure that municipalities adequately evaluate
the open space values and functions desirable for preservation within their jurisdiction and
that the ultimate plan adopted is supported by local residents.
Evaluate Adequacy of Protections for Lands Providinq Ecosystem Services
New York State should evaluate existing regulatory programs to determine if they
adequately preserve ecosystem services. For example, wetlands and buffers of natural
vegetation adjacent to water bodies can retain floodwaters and remove contaminants
contained in surface runoff. The DEC should determine if statewide regulation and other
relevant rules and laws addressing land use in wetlands and lands adjacent to water
bodies are adequate to preserve ecosystem functions on the lands in question.
Improve State-Level Plannin,q for Open Space to Address Funding
While New York State's existing Open Space Planning process comprehensively assesses
land conservation needs on a statewide basis, this process does not include identification
of funding needs on a long-term basis, or identify funding sources to meet these needs.
The DEC should include assessment of long-term capital needs for open space
conservation and identify potential sources of funding to address these needs.
Improve Administration of Funds for Open Space Proqrams
The 2009 New York State Open Space Conservation Plan states that between 1996 and
2008, farmland protection projects totaling $556 million were not funded due to insufficient
program resources. These projects represent lost opportunities to promote a healthy farm
economy and to preserve the watershed protection services provided by the farm lands.
Given the fiscal challenges facing the State, it is critical to prioritize available funding
effectively, and to ensure that it is used in areas where demand is greatest and where the
potential return on the State's investment is maximized. A comprehensive assessment of
administration of the Environmental Protection Fund and other funding available for open
space programs should be conducted to ensure that funds' are being appropriately spent
and that available funding is being targeted appropriately.
New York State Chapter 596 of the Laws of 2007.
Page 18
Encouraqe Private Land Conservation
Programs that provide conservation assistance to private landowners, such as the
DEC Cooperative Forester Program, promote land management decisions that preserve
open space values on the land. In addition these programs may help landowners generate
an income from their property which can obviate the need to subdivide and develop the
property. New York State should explore opportunities to expand the reach of these
programs through working with municipal governments and other programs like
Cooperative Extension or soil and water districts that already provide educational services
to landowners.
Private land trusts perform a valuable function in educating private landowners on open
space values found on their property and developing land use plans that allow them to
preserve these values while realizing other goals, such as earning income or allowing
recreational use. New York State should explore ways to build on the success and
effectiveness of existing public/private partnerships such as the New York State
Conservation Partnership Program to encourage private land conservation efforts.
Consider Tax Abatements Reflecting the Value of Ecosystem Services
Numerous studies have shown that natural drainage and water purification services
provided by open space can substantially reduce public expenses to provide these
services. Property assessment practices that value undeveloped land based on its
potential value as development lots create an incentive for landowners to convert their
lands in ways that reduce or eliminate water-related ecosystem services. As natural water
retention and purification functions are lost, they will have to be replaced with engineered
systems administered by municipal entities and paid for by property taxes. This
circumstance raises property tax rates for all residents. Studies also show that programs
that preserve natural features, such as wetlands or forests (natural infrastructure), that
prevent the rapid release of storm water and filter pollutants from surface water can offset
the need for investments in engineered storm water management infrastructure, water
purification systems and increasing capacity at sanitary sewers.
If it can be established that property tax abatement programs designed to encourage
preservation of natural infrastructure provide a broad public benefit, are beneficial to all
taxpayers and will not impair the ability of municipalities to provide required services, New
York State should consider establishing tax abatements that encourage landowners to
maintain natural storm water abatement and water purification features on their lands.
This approach is supported by a 1993 report on implementation of New York's forest tax
laws produced by the DEC Commissioner and the Secretary of the Board of Equalization
and Assessment at the direction of the State Legislature. The report recommended that
the State amend the 480-a program to allow participants to manage for a "broader array of
forest values," including those addressing water quality? Any such program should
include protections such as those found in the 480-a program to ensure that the program
accomplishes its goals and does not provide an undue benefit to large landowners or real
estate speculators.
54 Joint Report of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and Board of Equalization and
Assessment on The Forest Tax Laws (Sections 480 & 480a of the Real Property Tax Law). December 1993.
www.orps.state,ny, us/ref/pubs/forestlaws/sec~ion:L htm.
Page 19
Conclusion
Well-planned open space protection can work together with other initiatives designed to
meet the vital needs of municipalities in economic development, affordable housing and
fiscal health. Rather than conflicting with other goals, open space preservation can
provide significant economic benefits. Not only does open space indirectly support
industries (such as forestry, forest based manufacturing, agriculture, outdoor industries
and tourism) that generate billions of dollars in the economy, it directly produces critical
ecosystem services. The choice for natural drainage over an engineered replacement can
translate into substantial cost savings for a municipality. This, however, is just one
example of how public infrastructure costs and therefore, local taxes, can be reduced by
utilizing the ecosystem services of open space.
Regional economic growth can also be enhanced by preserving open space, whether by
promoting industry, maintaining aesthetic values or offering outdoor recreational
opportunities. This, in turn, is linked to property values, which impact local revenue. The
potential to rely upon natural ecosystem services, rather than constructing artificial
replacements, directly impacts local expenditures. The interconnection among the goals of
fiscal health, affordable housing and economic growth makes it ever more important to
ensure that open space plans are well designed.
Well-designed plans, however, are predicated upon a thorough evaluation of a
community's goals. State and local governments must clearly identify the uses of open
space they wish to pursue. Since conflict can occur between different uses of open space,
it is critical to ascertain the desired goals for an area. New York State reviews and
prioritizes its statewide open space protection activities every three years as required in a
planning process,ss Many local governments also produce open space planning
documents. By engaging in a planning process, municipalities can weigh open space
protection goals in concert with other municipal goals to mitigate potential conflict.
55Article 49, Title 2 of the New York State Environmental Conservation Law. The New York State Open Space Plan
outlines New York State's goals in acquiring open space, rates potential parcels of open space and lists specific parcels
of land with the preferred method of protecting the land. The Open Space Plan can be viewed on the DEC's website at
www.dec ny qov/lands/47990 html.
Page 20
William W. Schriever
20275 Main Road
P. O. Box 128
Orient, NY 11957
Apartment 631-477-9009
Cell Phone 631-786-6252
Southolcl Town Clerk
April 6, 2010
Southold Town Board
53095 Route 25
P. O. Box 1179
Southold, NY 11971
Ladies and Gentlemen:
Re: Water Main To Orient
I am writing to ask for your support for the extension of the water main to Orient by the
Suffolk County Water Authority. I live in a house on the Main Road and I very much want to
connect to this water main as soon as it becomes available. My water system needs major repairs
and I decided to wait to install public water rather than to make another major investment in my
own water system. With your support, I hope the new water main will be in operation by
sometime this fall.
I would like to share my experience with you so you can better understand and appreciate
the advantages of having public water instead of maintaining a private well and water system on
your own property. I live in a house that is 100 years old this year. My late wife and I owned
and maintained this house for 53 of those years. Prior to that my wife's family first rented the
house and then purchased it as a summer residence. The house is now on a lot of 1.6 acres so the
spacing of the well from the cesspools has not been a problem. It sits on a knoll hundreds of feet
from the salt water of the Bay so flooding and salt-water intrusion has not been a problem.
Farming on the hill behind the house was discontinued probably a hundred years ago so the
water is not contaminated with agricultural chemicals. As you might expect, the well water is
really excellent to drink - the best water in Orient. So what would be the advantages to me of
having public water?
Originally the house was supplied with water by a windmill in the backyard. When
electricity became available in Orient in the 1920's a 1 ~A-inch well point was driven from the
bottom of a brick-lined excavation about 5 feet deep dug in the floor of the cellar and a shallow-
well pump was installed at the bottom of that excavation. When my wife and I acquired the
house upon the death of her mother in 1957, I had a 2-inch stainless-steel well point driven from
the bottom of the excavation and a ~-horsepower shallow-well Burks turbine pump installed.
That well point is still in service. So what is my problem?
The well water is slightly acid and it eats up the metal plumbing including the pump
itself. The pump has to be rebuilt or replaced every three or four years. The pipe that carries the
water from the pump to the water storage tank becomes plugged with minerals that build up
inside the pipe so the whole pipe assembly must be replaced every three or four years. The
corrosion that occurs in the transition between the steel pipe and a brass valve will eat through
the steel pipe in a few years. I developed a technique of coating the inside of the steel pipe with
April 6,2010 - I ~ William W. Schriever
William W. Schriever
20275 Main Road
P. O. Box 128
Orient, NY 11957
Apartment 631-477-9009
Cell Phone 631-786-6252
epoxy to retard the corrosion but even that only adds a few years to the life of the pipe. The
minerals build up in the ¼-inch tapping where the pressure switch screws on to the steel pipe and
inside the pressure switch itself. So the pressure switch must be removed, disassembled and
cleaned about once a year. Finally, the steel pipe above the well point, the cast iron in the pump,
the steel pipe that connects the pump to the tank and the steel tank itself all generate mst that
must be flushed out of the tank and the water plumbing throughout the house periodically to
maintain clean water. All of this replacement and maintenance of the water system is not only
expensive but the demands of these unscheduled repairs are a continuing source of irritation for
me as the homeowner. Now that I am in my 80's I'no longer have the strength to do the repairs
myself. Imagine the cost to the homeowner who must hire a plumber every time his water
system needs to be repaired.
Back in the days of the hurricanes the loss of electrical power, sometimes for weeks,
would mean no power was available to pump the water for the house. First we obtained a 1.5-
kilowatt portable generator just big enough to mn the water pump and a few lights. We had to
fuel and maintain that generator around the clock just to have running water. After I acquired the
house in 1957 I installed a 5-kilowatt natural-gas-fueled automatic generator to maintain
electrical power to the house during and after these storms. What a blessing that generator has
been over the last 50 years. For anyone without an automatic generator simply installing public
water will provide running water at no additional expense whenever the electricity has been
knocked out in a storm.
For those who are unable to obtain really good water from a well on their own property,
public water is the only practical way to obtain good water. A system of filters including reverse
osmosis can provide only tiny quantities of good water at a very substantial cost. In addition, the
homeowner still has all of the costs of maintaining his own well and water system. A
homeowner without public water has no guarantee that he will be able to continue obtaining
potable water on his property. A homeowner with public water is guaranteed that the
government will undertake any expense necessary to supply him with potable water. That
guarantee could be worth a small fortune to a homeowner who otherwise would have to carry his
water home from the grocery store in bottles as some residents of Orient do now.
Here is an example of the sudden loss of good water for some residents of Orient:
During the major hurricanes such a Hurricane Carol in 1954, the salt water from the Bay flooded
the homes along Village Lane all of the way up to the Methodist Church. The salt water seeped
into the ground and spoiled the well water for those homes until the rains eventually flushed out
the salt months or even years later. Another example: The Tydol filling station that used to be at
the entrance to Oyster Pond Lane leaked gasoline into the aquifer and spoiled the well water
along Oyster Pond Lane. It took years for the rains to flush out the gasoline. Also the homes
along Village Lane are on small lots and the well water is subject to contamination from cesspool
waste and other local sources of pollution. Thus the homes along Village Lane are especially in
need of public water and they could be serviced from this new water main.
April 6, 2010 - 2 - William W. Schriever
William W. Schriever
20275 Main Road
P. O. Box 128
Orient, NY 11957
Apartment 631-477-9009
Cell Phone 631-786-6252
One of my concerns is providing a water supply for fire sprinklers in larger homes like
mine, the Oysterpond School, the Orient Fire House, Poquatuck Hall and other valuable
buildings. It is my understanding is that the fire code will require a fire sprinkler system to have
a connection to a public water supply to insure an adequate and reliable source of water. In the
years to come, the Southold Town Board may decide to require fire sprinklers in new buildings,
especially large homes and apartments and commercial and institutional buildings. Having a
public water supply available is essential to provide good fire protection in the community. Just
having fire hydrants along the Main Road will decrease the cost of fire insurance for all of the
homes within a certain distance of these hydrants.
The Orient Association has been promoting the idea that the availability of public water
within the western part of Orient will create an unusual demand for the rezoning of certain
parcels of vacant land and thereby permit the construction of hundreds of new homes.
Presumably these new residential units would attract bad people to Orient and thereby ruin the
community. The best defense for the extension of public water to Orient is to observe what has
happened in East Marion, an entirely comparable community that has had public water available
for years. Where are the hundreds of new homes the Orient Association claims will be
constructed in spite of the best efforts of the Southold Town Board to maintain control?
Obviously their fear is unwarranted. Some of the residents of Orient need public water now.
There is no valid reason to delay the installation of the new water main.
I think it is time for the Southold Town Board to reassert its control over the community
of Orient. The voters of Orient helped elect you to office to represent them. The taxpayers of
Orient help pay your salary and your expenses. It is time for you to represent the community in
obtaining public water for Orient.
Very truly sours,
William W. Schriever
April 6, 2010 - 3 - William W. Schriever
Berliner, Sandra
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Joan Turturro [orientinn@earthlink. net]
Monday, April 05, 2010 3:54 PM
Russell, Scott
Lanza, Heather; Berliner, Sandra; input@orientwater.info
Orient Water Main
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and
for insisting that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to
the Town Water Map, completes an environmental study and confirms that there is the
necessary level of public interest in the pipeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to
follow the proper and lawful sequence of events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and
plenty of it.
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile
environments in Orient, and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and
[ttle development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan
for Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all
environmental studies and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Joan Turturro
Address:25500 Main Road
Orient, NY 11957
Berliner, Sandra
Page 1 of 1
From: Marguerite A Orestuk [morestuk@optonline.net]
Sent: Monday, April 05, 2010 3:43 PM
To: Russ'ell, Scott
Cc: Lanza, Heather; Berliner, Sandra; input@orientwater.info
Subject: Orient Water Main
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and
for insisting that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to
the Town Water Map, completes an environmental study and confirms that there is the
necessary level of public interest in the pipeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to
follow the proper and lawful sequence of events.
Ose know that I want in Orient have clean and
single
every
person
to
access
to
water
plenty
of it.
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile environments
in Orient, and our conununity vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and little
development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan
for Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all
environmental studies and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
l~guerite Orestuk
Address: 38640 Main Road
Orient, NY 11957
4/5/2010
Berliner, Sandra
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Jeanne Markel [jm.markel@gmail.com] on behalf of Jeanne Markel
[jeanne. markel@verizon, net]
Monday, April 05, 2010 3:34 PM
Russell, Scott
Lanza, Heather; Berliner, Sandra; input@orientwater.info
[NEWSENDER] - Orient Water Main - Message is from an unknown sender
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and
for insisting that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to
the Town Water Map, completes an environmental study and confirms that there is the
necessary level of public interest in the pipeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to
follow the proper and lawful sequence of events.
Please know that we want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and
plenty of it.
However, we also want to make sure this is done ina way that protects the fragile
vironments in Orient, and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and
ttle development.
Our request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan
for Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all
environmental studies and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Jeanne Markel
Chris Wedge
P.O. Box 423
100 Harbor Road
Orient, NY 11957
Berliner, Sandra
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Jennifer Valentino [miss_fer98@yahoo.com]
Monday, April 05, 2010 3:33 PM
Russell, Scott
Lanza, Heather; Berliner, Sandra; input@orientwater.info
[NEWSENDER] - Orient Water Main - Message is from an unknown sender
Deaf Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and
for insisting that SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to
the Town Water Map, completes an environmental study and confirms that there is the
necessary level of public interest in the pipeline. In doing this, you are asking SCWA to
follow the proper and lawful sequence of events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and
plenty of it.
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile
environments in Orient, and our community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and
.ttle development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan
for Southold is in place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all
environmental studies and obtained all necessary permits.
Sincerely,
Carl and Jennifer Valentino
Address:
235 Latham Lane
Orient Point, NY 11957
Jenn Valentino
~1.334.1476
from my iPhone
Woodhull, Ruthanne
Page 1 of 1
1
From: Richard Gluckman [rgluckman@gluckmanmayner.com]
Sent: Monday, April 05, 2010 3:32 PM
To: Russell, Scott
Cc: Lanza, Heather; Bediner, Sandra; input@orientwater.info
Subject: Orient Water Main
Dear Supervisor Russell and Members of the Town Board,
Thank you for holding the Public Hearing on the proposed Water Main to Browns Hills, and for insisting that
SCWA not proceed until and unless it obtains the necessary amendment to the Town Water Map, completes an
environmental study and confirms that there is the necessary level of public interest in the pipeline. In doing this,
you am asking SCWA to follow the proper and lawful sequence of events.
Please know that I want every single person in Orient to have access to clean water and plenty of it.
However, I also want to make sure this is done in a way that protects the fragile environments in Orient, and our
community vision to maintain open spaces, farmland and little development.
My request is that you table this amendment to the water map until the Comprehensive Plan for Southold is in
place, and until it has been verified that SCWA has completed all environmental studies and obtained all
necessary permits.
In addition, I would like to thank Supervisor Russell for his clear and fair presentation at Poquatuck Hall this past
winter to explain the situation and answer questions.
I am strongly against the water main proposal. I do not think the cost to is justified in order to serve the
Browns Hills Association. My understanding is that the source of the water for this water line is the
wells in East Marion and that the cost of servicing the existing wells in Browns Hills would never be
amortized by the new water main. In addition, I am skeptical that today's regulatory process can
withstand developmental pressure in the future, especially with the sale of Plum Island looming. I know
it may not affect me but it will affect my kids.
I believe Stimulus Money would be better spent burying the Utility Lines from Riverhead to Orient (or
East Marion to Orient) as their vulnerability to storms affects far more people.
Sincerely,
Richard Gluckman
Address:
PO Box 554
Orient, NY.11957
4/5/2010
OFFICE LOCATION:
Town Hall Annex
54375 State Route 25
(cor. Main Rd. & Youngs Ave.t
Southold, NY 11971
MAILING ADDRESS:
P.O. Box 1179
Southold, NY 11971
Telephone: 631 765-1938
Fax: 631 765-3136
LOCAL WATERFRONT REVITALIZATION PROGRAM
TOWN OF SOUTHOLD RECEIVED
MEMORANDUM
2010
To: Supervisor Scott Russell
Town of Southold Town Board
From: MarkTerry, Principal Planner '
LWRP Coordinator
Date: April 19, 2010
Re: "A Local Law to Amend the Town of Southold Water Supply Plan Map
Extendin.q a Water Transmission Main to the Browns Hills Subdivision in
Orient"
This Local Law proposes to amend the Town of Southold Water Supply Plan Map to
include the extension of a water transmission main to the Browns Hills Subdivision.
Historically, the Water Supply Plan Map reflects the physical changes in the water
supply network since 2000. The Suffolk County Water Authority and Suffolk County
Department of Health Services have represented to the Town that the groundwater
quality of existing wells supplying the Browns Hills area are inadequate and pose a
significant concern that requires the extension of public water to the area. The
extension of the transmission main is intended to supply existinq development only and
is not intended to result in additional development pressure in the area.
The proposed local law has been reviewed to Chapter 268, Waterfront Consistency
Review of the Town of Southold Town Code and the Local Waterfront Revitalization
Program (LWRP) Policy Standards. Based upon the information provided to this
department as well as the records available to me, it is my recommendation that the
proposed action is CONSISTENT with the below listed LWRP Policy Standards and
therefore is CONSISTENT with the LWRP.
Policy I
Foster a pattern of development in the Town of Southold that
enhances community character, preserves open space, makes
efficient use of infrastructure, makes beneficial use of a coastal
location, and minimizes adverse effects of development.
The longstanding planning goals of the Town of Southold "reflect the interest in
preserving and enhancing the natural and built environment and providing opportunities
for a level of growth and expansion of the economic base that is compatible with the
existing scale of development, availability of water, existing sensitive environment of the
Town and its historic heritage" (Town of Southold Planning Board, 1985, p3). The
future pattern of land use proposed in the "Master Plan Update" encouraged
residential development to locate in and around existing hamlets "in order to preserve
and enhance the historic and cultural centers of the community, to support existing
commercial centers, to provide locations for moderately priced housing and to
encourage efficient and effective provision of community facilities and services" (Town
of Southold Planning Board, 1985, p6) and for commercial development to locate in
hamlet centers.
The proposed action will not result in new development.
Policy5 Protect and improve water quality and supply in the Town of
Southold.
The purpose of this policy is to protect the quality and quantity of water in the Town of
Southold. Quality considerations include both point source and non-point soume
pollution management so that existing and potential soumes of groundwater
contamination are either removed or reduced significantly. The primary quantity
consideration is the maintenance of an adequate supply of potable water in the Town to
supply the projected demand from residential and agricultural uses.
The Town of Southold's Water Supply Management & Watershed Protection Strategy.
was endorsed by the Town Board in June of 2000, and its goals and objectives are
incorporated by reference into Southold's Local Waterfront Revitalization Program. The
Goals and Objectives are listed below:
Goals
1) To protect and preserve a healthful drinking water supply sufficient to serve
the existing future residents of the Town, while maintaining and enhancing the
natural resources and quality of life in the town.
2) To provide public drinkinq water to existinq residents and businesses in need
without precipitatinq uncontrolled growth.
3) To manage future growth to ensure a sustainable drinking water supply from
the Southold Township sole source aquifer.
4) To preserve the town's farming blocks in order to protect farming operations,
limit the need for additional drinking water in these areas, and provide,
through agricultural best management practices, a continual improvement to
the groundwater quality in the area.
5) To conserve drinking water supplies by reducing wasteful water use.
6) To integrate land conservation, agricultural activities, and development
control to preserve a sustainable balance between water recharge and
drinking water use.
7) To constructively protect the Town's sole source aquifer from contamination
by inappropriate land use practices.
Obiectives
1) Develop land management and zoning strategies:
To prevent inappropriate land uses or practices from occurring within
designated groundwater protection areas;
To guild development in order to minimize its impact on the
groundwater aquifer;
To scale development to a level which respects the limitations of water
supply.
2) Develop strategies to mitigate or remove existing threats to designated
groundwater protection areas, or mitigate possible deterioration to drinking
water quality, especially in private wells.
3) Promote and guild compact, ordedy growth into areas where sustainable
drinking water supplies exist.
4) Preserve and protect groundwater recharge areas in and around existing and
planned drinking water supply well-heads.
5) Accommodate growth and change within the Town which: respects the
geographical and geological limitations to the drinking water supply; does not
damage the groundwater aquifer; does not, by cumulative impact, destroy the
fundamental economic base, environmental character and unique way of life
which make up the quality of life in the Township of Southold.
(Source: Town of Southold Water Supply Management & Watershed Protection
Strategy. Charles J. Voorhis, Nelson, Pope & Voorhis, LLC and Valerie Scopaz, Town
of Southold Planning Board/Department, June 2000, p.3, Section 1.4)
The proposed action will improve water quality and supply in the Town of Southold
(Orient) to existing residences and businesses.
Pursuant to Chapter 268, the Town Board shall consider this recommendation in
preparing its written determination regarding the consistency of the proposed action.
Cc: Martin Finnegan, Town Attorney
Jennifer Andaloro, Assistant Town Attorney
RESOLUTION 2010-331
DEFEATED
DOC ID: 5881
THIS IS TO CERTIFY THAT THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION NO. 2010-331 WAS
DEFEATED AT THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE SOUTHOLD TOWN BOARD ON
APRIL 20, 2010:
WHEREAS there has been presented to the Town Board of the Town of Southold, Suffolk
County, New York, on the 23rd day of February 2010, a Local Law entitled "A LOCAL LAW
TO AMEND THE TOWN OF SOUTHOLD WATER SUPPLY PLAN MAP EXTENDING
A WATER TRANSMISSION MAIN TO THE BROWNS HILLS SUBDIVISION IN
ORIENT" and
WHEREAS the Town Board of the Town of Southold held a public hearing on the aforesaid
Local Law at which time all interested persons were given an opportunity to be heard, now
therefor be it
RESOLVED that the Town Board of the Town of Southold hereby ENACTS the proposed local
law entitled, "A LOCAL LAW TO AMEND THE TOWN OF SOUTHOLD WATER
SUPPLY PLAN MAP EXTENDING A WATER TRANSMISSION MAIN TO THE
BROWNS HILLS SUBDIVISION IN ORIENT" reads as follows:
LOCAL LAW NO. of 2010
A Local Law entitled, "A Local Law to Amend the Town of Southold Water Supply Plan
Map Extending a Water Transmission Main to the Browns Hills Subdivision in Orient"
BE IT ENACTED by the Town Board of the Town of Southold as follows:
Section 1. Legislative Intent.
This Local Law proposes to amend the Town of Southold Water Supply Plan Map to include the
extension ora water transmission main to the Browns Hills Subdivision. Historically, the Water
Supply Plan Map reflects the physical changes in the water supply network since 2000. The
Suffolk County Water Authority and Suffolk County Department of Health Services have
represented to the Town that the groundwater quality of existing wells supplying the Browns
Hills area are inadequate and pose a significant concern that requires the extension of public
water to the area. The extension of the transmission main is intended to supply existing
development only and is not intended to result in additional development pressure in the area.
Section 2. Enactment.
Based on the goals of the Suffolk County Water Authority and Suffolk County Department of
Health Services to provide safe drinking water to the Browns Hills Subdivision, and upon our
consideration of the recommendation of the Suffolk County Water Authority and the Suffolk
Resolution 2010-331 Board Meeting of April 20, 2010
County Department of Health Services, the environmental consultant retained by the Town and
the public comments taken at the public hearing, we hereby amend the Town of Southold Water
Supply Plan Map to include the extension of a water transmission main to the Browns Hills
Subdivision.
Section 3.
The Southold Water Supply Plan Map as adopted by Resolution No. 31 on June 20, 2000 by the
Town Board, and most recently amended by Resolution No. 2007-603, is hereby amended to
reflect the extension of a water transmission main to the Browns Hills Subdivision.
Section 4. Severability.
If any clause, sentence, paragraph, section, or part of this Local Law shall be adjudged by any
court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, the judgment shall not affect the validity of this law
as a whole or any part thereof other than the part so decided to be unconstitutional or invalid.
Section 5. Effective Date.
This Local Law shall take effect immediately upon filing with the Secretary of State as provided
by law.
Elizabeth A. Neville
Southold Town Clerk
RESULT: DEFEATED [0 TO 6]
MOVER: Christopher Talbot, Councilman
SECONDER: Vincent Orlando, Councilman
NAYS: Ruland, Orlando, Talbot, Krupski Jr., Evans, Russell
Updated: 4/20/2010 2:53 PM by Lynda Rudder Page 2
RESOLUTION 2010-190
ADOPTED
DOC ID: 5742
THIS IS TO CERTIFY THAT THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION NO. 2010-190 WAS
ADOPTED AT THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE SOUTHOLD TOWN BOARD ON
FEBRUARY 23, 2010:
WHEREAS, the Town Board of the Town of Southold has previously adopted the "Southold
Water Supply Plan Map" which shows the areas of existing and proposed water mains in the
Town; and
WHEREAS, the Town Board has been asked to amend the Southold Water Supply Plan Map to
include the extension of a water transmission main to the Browns Hills subdivision in Orient;
and
WHEREAS, there has been presented to the Town Board of the Town of Southold, Suffolk
County, New York, on the 23rd day of February, 2010, a Local Law entitled "A Local Law to
Amend the Town of Southold Water Supply Plan Map Extending a Water Transmission
Main to the Browns Hills Subdivision in Orient" now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED that the Town Board of the Town of Southold will hold a public hearing on the
aforesaid Local Law at the Southold Town Hall, 53095 Main Road, Southold, New York, on the
6th day of April, 2010 at 5:30 p.m. at which time all interested persons will be given an
opportunity to be heard.
The proposed Local Law entitled, "A Local Law to Amend the Town of Southold Water
Supply Plan Map Extending a Water Transmission Main to the Browns Hills Subdivision
in Orient" reads as follows:
LOCAL LAW NO. 2010
A Local Law entitled, "A Local Law to Amend the Town of Southold Water Supply Plan
Map Extending a Water Transmission Main to the Browns Hills Subdivision in Orient ".
BE IT ENACTED by the Town Board of the Town of Southold as follows:
Section 1. Legislative Intent.
This Local Law proposes to amend the Town of Southold Water Supply Plan Map to
include the extension of a water transmission main to the Browns Hills Subdivision.
Historically, the Water Supply Plan Map reflects the physical changes in the water supply
network since 2000. The Suffolk County Water Authority and Suffolk County Department of
Health Services have represented to the Town that the groundwater quality of existing wells
supplying the Browns Hills area are inadequate and pose a significant concern that requires the
extension of public water to the area. The extension of the transmission main is intended to
Resolution 2010-190 Board Meeting of February 23,2010
supply existing development only and is not intended to result in additional development
pressure in the area.
Section 2. Enactment.
Based on the goals of the Suffolk County Water Authority and Suffolk County
Department of Health Services to provide safe drinking water to the Browns Hills Subdivision,
and upon our consideration of the recommendation of the Suffolk County Water Authority and
the Suffolk County Department of Health Services, the environmental consultant retained by the
Town and the public comments taken at the public hearing, we hereby amend the Town of
Southold Water Supply Plan Map to include the extension of a water transmission main to the
Browns Hills Subdivision.
Elizabeth A. Neville
Southold Town Clerk
RESULT: ADOPTED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Vincent Orlando, Councilman
SECONDER: Albert Kmpski Jr., Councilman
AYES: Ruland, Orlando, Talbot, Krupski Jr., Evans, Russell
Updated: 3/14/2010 2:44 PM by Linda Cooper Page 2
Southold Town Board - Letter Board Meeting of February 23, 2010
RESOLUTION 2010-190
ADOPTED
Item # 5.29
DOC ID: 5742
THIS IS TO CERTIFY THAT THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION NO. 2010-190 WAS
ADOPTED AT THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE SOUTHOLD TOWN BOARD ON
FEBRUARY 23, 2010:
WHEREAS, the Town Board of the Town of Southold has previously adopted the "Southold
Water Supply Plan Map" which shows the areas of existing and proposed water mains in the
Town; and
WHEREAS, the Town Board has been asked to amend the Southold Water Supply Plan Map to
include the extension of a water transmission main to the Browns Hills subdivision in Orient;
and
WHEREAS, there has been presented to the Town Board of the Town of Southold on the 23rd
day of February, 2010, a Local Law entitled "A LOCAL LAW TO AMEND THE TOWN OF
SOUTHOLD WATER SUPPLY PLAN MAP EXTENDING A WATER TRANSMISSION
MAIN TO THE BROWNS HILLS SUBDIVISION IN ORIENT"; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED that the Town Board of the Town of Southold will hold a public hearing on the
aforesaid local law at the Southold Town Hall, 53095 Main Road, Southold, New York, on
the 6th day of April, 2010, at 5:30 p.m. at which time all interested parties will be given an
opportunity to be heard. The proposed water main extension is to be installed along Route 25
from its present terminus in the vicinity of Trumans Path to Browns Hills Road.
Elizabeth A. Neville
Southold Town Clerk
RESULT: ADOPTED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Vincent Orlando, Councilman
SECONDER: Albert Krupski Jr., Councilman
AYES: Ruland, Orlando, Talbot, Krupski .lr., Evans, Russell
Generated February 25, 2010 Page 37
Thanks. Yes this is the first time it has been done by LL but it's not the first time a LL doesn't go into the
code. Whenever we did a moratorium it was by LL but was not inserted into the Town Code.
Linda J. Cooper
Deputy Town Clerk
Town of Southold
631-765-1800
Life may not be the party we hoped for, but as long as we are here, we might as well dancer
If you really want to be happy, nobody can stop you
From-' HarLin Finnegan [mailLo:marLindfinnegan@gmail,com] On Behalf Of MarLin Finnegan
Sent= Thursday, March 04, 2010 12:44 PM
To= Cooper, Linda
Subject: Re: Water map PH NoLice
Looks fine Linda. I believe this is the first time this is being done by local law. I will talk to Jen
about how this will make it's way into the code if at all.
Martin Finnegan
Sent from my iPhone
On Mar 4, 2010, at 12:08 PM, "Cooper, Linda" <Linda. Cooper~town.southold.ny.us> wrote:
Since this LL is different from the norm would you mind reviewing it for me? I plan on
having it published in the March 25 edition of the ST.
Thanks,
Icoop
<Water map.doc>
APR. 20.2010 1:44PM N0.708 P. 1
OFFICE LOCATION:
Town Hall A.Unex
5~75 State Route 25
(cor~ Mafia Rd. & You~ Ave.)
Southold, NY 11971
MAILING ADDRESS:
P.O. Box 1179
Southold, iNrY 11971
Telephone: 631 765-1938
Fza~ aa1 765-3136
LOCAL WATERFRONT P~EVIT.~I.TZATION PROGRAM
TOWN OF SOUTHOLD
MEMORANDUM
RECEIVED
APR 2 0 2010
To: Supervisor Scott Russell
Town ol' Southold Town Board ~
From: Mark Terry, Prir!c pa Planner
LWf~P Coordinator
Date: Apdl 19, 2010
~oufh0hl To~'n Cl'e~{
Re:
"A Local Law to Amend the Town of Southold Water Supply Plan Map
Extendin.q a Water Transmission Main to the Browns Hills Subdivision in
Orient"
This Local Law proposes to amend the Town of Southold Water Supply Plan Map to
include the extension of a water transmission main to the Browns Hills Subdivision.
Historically, the Water Supply Plan Map reflects the physical changes in the water
supply network since 2000. The Suffolk County Water Authority and Suffolk County
Department of Health Services have represented to the Town that the groundwater
quality of existing wells supplying the Browns Hills area are inadequate and pose a
significant concern that requires the extension of public water to the area. The
extension of the transmission main is intended to supply existinq development only and
is not intended to result in additional development pressure in the area.
The proposed local law has been reviewed to Chapter 268, Waterfront Consistency
Review of the Town of Southold Town Code and the Local Waterfront Revitalization
Program (LWRP) Policy Standards. Based upon the information provided to this
department as well as the records available to me, it is my recommendation that the
proposed action is CONSISTENT with the below listed LWRP Policy Standards and
therefore is CONSISTENT with the LWRP.
Policy 1
Foster a pattern of development in the Town of Southold that
enhances community character, preserves open space, makes
efficient use of infrastructure, makes beneficial use of a coastal
location, and minimizes adverse effects of development.
APR, 20.2010' 1:44PM N0.708 P, 2
The longstanding planning goals of the Town of Southold "reflect the interest in
preserving and enhancing the natural and built environment and providing opportunities
for a level of growth and expansion of the economic base that is compatible with the
existing scale of development, availability of water, existing sensitive environment of the
Town and its historic heritage" (Town of Southold Planning Board, 1985, p3). The
future pattern of land use proposed in the "Master Plan Update" encouraged
residential development to locate in and around existing hamlets "in order to preserve
and enhance the historic and cultural centers of the community, to support existing
commercial centers, to provide locations for moderately priced housing and to
encourage efficient and effective provision of community facilities and services" (Town
of Southold Planning Board, 1985, p6) and for commercial development to locate in
hamlet centers.
The proposed action will not result in new development.
Policy
Protect and improve water quality and supply in the Town of
Southold.
The purpose of this policy is to protect the quality and quantity of water in the Town of
Southold. Quality considerations include both point source and non-point source
pollution management so that existing and potential sources of groundwater
contamination are either removed or reduced significantly. The primary quantity
consideration is the maintenance of an adequate supply of potable water in the Town to
supply the projected demand from residential and agricultural uses.
The Town of Southold's Water Supply Management & Watershed Protection Strategy.
was endorsed by the Town Board in June of 2000, and its goals and objectives are
incorporated by reference into Southold's Local Waterfront Revitalization Program. The
Goals and Objectives are listed below;
Goals
To protect and preserve a healthful drinking water supply sufficient to serve
the existing future residents of the Town, while maintaining and enhancing the
natural resources and quality of life in the town.
2) To provide public drinkinq water to existin(~ residents and businesses in nee,'~
without precipitatin.q uncontrolled qrowth.
.3) To manage future growth to ensure a sustainable drinking water supply from
the Southold Township sole source aquifer.
4) To preserve the town's farming blocks in order to protect farming operations,
limit the need for additional drinking water in these areas, and provide,
through agricultural best management practices, a continual improvement to
the groundwater quality in the area.
5) To conserve drinking water supplies by reducing wasteful water use.
6) To integrate land conservation, agricultural activities, and development
control to preserve a sustainable balance between water recharge and
drinking water use.
7) To constructively protect the Town's sole source aquifer; from contamination
by inappropriate land use practices.
APR. 20,2010 1:44PM NO,?08 P. 3
Ob/ectives
1) Develop land management and zoning strategies;
To prevent inappropriate land uses or practices from occurring within
designated groundwater protection areas;
· To guild development in order to minimize its impact on the
groundwater aquifer;
To scale development to a level which respects the limitations of water
supply.
2) Develop strategies to mitigate or remove existing throats to designated
groundwater protection areas, or mitigate possible deterioration to drinking
water quality, especially in pdvate wells.
3) Promote and guild compact, orderly growth into areas where sustainable
ddnking water supplies exist.
4) Prese~e and protect groundwater recharge areas in and around existing and
planned ddnking water supply well-heads.
5) Accommodate growth and change within the Town which: respects the
geographical and geological limitations to the drinking water supply; does not
damage the groundwater aquifer; does not, by cumulative impact, destroy the
fundamental economic base, environmental character and unique way of life
which make up the quality of life in the Township of Southold.
(Source: Town of Southold Water Supp/y Management & Watershed Protection
Strategy. Charles J. Voorhis, Ne/son, Pope & Voorhis, LLC and Va/erie Scopaz, Town
of Southo/d P/anning Board/Department, June 2000, p.3, Section 1.4)
The proposed action will improve water quality and supply in the Town of Southold
(Orient) to existing residences and businesses.
Pursuant to Chapter 268, the Town Board shall consider this recommendation in
preparing its written determination regarding the consistency of the proposed action.
Cc: Mar~in Finnegan, Town Attorney
Jennifer Andaloro, Assistant Town Attorney
DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING
COUNTY OF SUFFOLK
STEVE LEVY
SUFFOLK COUNTY EXECUTIVE
April 7, 2010
Town of Southold
Town Hall, 53095 Main Road
P.O. Box 1179
Southold, New York 11971
Att: Ms. Elizabeth Neville, Town Clerk
THOMAS A. ISLES, A.I.C.P
DIRECTOR OF PLANNING
RECEIVED
APR ! 2
outhold Town Clett:
Re: Application of"A Local Law to Amend the Town
of Southold Water Supply Plan Map Extending
a Water Transmission Main to the Browns Hill
Subdivision in Orient"
SCPC FileNo.: SD-10-01
Dear Ms. Neville:
Pursuant to the requirements of Sections A14-14 thru A14-25 of the Suffolk County Administrative
Code, the Suffolk County Planning Commission on April 7, 2010 reviewed the above captioned application
and after due study and deliberation have resolved to Approve the application with the following comments.
Comments:
Development of the transmission main should be in accordance with best fire protection practices.
· All proper local permits (road opening, etc.) should be secured prior to commencement of the
extension.
· All NYS DEC Permits should be secured prior to commencement of the extension.
APF:jc
Sincerely,
Thomas Isles, AICP
Dire~or of~- ~
anure P. Frele~fg ~
Chief Planner
LOCATION MAILING ADDRESS
H. LEE DENNISON BLDG.- 4TH FLOOR P.O. BOX 6100 (631) 853-5191
100 VETERANS MEMORIAL HIGHWAY HAUPPAUGE, NY 11788-0099 TELECOPIER (631) 853~t044
PLANNING BOARD MEMBERS
MARTIN H. SIDOR
Chair
W/LLIAM J. CREMERS
KENNETH L. EDWARDS
JOSEPH L. TOWNSEND
DONALD J. WILCENSKI
PLANNING BOARD OFFICE
TOWN OF SOUTHOLD
PRIORITY MEMORANDUM
MAILING ADDRESS:
P.O. Box 1179
Southold, NY 11971
OFFICE LOCATION:
Town Hall Annex
54375 State Route 25
(cor. Main Rd. & Youngs Ave.)
Southold, NY
Telephone: 631 765-1938
Fax: 631 765-3136
RF. CE;VZ :,)
To:
From:
Scott Russell, Town Supervisor
Members of the Town Board
Martin Sidor, Planning Board Chairperson
Members of the Planning Board
$outhoI~ T "' !~
Date: March 25, 2009
Re~
Planning Board Comments on Water Main Extension to Brown's Hills Subdivision.
The Planning Board has reviewed the above referenced proposed legislation and provides the following
comments.
The proposed water main extension is proposed to serve the Brown's Hills subdivision,
however, the Southold Water Supply Plan Map with Suffolk County Department of Health
Services Amendments (2009) indicates that the highest concentration of private wells with
impaired water quality occurs in and around the Village; e.g. Village Lane, Oyster Pond Lane,
King Street, Harbor Road, Douglas Road, Old Farm Road etc .... A second identified area
occurs within the "Orient by the Sea" subdivision. It is stron,qly recommended that all improved
lots which have been identified as containinR impaired water quality be included as priority
service areas to protect public health? Correspondin,qly, these areas should be included in the
pendin,q SEQRA action.
The project proposes that service connections to prospective Suffolk County Water Authority
customers are proposed to be free of charge, whereas in all other sections of the Town the
substantial fees to connect to public water were required to be paid by the landowner. How was
this waiver of fees applied? Are the parcels that abut the New York State Route 25 also going
to be connected free of charge?
The Planning Board will reserve any future concerns or comments on the extension of the water
main to Orient until the environmental review of the proposed action is complete.
Cc: Martin Finnegan, Town Attorney
Jennifer Andaloro, Assistant Town Attorney
#9683
STATE OF NEW YORK)
) SS:
COUNTY OF SUFFOLK)
Karen Kine of Mattituck, in said county, being duly sworn, says that she is
Principal Clerk of THE SUFFOLK TIMES, a weekly newspaper, published at
Mattituck, in the Town of Southold, County of Suffolk and State of New York, and that
the Notice of which the annexed is a printed copy, has been regularly published in
said Newspaper once each week for 1__ week(s), successively, commencing on the
25th dayof March, 2010.
Principal Clerk
Sworn to before me this
lA,GAL NOTICK
~ I$ mY ~N,
~ of ~e To~ of Sou~old, S~o~
~, New York, on ~e ~rd ~y of
~ and
Hc hea~, ~ he~ amend ~e To~ '
of Sou~o d Wa~r Su~ly pl~ ~p to
m ~k~ by Re~k~o~ No. 31 o~ .~e
recently amended by Resolution No.
NOTARY PUBLIC-STATE OF NEW YORK
No. 01 -V0610§050
Qualified in Suffolk County
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, there has been presented to the Town Board of the
Town of Southold, Suflblk County, New York, on the23rd day of February 2010, a Local
Law entitled "A LOCAL LAW TO AMEND THE TOWN OF SOUTHOLD
WATER SUPPLY PLAN MAP EXTENDING A WATER TRANSMISSION MAIN
TO THE BROWNS HILLS SUBDIVISION IN ORIENT" and
NOTICE IS HEREBY FURTHER GIVEN that the Town Board of the Town of
Southold will hold a public hearing on the aforesaid Local Law at the Southold Town
Hall, 53095 Main Road, Southold, New York, on the 6th day of April, 2010 at 5:30
p.m. at which time all interested persons will be given an opportunity to be heard.
The proposed local law entitled, "A LOCAL LAW TO AMEND THE TOWN OF
SOUTHOLD WATER SUPPLY PLAN MAP EXTENDING A WATER
TRANSMISSION MAIN TO THE BROWNS HILLS SUBDIVISION IN ORIENT"
reads as follows:
LOCAL LAW NO. 2010
A Local Law entitled, "A Local Law to Amend the Town of Southold Water Supply
Plan Map Extending a Water Transmission Main to the Browns Hills Subdivision in
Orient ".
BE IT ENACTED by the Town Board of the Town of Southold as follows:
Section 1. Legislative Intent.
This
Local
Law
proposes to amend the Town of Southold Water Supply Plan Map to
include the extension of a water transmission main to the Browns Hills Subdivision.
Historically, the Water Supply Plan Map reflects the physical changes in the water supply
network since 2000. The Suffolk County Water Authority and Suffolk County
Department of Health Services have represented to the Town that the groundwater quality
of existing wells supplying the Browns Hills area are inadequate and pose a significant
concern that requires the extension of public water to the area. The extension of the
transmission main is intended to supply existing development only and is not intended to
result in additional development pressure in the area.
Section 2. Enactment.
Based on the goals of the Suffolk County Water Authority and Suffolk County
Department of Health Services to provide safe drinking water to the Browns Hills
Subdivision, and upon our consideration of the recommendation of the Suffolk County
Water Authority and the Suffolk County Department of Health Services, the
environmental consultant retained by the Town and the public comments taken at the
public hearing, we hereby amend the Town of Southold Water Supply Plan Map to
include the extension of a water transmission main to the Browns Hills Subdivision.
Section 3.
The Southold Water Supply Plan Map as adopted by Resolution No. 31 on June 20, 2000
by the Town Board, and most recently amended by Resolution No. 2007-603, is hereby
amended to reflect the extension of a water transmission main to the Browns Hills
Subdivision.
Section 4. Severability.
If any clause, sentence, paragraph, section, or part of this Local Law shall be adjudged by
any court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, the judgment shall not affect the
validity of this law as a whole or any part thereof other than the part so decided to be
unconstitutional or invalid.
Section 5. Effective Date.
This Local Law shall take effect immediately upon filing with the Secretary of State as
provided by law.
Dated: February 23, 2010
BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD
OF THE TOWN OF SOUTHOLD
Elizabeth Neville
Town Clerk
PLEASE PUBLISH ON March 25~ 2010, AND FORWARD ONE (1) AFFIDAVIT OF
PUBLICATION TO ELIZABETH NEV1LLE, TOWN CLERK, TOWN HALL, P.O.
BOX 1179, SOUTHOLD, NY 11971.
Copies to the following:
The Suffolk Times
TC's Bulletin Board
Planning Dept.
Town Board Members
Building Department
Town Attorney
ZBA
STATE OF NEW YORK)
SS:
COUNTY OF SUFFOLK)
ELIZABETH A. NEVILLE, Town Clerk of the Town of Southold, New York being
duly sworn, says that on the /~/~ day of/f)~)~x~_~ , 2010, she affixed a notice of
which the annexed printed notice is a tree copy, in a proper and substantial manner, in
a most public place in the Town of Southold, Suffolk County, New York, to wit:
Town Clerk's Bulletin Board, 53095 Main Road, Southold, New York.
Re: Amend Water Map - Browns Hills, Orient
Elizabeth A. Neville
Southold Town Clerk
Sworn before me this
day of ~]r2.a.c.M..~, 2010.
Notary ublic
LINDA J COOPER
NOTARY PUBLIC, State of New York
NO. 01CO4@22563, Suffolk Coar~
Term Expires December 31, 20/~1
RESOLUTION 2010-259
ADOPTED
DOC ID: 5810
THIS IS TO CERTIFY THAT THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION NO. 2010-259 WAS
ADOPTED AT THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE SOUTHOLD TOWN BOARD ON
MARCH 23, 2010:
RESOLVED that the Town Board of the Town of Southold hereby authorizes Supervisor
Scott A. Russell to retain Nelson~ Pope & Voorhis~ LLC to perform a SEQRA review for an
Amendment to the Water Map regarding the Browns Hills Subdivision in Orient~ in
accordance with their Proposal dated March 8, 2010, at a cost not to exceed $3,500.00 (Budget
Line A. 1010.4.500.300), subject to the approval o f the Town Attorney.
Elizabeth A. Neville
Southold Town Clerk
RESULT: ADOPTED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Christopher Talbot, Councilman
SECONDER: Louisa P. Evans, Justice
AYES: Ruland, Orlando, Talbot, Krupski Jr., Evans, Russell
ELIZABETH A. NEVILLE, RMC, CMC
TOWN CLERK
REGISTRAR OF VITAL STATISTICS
MARRIAGE OFFICER
RECORDS MANAGEMENT OFFICER
FREEDOM OF INFORMATION OFFICER
Town Hall, 53095 Main Road
P.O. Box 1179
Southold, New York 11971
Fax (631) 765~6145
Telephone (631) 765-1800
southoldtown.northfork.net
OFFICE OF THE TOWN CLERK
TOWN OF SOUTHOLD
March 15, 2010
Re: Resolution Number 2010-190 "A Local Law
to Amend the Town of Southold Water supply Plan
Map Extending a Water Transmission Main to the
Browns Hills Subdivision in Orient"
Martin Sidor, Chairman
Southold Town Planning Board
54375 State Route 25
P O Box 1179
Southold, New York 11971
Dear Mr. Sidor,
The Southold Town Board at their regular meeting held on February 23,2010 adopted the
resolution referenced above. A certified copy is enclosed.
Please prepare an official report defining the Planning Department's recommendations with
regard to this proposed local law and forward it to me at a suitable time in order to allow
sufficient time for the Town Board to review it before the public hearing.. This proposed local
law will also be transmitted to the Suffolk County Planning Department for their review. The
date and time for this public hearing is 5:30 P.M., Tuesday, April 6, 2010. Please do not
hesitate to contact me, if you have any questions. Thank you.
Very truly yours,
Enclosure
cc: Town Board
Town Attorney
Elizabeth A. Neville
Southold Town Clerk
ELIZABETH A. NEVILLE, RMC, CMC
TOWN CLERK
REGISTRAR OF VITAL STATISTICS
MARRIAGE OFFICER
RECORDS MANAGEMENT OFFICER
FREEDOM OF INFORMATION OFFICER
Town Hall, 53095 Main Road
P.O. Box 1179
Southold, New York 11971
F~x (631) 765-6145
Telephone (631) 765-1800
southoldtown.northfork.net
OFFICE OF THE TOWN CLERK
TOWN OF SOUTHOLD
March 15, 2010
Re: Resolution Number 2010-190 "A Local Law
to Amend the Town of Southold Water supply Plan
Map Extending a Water Transmission Main to the
Browns Hills Subdivision in Orient"
Andrew P. Freleng, Chief Planner
Suffolk County Department of Planning
Post Office Box 6100
Hauppauge, New York 11788-0099
Dear Mr. Freleng:
The Southold Town Board at their regular meeting held on February 23,2010 adopted the
resolution referenced above. A certified copy is enclosed.
Please prepare an official report defining the Planning Department's recommendations with
regard to this proposed local law and forward it to me at a suitable time in order to allow
sufficient time for the Town Board to review it before the public hearing. This proposed local
law will also be transmitted to the Southold Town Planning Department for their review. The
date and time for this public hearing is 5:30 P.M., Tuesday, April 6, 2010. Please do not
hesitate to contact me, if you have any questions. Thank you.
Very truly yours,
Elizabeth A. Neville
Southold Town Clerk
]jo
Enclosure
cc: Town Board
Town Attorney
Southold Town Board - Letter Board Meeting of March 9, 2010
RESOLUTION 2010-209
ADOPTED
Item # 5.15
DOC ID: 5763
THIS IS TO CERTIFY THAT THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION NO. 2010-209 WAS
ADOPTED AT THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE SOUTHOLD TOWN BOARD ON
MARCH 9, 2010:
RESOLVED that the Town Board of the Town of Southold hereby authorizes and directs the
Town Clerk to forward the proposed Local Law entitled "A Local Law to Amend the Town
of Southold Water Supply Plan Map Extending a Water Transmission Main to the Browns
Hills Subdivision in Orient" to the Suffolk County Planning Commission and the Southold
Town Planning Board for their review and recommendation.
Elizabeth A. Neville
Southold Town Clerk
RESULT: ADOPTED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Albert Krupski Jr., Councilman
SECONDER: Vincent Orlando, Councilman
AYES: Ruland, Orlando, Talbot, Krupski Jr., Evans, Russell
Generated March 10, 2010 Page 29
Page 1 of 1
Cooper, Linda
From: Candice Schott [legals@timesreview.com]
Sent: Monday, March 15, 2010 4:08 PM
To: Cooper, Linda
Subject: RE: Legal Notice for 3/25/10
Hello Linda,
I have received the legal notice and we are good to go for the 3/25 issue.
Thanks and have a wonderful evening!
Candice
-Thankfully only one leak; the flashing around the chimney needs to be replaced. The rain (that was
coming down horizontally) managed to get underneath it and leak into the bedroom. Not complaining
though, it could have been a lot worse. Hope you were spared as well. ;)
From: Cooper, Linda [mailto:Linda.Cooper@town.southold.ny.us]
Sent: Monday, March 15, 2010 9:39 AM
To; Suffolk Times Legals
Subject.' Legal Notice for 3/25/10
Good morning,
Please confirm receipt of this legal notice to be published in the March 25, 2010 edition of the Suffolk
Times.
Thank you.
Linda Cooper
Hope you didn't suffer any power outages or damage as a result of the storm over the weekend.
3/15/2010
Page 1 of 1
Cooper, Linda
From: Finnegan, Martin
Sent: Monday, March 15, 2010 9:35 AM
To: Cooper, Linda
Subject: RE: Amend water map
That should be fine.
From: Cooper, Linda
Sent: Sunday, March 14, 2010 3:01 PM
To: Finnegan, Martin
Cc: Krauza, Lynne
Subject: Amend water map
Here is the legal notice of PH for the water map amendment. I have set it to be published on March 25,
2010. That is a week and a half before the PH. Is that okay with you?
3/15/2010
Page 1 of 1
Cooper, Linda
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Cooper, Linda
Monday, Mamh 15, 2010 9:39 AM
Suffolk Times Legals
Legal Notice for 3/25/10
Attachments: Amend water map.doc
Good morning,
Please confirm receipt of this legal notice to be published in the March 25, 2010 edition of the Suffolk
Times.
Thank you.
Linda Cooper
Hope you didn't suffer any power outages or damage as a result of the storm over the weekend.
3/15/2010
Page 1 of I
Cooper, Linda
From: Krauza, Lynne
Sent: Monday, March 08, 2010 1:58 PM
To: Cooper, Linda
Cc: Finnegan, Martin
Subject: LL/Amend Water Map - Browns Hills
Attachments: LL Water Map Browns Hills.doc
Hi Linda,
As we discussed last week, here is the local law that accompanies Resolution No. 2010-190. Please let
me know if you require anything further from our office in this regard. Thank you.
Lynne
3/14/2010
WHEREAS, there has been presented to the Town Board of the Town of Southold, Suffolk
County, New York, on the 23rd day of February, 2010, a Local Law entitled "A Local Law to
Amend the Town of Southold Water Supply Plan Map Extending a Water Transmission
Main to the Browns Hills Subdivision in Orient" now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED that the Town Board of the Town of Southold will hold a public hearing on the
aforesaid Local Law at the Southold Town Hall, 53095 Main Road, Southold, New York, on the
6th day of April, 2010 at 5:30 p.m. at which time all interested persons will be given an
opportunity to be heard.
The proposed Local Law entitled, "A Local Law to Amend the Town of Southold Water
Supply Plan Map Extending a Water Transmission Main to the Browns Hills Subdivision
in Orient" reads as follows:
LOCAL LAW NO. 2010
A Local Law entitled, "A Local Law to Amend the Town of Southold Water Supply Plan
Map Extending a Water Transmission Main to the Browns Hills Subdivision in Orient ".
BE IT ENACTED by the Town Board of the Town of Southold as follows:
Section 1. Legislative Intent.
This Local Law proposes to amend the Town of Southold Water Supply Plan Map to
include the extension of a water transmission main to the Browns Hills Subdivision.
Historically, the Water Supply Plan Map reflects the physical changes in the water supply
network since 2000. The Suffolk County Water Authority and Suffolk County Department of
Health Services have represented to the Town that the groundwater quality of existing wells
supplying the Browns Hills area are inadequate and pose a significant concern that requires the
extension of public water to the area. The extension of the transmission main is intended to
supply existing development only and is not intended to result in additional development
pressure in the area.
Section 2. Enactment.
Based on the goals of the Suffolk County Water Authority and Suffolk County
Department of Health Services to provide safe drinking water to the Browns Hills Subdivision,
and upon our consideration of the recommendation of the Suffolk County Water Authority and
the Suffolk County Department of Health Services, the environmental consultant retained by the
Town and the public comments taken at the public hearing, we hereby amend the Town of
Southold Water Supply Plan Map to include the extension of a water transmission main to the
Browns Hills Subdivision.
Section 3.
The Southold Water Supply Plan Map as adopted by Resolution No. 31 on June 20, 2000
by the Town Board, and most recently amended by Resolution No. 2007-603, is hereby amended
to reflect the extension of a water transmission main to the Browns Hills Subdivision.
Section 4. Severability.
If any clause, sentence, paragraph, section, or part of this Local Law shall be adjudged by any
court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, the judgment shall not affect the validity of this law
as a whole or any part thereof other than the part so decided to be unconstitutional or invalid.
Section 5. Effective Date.
This Local Law shall take effect immediately upon filing with the Secretary of State as provided
by law.
-2-