NewsletterSpring2010-WaterReport (1)

TOWN OF
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SPRING EDITION ~ 2010
FROM THE SUPERVISOR’S DESK
Looks like spring is here! Had my first ice cream cone of the year
last weekend. It’s always a good sign when the ice cream stands open back
up.
The budget for the year 2009 finished very well for the most part.
The General Fund, Highway Fund, and the Water Fund all finished in the
black, taking in more money than paid out.
The Sewer Fund finished in the red with higher expenses than
revenue. This has been due to the need to repair and replace some of the
older grinder pumps. Some are thirty years old! However, I have some
Jim Riester
good news! It looks like we will be receiving a grant for $485,000 for the
625-8833
grinder pump replacement project. This is something that we’ve been
working on over the last year and a half along with Congressman Chris Lee and his office
staff. The project was an “earmark “ of a bill passed in December so now all we have to do is
fill out the application and the money is ours. It’s a “55/45 grant” - meaning that we pay
45% of the cost and the federal government pays 55% of the cost. I think that it’s a pretty
good deal considering that we would have to pay 100% without it. The work is planned for a
three-year period to spread out the replacement schedule so we won’t have to replace them all
again at once. This should help with our sewer fund expenses by lowering the amount that we
are spending on replacing grinder pumps and also the cost of servicing them throughout the
year. So it looks like a win - win situation for the town. It was very good working with Chris
Lee’s office on this project; a big “THANKS!” to our congressman on this important project.
With hard work and smart planning, even though it was a tough economic year, the town did
finish very well.
The town is going to try something new! We are planning to sponsor a Farmers
Market here in town. It will be located in the parking lot next to the old town garage and in
front of the Pendleton Historical Society building. The Business Development Committee is
planning to have it run June through October Thursday afternoons & evenings from 3pm to 8
pm. The Committee will be holding an informational meeting on Monday, April 5 at 7:00 pm
for both potential vendors and the public. I think this will be a nice addition to our town and
prompt a healthy lifestyle by encouraging people to buy locally grown produce.
Thanks for all that mailed their taxes back to the bank! It’s been a great help and
keeps our costs down. Congratulations to Terry Pienta and her staff - Doreen and Rita - who
did a great job with collecting taxes through the Town Clerk’s office for the first time this
year.
We’re still fighting the FEMA flood map issue. Our engineers are working with
FEMA to resolve this important issue. We have had support from our Federal Representatives
and are looking for a good outcome.
Last but not least - if you have not filled out your 2010 Census form please take the
time to do this. It helps out all levels of government (including the Town of Pendleton) to get
our fair share of funding for various programs.
Talk to you soon.
As ever,
Jim
Your Town
Board
Councilmen
Joe Frawley
625-8705
Ed Harmon
731-9743
David Leible
693-4982
Ron Morrison
210-3043
TOWN CLERK
Well the calendar says it’s spring, now if only the weather would cooperate.
I wanted to take a moment to remind everyone to mail in your census forms. They were mailed out about
March 15th. As most of you are aware, the Federal Government uses the final count for the distribution of
billions of dollars back to the states. We want New York to get their fair share. It is my understanding that
census workers will begin knocking on the doors of households that have not mailed in their questionnaires
around May 1st. If you do have someone knocking on your door saying that they are from the Census Bureau,
verify their ID as they will be provided with proper ID. Please be careful, you do not need to let them in your
house.
TRASH COLLECTION HOLIDAY SCHEDULE
FOR APRIL-MAY-JUNE
HOLIDAY
DATE
EFFECT
Memorial Day
Monday, May 31, 2010
Tuesday will be delayed until
Wednesday, June 2nd
Wednesday will be delayed until
Thursday, June 3rd
REMINDER: Any items containing Freon please call 1-800-330-7107 to arrange for pickup.
Terry Pienta
Sping has Sprung, the Grass has riz,
I wonder where the Flowers is.
HIGHWAY DEPARTMENT
Thank God for spring!! It was
another very difficult winter. It
seemed to me that there were more
accidents than usual. There also was
one fatality within our town. Though
not on a road that we take care of, it
still takes a little out of me each time
it happens. I think some of the new
laws will help younger people gain a
little driving experience without some
of the distractions. Although not all
the accidents involved our youth, I
think the majority did. Some of this
winters snows were wet which
compacts to ice very quickly. I wish I
could get everyone to slow down
during tough weather conditions.
Please remind everyone to drive
responsibly at all times – even my
mom says I drive like an old man!
Speaking of my mother, I’m proud to
say that she continues to fight a battle
against cancer and I think she is
winning!!
As always we try to get out
and do some minor repairs from our
plows. Anyone with issues, please
call.
Throughout the winter when
we weren’t out salting or plowing we
continued cleaning roadside ditches
along both north and south sides of
Mapleton between Campbell and
Bear Ridge as well as Townline
between Mapleton and Loveland.
Anyone living near these areas please
call our office if you would like some
of the ‘ditch dirt’.
Although the County started
to reconstruct Townline from Beach
Ridge to the south, it was tough to
see the job shut down for the winter. I
know we received a lot of calls about
the potholes and poor road condition.
We did forward all of your calls to
the County. I expect that as soon as it
is possible, they will get out and
finish the project before summer.
I also anticipate doing some
milling and paving on our jurisdiction
of Townline, which is between
Loveland and Slusaric. I will reevaluate our roads as spring moves
along.
We have some off-road
ditching that we subbed out in 2009
that will carry over to this year. I will
also evaluate a new schedule for our
crew and sub-contractors for more
off-road ditches throughout 2010.
I do not have a schedule yet
for chipping brush but we will try to
get out as much as possible and we
always try to keep the town clean for
all holidays.
As always, if you have any
questions or concerns, I may be
reached at 625-8033 or
[email protected]
Sincerely,
Jeffrey Stowell
Highway Superintendent
ASSESSMENT NEWS
This continuing section of our newsletter shows the Arm's Length sales for the previous quarter. Not included in
Arm's Length sales are construction sales, estate sales, foreclosures and sales between relatives. * Land sizes
under one acre are not listed. Because sales will eventually affect what your home is assessed, it is important for
property owners to see what is sold in town, and the sales prices. Please remember all exemptions are due by
March 1st.
DATE
ADDRESS
SELLER
10/15/09
10/22/09
10/22/09
11/04/09
11/09/09
11/24/09
11/30/09
12/22/09
01/26/10
01/29/10
6181 Townline
4867 Tonawanda Cr
6402 Main
4616 Lockport
5151 Oakwood
5551 Oakwood
7262 Edgewater
4080 Reach Ridge
Marie Ct
6670 Bear Ridge
Micoli
Weitzsacker
Boehnke
Harriger
Miller
Hiller
Flatau
Greenawalt
Donavan
Carrero
SALE
PRICE
283,000
74,500
117,000
64,894
145,000
126,595
303,000
156,700
275,000
175,000
ASSESSED
VALUE
232,000
85,000
115,000
95,000
110,000
110,000
290,000
80,000
274,500
131,000
SQ. FT.
L.A.
2620
904
1680
1640
1664
1054
3050
1740
2868
1120
STYLE
YEAR
BUILT
LAND
*
Colonial
Old
Ranch
Old
Ranch
Ranch
Colonial
Old
Colonial
Ranch
1984
1939
1963
1933
1956
1959
2003
1880
1994
1960
3.0
1.1
1.1
In an effort to keep the Pendleton Town Directory current, the Lions Club would
appreciate it if you would alert them of any changes to your directory listing. You
can submit a change online at www.PendletonLions.org or mail changes to:
Pendleton Lions 6570 Campbell Blvd, Lockport, NY 14094. Changes must be
received by April 15, 2010 to be included in this year’s directory. Thank you!
Just a Few Reminders From Our Water Billing/Collection Department:
All water/sewer payments should be mailed to:
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
Pendleton Town Hall – Water
6570 Campbell Boulevard
Lockport, NY 14094
Remember to include the small portion of the water bill with your payment.
Please do not staple or paperclip your payment.
Billing cycles occur in January, April, July and October.
Water bills are mailed out on the Friday morning of the 3rd FULL week.
If you do not receive a bill by the last day of the billing month please contact the billing department.
For your convenience there is a lockbox located in the foyer at the back entrance to the Town Hall.
Payments placed in the lockbox will be credited to your account on the next business day.
If you pay online please allow 10 business days for mailing.
IF YOU ARE SELLING YOUR HOME PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE 5 BUSINESS DAYS PRIOR TO
CLOSING TO SCHEDULE A FINAL READ AND A MANDATORY WATER/SEWER LINE INSPECTION.
YOU MUST HAVE YOUR WATER & SEWER LINES INSPECTED BEFORE YOU CLOSE ON YOUR
HOUSE!!!
IF YOU ARE PURCHASING A NEW HOME PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE ASAP TO SET UP AN
ACCOUNT.
IF YOU ARE LEAVING THE AREA TEMPORARILY (i.e. Vacation) PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT THE POST
OFFICE WILL NOT FORWARD WATER BILLS, EVEN IF YOU HAVE A FORWARDING REQUEST AT THE
POST OFFICE.
TO AVOID LATE FEES TO YOUR ACCOUNT YOU CAN PRE-PAY YOUR BILL(s), OR HAVE YOUR
BILL SENT TO THE TEMPORARY ADDRESS. PLEASE CONTACT THE BILLING CLERK AT 6258833 ext. 11 TO MAKE THESE ARRANGEMENTS.
BEAR RIDGE CEMETERY
The Bear Ridge Road Cemetery invites you to
consider purchasing a plot for you and your loved ones
today. Located on Bear Ridge Road between Irish Road
and Campbell Boulevard, our quaint cemetery is well
maintained and respectfully cared for. Provide peace of
mind for you and your family by considering you future
resting place today. Plot availability is limited. For
more information call Beverly Spencer at 625-9683.
April prepares her green traffic
light and the world thinks Go.
ANNUAL TOWN-WIDE
GARAGE SALE
The Town of Pendleton is once again
offering the town residents an opportunity to take
part in our town-wide garage sale. The dates will
be Friday, June 4th & Saturday, June 5th, with rain
dates of Friday, June 11th & Saturday, June 12th.
(Both days will have to be rained out for the rain
dates to take effect.)
If you would like to be a part of this townwide garage sale, you can register your address at
the Town Hall by May 21st and the town will
advertise the sale in the newspaper. The town will
also have a list of participants available at the Town
Hall for interested buyers to pick up after May 26th.
So clean out your garages and basements and get
ready for this exciting event!
- Christopher Morley
Awake, thou wintry earth Fling off thy sadness!
Fair vernal flowers, laugh forth
Your ancient gladness!
~Thomas Blackburn, "An Easter Hymn"
To find the universal elements enough;
to find the air and the water exhilarating;
to be refreshed by a morning walk
or an evening saunter;
to be thrilled by the stars at night; to be
elated over a bird’s nest or a wildflower
in spring — these are some of the
rewards of the simple life.
– John Burroughs
The Pendleton Athletic Booster Association
(PABA) will begin accepting registrations for the Fall
2010 season this May. Cheerleading is open to students in grades
2-8, while football is available to youths ages 7-13 as long as they meet
league age and weight requirements.
Registration for returning members will be held in the Starpoint High
School Cafeteria on Thursday, May 13 from 6:30 – 7:00 p.m. and on Saturday,
May 15 from 10:00-11:30 a.m.
New members may register on Thursday, May 20 from 6:30 – 7:00 p.m.
and on Saturday, May 22 from 10:00-11:30 a.m.
Practices will begin on August 2, and games will be played through early
November.
For more information, contact PABA President Jon Faulkner at 434-5182
or visitwww.pabasports.com.
WATER/SEWER DEPARTMENT
The age of our grinder pressure system has us working against the clock. The environment within the tank is
conductive to corrosion and decay. The parts within the tank are literally falling apart. Our town has received some
grant money to rebuild some of our grinder tanks.
In a significant portion of our town each resident has their own individual sewer pumping station. We refer
to these as grinder tanks. At each residence, all water consumed empties into a tank measuring 6 feet deep. These
tanks house a 2 horsepower electric motor designed to grind up and pump the sewer water into the sewer mains at
the roadside. The tanks normally contain 40-50 gallons before the pump is signaled to engage and perform.
At the time our sewer system was initially installed, starting in 1978, all electrical components were located
inside the tank itself. Technology has provided the ability to outfit each residence with an exterior control panel.
This panel contains all the electrical components previously subject to water damage.
The last couple of months we’ve been inspecting all grinder tank units for their overall condition. We are
putting a spreadsheet together to help us evaluate the condition of the tanks, from poorest to best. Of course with this
grant money, we will be updating the ones in the poorest condition first.
Once all inspections and evaluations are completed, we will contact the resident to schedule an appointment.
Each update will take approximately 3-4 hours depending on the length of the trench from the house to the tank. We
will also ask you to not use any water during this time. Hopefully if all goes well we will start scheduling
appointments sometime in May.
The process of ‘updating’ a tank is relatively simple. We begin by removing all internal components, such as
the pump, power center and the on/off mechanism. We then remove the discharge plumbing and the fiberglass tank
is now ‘gutted.’ A trench to the house is necessary for the new electric wire and conduit. The new control panel is
mounted to the outside wall of the house and powered by a 30amp breaker from the resident’s main service. The
tank is then fitted with a waterproof junction box to house the electrical connections for the pump. We then install a
new discharge line with shutoff valve. We then reinstall a pump on a stainless steel stand. We connect the pump
discharge to the new discharge line using an eight-foot long rubber hose with stainless steel ends. The electrical
connections are made and the process is complete. All internal parts are now corrosion resistant and electrical
components are no longer subject to water damage.
With good weather coming, we will pick up where we left off last season with our fire hydrant painting and
numbering. And please, a simple reminder that we all will be experiencing more on road and off-road construction
projects. Please pay attention to all work zone areas, signs, flagmen, etc. and please slow down.
As always, if you have any questions or concerns, I may be reached at 625-8033.
Sincerely,
James Argo
Water/Sewer Superintendent
Storm Water Officer
PENDLETON LIONS CLUB
Pendleton Seniors, Wendelville
seniors and all seniors who may not
belong to these clubs, save April 25th
for our Pendleton Lions annual
Senior’s spaghetti dinner at Good
Shepherd School Gym. Cocktails will
start at 4:00 PM and dinner at 5:00 PM. Look for your
clubs announcement and church bulletin reminders.
Anyone who is considered a senior citizen, please do
come and join us for another wonderful afternoon of food
and fun. See you April 25th.
Our annual seal drive started at Wendelville Fire
Hall on Tuesday, February 9th with many residents and
Lion family members gathering to help us sort and stuff
envelopes for the town wide mailing. We mailed out
2,500. Also, I would like to take this time to remind all
residents about getting in touch with us concerning
address or phone number mistakes in the phone book.
Last year we included inserts reminding all residents that
we do have a web site. This year we left out those inserts;
however we do remind all residents that corrections to the
town directory or new listing to the directory need to be
addressed by contacting us on line at
www.pendletonlions.org. We will be looking for these
corrections to our 2010-2011 printed directories by April
1st, 2010. All changes received after April 1st will be
updated online only.
To those who have donated to the Pendleton Lions
Club seal drive we would like to thank you for your
support, and to those who are still thinking about a
donation there is still time and anything would be greatly
appreciated to help us support all these worthy causes in
the town. Thank you again for your help.
As a reminder to our residents with seniors
attending Starpoint HS, the Lions Club Scholarship for
Starpoint Seniors who reside in Pendleton is again ready
to award 4 (four) $500.00 Scholarships. Seniors
remember to contact your student services office for the
details. Again, with this year's Scholarships, we have also
looked into providing another two of our scholarship
winners the ability of receiving an additional $500.00
Scholarship for the graduating class from the Presidential
Freedom Scholarships program. If you would like to
apply for our scholarship and also to apply for the
Presidential Scholarship, please see your Guidance
officers at the school early in the year. The requirements
for the second $500.00 award are a little more involved
and will require you to attain certain levels of community
service. However, if you qualify that means you could
double your award to $1,000.00. Contact your Student
Services Center early.
As our year winds down let me remind everyone
of our coming events. We continue to hold our Lions
Club meetings at 6:30 PM at Brauer’s on the 2nd and 4th
Tuesday’s of each month of the year. Please join us there
if you are interested in healthy fun. Please feel free to
contact any member of the Pendleton Lions Club for
more information. Also, just a reminder to all our
residents, don’t forget this year’s 34th annual kids fishing
derby to be held on Saturday, June 12th, 2010. This year
we are making arrangements for all families to be able to
obtain a Niagara County Sherriff’s identification card
again through the Safe Child program and have your
child’s vision screened by your Lions Clubs. Come early
and enjoy the fishing and fun. Grandmas and Grandpas
gather up your grandchildren and bring them all along and
let’s make this another great day. We guarantee no rain
on this day. There will be prizes for all kids who sign up
and for those who catch those great big fish again this
year.
Thank you in advance for your support with our
fund drives. If anyone knows of any resident who might
need some assistance, maybe with a wheel chair ramp or
some sight or hearing related need or some other needy
project, please look in the directory and contact any Lion
listed on page 126 with your request. Also remember
please continue to support our directory advertisers.
Thank you again for your continued support and
donations.
Lion Secretary
Joe Biondo
If you have recently moved into Pendleton or wish
to have any information updated in next year’s
Town Directory, please contact the Pendleton
Lions in one of the following ways:
Regular mail: Pendleton Lions Club
Attn: Jay Krull
6570 Campbell Blvd
Lockport, NY 14094
Email:
[email protected]
Or visit www.pendletonlions.org
and fill out a change form on line.
Changes must be received by April 15, 2010 to be
included in this year’s directory.
RECREATION
Seasonal Positions are available for lifeguards, recreation leaders/aides and part time positions (nights &
weekends) for park security. Anyone interested applying should turn in an application to the town hall, no later than
April 16, 2010. Application forms may be picked up at the town hall. Applicants must be 18 years of age or older.
A six-week summer recreation and swim program will run from June 28 thru August 6, 2010. The
program will be held at the Starpoint Central School. There will be no summer recreation or swim on July 5th.
The program runs from 9 am – 3 pm, Monday through Friday. Swimming lessons and a swim program will be held
each day. Boys and girls are assigned to classes based on class size and skill level. The recreation program includes
arts & crafts, playground activities and games (board/card games, and gym games like 4 square, dodge ball, knock
out and basketball). One day a week has been set aside for a field trip. On field trip days, only the swim program
will be held, all other recreational activities are cancelled. Dates scheduled for field trips are July 7th, July 14th, July
21st and July 28th with fire prevention and pizza August 4th. Children 5 years and older may join the swim program.
Registration will be at Pendleton Town Hall on Campbell Blvd. Saturday June 19th from 9 am to noon. There is a
$5.00 non-refundable per child fee, for each field trip they register for. Proof of residency (driver’s license or tax/
utility bill) is required. The program is available to non-residents, who will be charged a registration fee of $150.
Non resident’s participation is limited to the activities located at Starpoint Central School. Non residents may sign a
waiting list for field trips, and will only be allowed if space permits. The $5.00 fee will not be charged at the time
they sign the waiting list, but will be accessed if permitted to attend. Participants may sign up for a single activity
(ex. Summer Recreation, Swimming or Field Trips) or any combination of activities. In order to sign up for any
activity, you MUST FIRST COMPLETE AND TURN IN A REGISTRATION FORM. You may then register
for field trips and/or the swim program.
Registration will be at Pendleton Town Hall on Campbell Blvd. Saturday, June 19th, from 9:00 am to
noon. Registration forms for the Summer Recreation and Swim Programs can be downloaded from the Town
Website at www.pendletonny.us, after May 1st.
If you have any questions, please feel free to call Councilman Ed Harman at 731-9743.
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DAYS OF REMEMBERING
By Ben Sobczyk, Town Historian
So grandma wanted to bake today, some bread, cakes and pie. In her woodburning oven, there was a fire burning. After the fire went out she had to scrape out all the
ashes. Then she had to test the heat; some flour was put in the oven. If it scorched it was
too hot, then she waited awhile and opened the damper. When the oven cooled down the
bread was put in the oven. It would take about three quarters of an hour for the bread to
bake. After the bread was out, the cakes were put in the oven and then the pies.
Her cheese was started by putting a large crock on the warm stove that was filled
with milk. After several days the milk turned into whey. The whey was poured into cloth
bags, and then hung up to drain for a while. Then it was taken out and ready to eat.
The only soap that she had was home made. It was made when grandpa butchered
some pigs. He took the fat trimmings and threw them in a large pot to boil. Then some
lye was added to it. It was very strong soap, took your skin right off too.
The water in her house was in the pantry. A sink was on one side and a small
pump was next to the sink. You would pump up the water from a pipe that was located
down in the cellar where a large place for water was kept, called a cistern. When it rained
the rain would come down the pipes into the cistern.
PENDLETON SENIORS
The seniors are looking forward to warm days,
sunshine and blue skies, the sounds of the birds
singing and the pretty flowers. Also our trips begin.
Our trip directors have been busy planning our spring,
summer and fall trips. In April we will be going to
Niagara Falls to the Casino. Pay $1.00 and receive a
$20.00 gambling voucher and a $5.00 food voucher.
The rest of the trips being planned are:
• May – Rochester - visiting the Artisan Art Works
of all styles, then dinner at Red Oshiers. Cost: $34.00
• June - train ride - on a Thursday
• July - Races at the Finger Lakes Cost: $1.00 - eat
on your own
• August - Cayuga Lake Boat Ride. Lunch on the
boat. Cost - $34.00
• September – Penn Yann Flea Market - on a
Saturday - Cost: $1.00 - eat on your own
• October – Salamanca – This will be our trip to see
the leaves – Cost: $1.00 – eat on your own at the
Casino – trip to the Mall.
All trips and costs are subject to change. In
July we will have our annual picnic; the club will
provide charcoal grilled hotdogs. All members are
asked to bring a dish to pass.
On April 7th we will have our spring party. It
will be a drop off lunch by Wagner’s of Lockport. The
menu is roast beef, ham, red potatoes, chef salad, fresh
fruit and cookies. Cost: $8.00
If you are a resident of Pendleton and 55 years
old we wish you would join us on the 1st and 3rd
Wednesday of the month. Bring a dish to pass and
your own table service. We meet at the Town Hall and
lunch is at noon. After lunch and a brief meeting some
people stay and play cards. Three or four times a year
we play Bingo. If you have any questions call Loraine
at 625-8816.
The year's at the spring
And day's at the morn;
Morning's at seven;
The hillhill-side's dewdew-pearled;
The lark's on the wing;
The snail's on the thorn:
God's in His heaven,
All's right with the world!
- Robert Browning
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WENDELVILLE SENIORS
The Wendelville Seniors are looking forward to
warmer weather and spring flowers. April 12th is our
Spring Party hosted by Jean Haylett, Allen Miller,
Carol Moeller and Mary Jane Sabella. Country Cottage
will cater our dinner. April 13th the Starpoint Senior
Class will host a breakfast for all seniors of the
Starpoint School District at 8:00 AM. This is always a
wonderful breakfast and an opportunity to view a play,
chorus and artistic paintings of the Senior Class. It is
also nice to have the orchestra playing while we eat.
We appreciate their efforts to entertain us. Our trips
started March 23rd to the Sprague Maple Farm, Cutco
Cutlery Visitors Center and the Cuba Cheese Shoppe.
April 27th, the Seneca Niagara Casino Trip is always
popular. More trips will follow when our trip directors,
Richard Wagner, Jane & Elmer Walter get them settled
from the bus company. On April 25th, the Pendleton
Lions Club will host a dinner from the seniors of
Pendleton at the Good Shepherd Hall. This is also very
enjoyable. We had two new members join us in January
- Joan & Don Lanternier. They were given a round of
applause. Our meetings are held on the second
Monday of the month after a “pot luck” luncheon
followed by a short meeting and Bingo. We meet at the
Pendleton Town Hall. If you are 55 years of age or
older and a resident of Pendleton, you are welcome to
join us. Bring a dish to pass and your own table
service. If you have any questions, I can be reached at
625-9106. Please remember our Veterans and Armed
Forces all over the world.
Loraine Gately
President
Niagara County History Center
FREE ESTIMATES
625-8990
www.NiagaraHistory.org
215 Niagara Street
Lockport
Join us for our Spring Tea
“Women of the Whitehouse”
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Annual Drinking Water Quality Report for 2009
Town of Pendleton Water District, 6640 Campbell Boulevard, Public Water Supply ID# NY3100574 March 01, 2010
INTRODUCTION
To comply with State regulations, the Town of Pendleton Water District, will be annually issuing a report describing the quality of your drinking water. The purpose of this report is to raise your understanding of drinking water and
awareness of the need to protect our drinking water sources. Last year, your tap water met all State and Federal drinking water health standards. We are proud to report that our system did not violate a maximum contaminant
level or any other water quality standard. In 2009, we conducted tests for over 100 contaminants. Less than a quarter of the tested contaminants were detected. The NCWD is required to test for lead every three (3) years. In
2008, 53 sites throughout the NCWD were tested for lead. The 90th percentile level of lead detected, 9.1mg/L, was below the regulatory limit of 15.0mg/L; however, lead was found at a level higher than the action level (AL)
recommended by the State at three (3) of 53 sites tested. This report provides an overview of last year’s water quality. Included are details about where your water comes from, what it contains, and how it compares to State
standards.
If you have any questions about this report or concerning your drinking water, please contact James Argo, Water Superintendent at (716) 625-8033. We want you to be informed about your drinking water. If you want to learn
more, please attend any of our regularly scheduled board meetings at the Pendleton Town Hall located at 6570 Campbell Boulevard. The meetings are held on the first Tuesday of the month at 8:00 p.m.
WHERE DOES OUR WATER COME FROM?
In general, the sources of drinking water (both tap water and bottled water) include rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, reservoirs, springs, and wells. As water travels over the surface of the land or through the ground, it dissolves
naturally occurring minerals and, in some cases, radioactive material, and can pick up substances resulting from the presence of animals or from human activities. Contaminants that may be present in source water include:
microbial contaminants; inorganic contaminants; pesticides and herbicides; organic chemical contaminants; and radioactive contaminants. In order to ensure that tap water is safe to drink, the State and the EPA prescribe regulations which limit the amount of certain contaminants in water provided by public water systems. The State Health Department’s and the FDA’s regulations establish limits for contaminants in bottled water which must provide the
same protection for public health.
The Town of Pendleton purchases water from the Niagara County Water District. The Niagara County Water District water intake is located in the west branch of the Niagara River. The water quality is considered excellent.
During 2009, our system did not experience any restriction of our water source. The treatment plant uses pre-chlorination, coagulation, rapid mix, flocculation, sedimentation and filtration processes to ensure the quality of the
water. The NCWD also uses chlorination for disinfection. Active carbon is used to improve the “taste” of water at the raw water pump station on Grand Island. The water treatment plant has been approved as a direct filtration
plant; however, water is treated using conventional filtration including all of the processes described above. In addition, fluoride and a corrosion inhibitor are added to the potable water prior to distribution.
The New York State Department of Health recently completed a draft Source Water Assessment of the supplies raw water source under the States Source Water Assessment Program (SWAP). The purpose of this program is to
compile, organize, and evaluate information regarding possible and actual threats to the quality of public water supply (PWS) sources. It is important to note that source water assessment reports estimate the potential for untreated drinking water sources to be impacted by contamination. These reports do not address the safety or quality of treated finished potable tap water. The Great Lakes’ watershed is exceptionally large and too big for a detailed
evaluation in the SWAP. General drinking water concerns for public water supplies which use these sources include: storm generated turbidity, wastewater, toxic sediments, shipping related spills, and problems associated with
exotic species (e.g. zebra mussels - intake clogging and taste and odor problems). The SWAP is based on the analysis of the contaminant inventory compiled for the drainage area deemed most likely to impact drinking water
quality at this public water supply raw water intake. This assessment found an elevated susceptibility to contamination for this source of drinking water. The amount of agricultural lands in the assessment area results in elevated
potential for protozoa and pesticides contamination. There is also a high density of sanitary wastewater discharges, which results in elevated susceptibility for numerous contaminant categories. Non-sanitary wastewater could also
impact source water quality. There is also noteworthy contamination susceptibility associated with other discrete contaminant sources, and these facility types include: Mines and Resources Conservation and Recovery Act
(RCRA) facilities. If you have any questions about the States Source Water Assessment Program, please contact Ronald Gwozdek, Principal Public Health Engineer, Niagara County Department of Health at (716) 439-7452.
FACTS AND FIGURES
The Town of Pendleton water system serves 6,050 people through 2,355 service connections. Our single highest day recorded in 2009 was 664,200 gallons. The amount of water delivered to customers in 2009 was 170,868,600
gallons. The total water purchased in 2009 was 194,283,430 gallons. (The Town of Pendleton also purchased 7,812,000 gallons of water from neighboring towns with shared water lines.) This leaves an unaccounted for total of
23,443,430 gallons (12.1% of the total amount produced for 2009). This water is used to flush mains, fight fires and leakage. In 2009, water customers were charged approximately $1.50 per 1,000 gallons of water.
ARE THERE CONTAMINANTS IN OUR DRINKING WATER?
As the State regulations require, we routinely test your drinking water for numerous contaminants. These contaminants include: microbiological contaminants, radioactive contaminants, inorganic compounds, nitrate, nitrite, lead
and copper, volatile organic compounds, synthetic organic compounds, trihalomethanes, haloacetic acids, and disinfection by-products. The table presented below depicts only those compounds which were detected in your
drinking water. The State allows us to test for some contaminants less than once per year because the concentrations of these contaminants do not change frequently. Some of our data, though representative, are more than one
year old.
It should be noted that all drinking water, including bottled drinking water, may be reasonably expected to contain at least small amounts of some contaminants. The presence of contaminants does not necessarily indicate that
water poses a health risk. More information about contaminants and potential health effects can be obtained by calling the EPA’s Safe Drinking Water Hotline (800-426-4791) or the Niagara County Health Department at (716)
439-7430.
Table 1: Table of Detected Contaminants
Contaminant
Violation Date of Sample
Yes/No
Inorganic Contaminants
Arsenic
No
3/09
Level Detected
(Avg. / Max.) (Range)
Unit of
Measurement
MCLG
Regulatory Limit
Likely Source of Contamination
0.0008
mg/L
N/A
MCL=0.010
Barium
No
3/09
0.0217
mg/L
2.00
MCL=2.00
Erosion of natural deposits, waste runoff from glass and electronics production or
runoff from orchards
Discharge of drilling wastes and from metal refineries; Erosion of natural deposits.
Copper 1
Fluoride
Lead 1
(in distribution system)
Nitrate
Sodium
Entry Point 2
Turbidity
Entry Point 2
Turbidity
Radioactive Contaminants
Gross Alpha Particles
Radium 226 and 228 combined
Uranium
Disinfection Byproducts
Total Trihalomethanes
Total Haloacetic Acids
No
No
No
1.3
N/A
0
AL=1.3
MCL=2.2
AL=15
Corrosion of galvanized pipes; Erosion of natural deposits.
Erosion of natural deposits; Water additive that promotes strong teeth
Corrosion of household plumbing systems; Erosion of natural deposits.
mg/L
mg/L
NTU
10.0
N/A
N/A
MCL=10.0
AL=20
Corrosion of galvanized pipes; Erosion of natural deposits.
Corrosion of galvanized pipes; Erosion of natural deposits.
Soil runoff
No
1/09 – 12/09
0.1 (0.0018-0.15)
0.60
9.1
(ND – 93)
0.17
16.6
0.026
(0.02– 0.05)
100% of samples less than
0.3 NTU
mg/L
mg/L
mg/L
No
No
No
6/08-9/08
3/09
6/08 9/08
10/08
2/08
1/09 – 12/09
NTU
N/A
TT=95% of samples Soil runoff
< 0.3 NTU
No
No
No
2/08
2/08
2/08
0.07
1.31
<0.51
pCi/L
pCi/L
mg/L
N/A
N/A
N/A
MCL=15
MCL=5
MCL=30
Erosion of natural deposits of certain radioactive minerals
Decay of natural and man-made deposits of certain radioactive minerals.
Erosion of natural deposits
No
No
1/09 – 10/09
1/09 – 10/09
29.6 (15.4 – 52.3)
21.63 (11.1 – 40.6)
µg/l
µg/l
N/A
N/A
MCL=80
MCL=60
By-product of drinking water chlorination
By-product of drinking water chlorination
Table 2: Substances Related to Long Term 2 Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule
Parameter
Period of Sample
Alkalinity*
1/09 – 12/09
Raw Water Total Organic Carbon*
1/09 – 12/09
Filtered Water Total Organic Carbon*
1/09 – 12/09
Filtered Combined UV 254*
1/09 – 12/09
Raw Water SUVA*
1/09 – 12/09
Filtered SUVA*
1/09 – 12/09
Cryptosporidium**
3/06 – 2/08
Giardia**
3/06 – 2/08
Average Level Detected
93.98
2.49
1.95
0.016
1.31
0.81
ND
ND
Unit of Measurement
mg/L
mg/L
mg/L
1/cm
L/mg-m
L/mg-m
oocysts/L
cysts/L
Regulatory Limit
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
TT=99% removal
TT=99% removal
MCLG
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
zero
zero
* The substances presented above are currently not regulated (NR) nor do they have a Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG). The parameters were monitored and average levels presented to provide an indication of general water quality.
** The Long Term 2 Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule (LT2 ESWTR) was promulgated by USEPA on January 4, 2006. The purpose of the rule is to reduce disease incidence associated with Cryptosporidium and other pathogenic microorganisms in drinking water. Systems monitor their source water to determine treatment requirements. This monitoring involves two years of monthly source water sampling for Cryptosporidium, E. coli, and turbidity to assess the relative risk of the
source water and determine additional treatment needs, if any. Source water monitoring is done prior to chemical treatment and any filter backwash recycle return. Filtered water systems will be classified in one of four treatment categories (bins) based
on their monitoring results. Most systems are expected to be classified in the lowest bin (one) and will face no additional requirements.
NCWD initiated monitoring in March of 2006, completed monitoring in February of 2008 and submitted all data as required by this federal regulation. NCWD conducted 24 samples of the source water over the 2-year monitoring period. No Cryptosporidium or Giardia was detected. The determination of bin classification is the next step in this regulatory process. The NCWD must report to the USEPA and this department their bin classification by September 2010. After completing monitoring and
determining their treatment bin, systems generally have three years to comply with any additional treatment requirements if required. Systems must conduct a second round of monitoring six years after completing the initial round to determine if source
water conditions have changed significantly.
1During 2008 the Niagara County Water District collected and analyzed 53 samples for lead and copper. The level presented represents the 90th percentile of the 53 sites tested. A percentile is a value on a scale of 100 that indicates the percent of a
distribution that is equal to or below it. The 90th percentile is equal to or greater than 90% of the lead or copper values detected at your water system. The analysis showed concentrations below action levels for all 53 copper samples. Three (3) of the
53 lead samples exceeded the action level of 15 mg/L. The range of lead levels detected is presented below the 90th percentile value.
2Turbidity is a measure of the cloudiness of the water. We test it because it is a good indicator of the effectiveness of our filtration system. NCWD’s highest single turbidity measurement for the year was 0.05 NTU. State regulations require that turbidity
must always be below 1 NTU leaving the Water Plant and 5 NTU in the distribution system. The regulations require that 95% of the turbidity samples collected have measurements below 0.3 NTU. All samples collected in 2009 were below the treatment
tecnique level.
3Results for Total Trihalomethanes (TTHM’s) and Total Haloacetic Acids (HAA5’s) are reported as the running quarterly annual average. The range of detection is shown below the average.
TOWN OF PENDLETON
Town of Pendleton has not exceeded MCL for total coliform during 2009 reporting period.
Contaminant
Violation Yes/No
Microbiological Contaminants1
Turbidity
No
Turbidity
No
Total Coliform
No
Disinfection Byproducts2
Total Trihalomethanes
No
Total Haloacetic Acids
No
Date of Sample
Level Detected (Maximum)
Unit of Measurement
MCLG
Regulatory Limit (MCL, TT or AL) Likely Source of Contamination
1/09 – 12/09
1/09 – 12/09
2.42 NTU
100%
0 positive samples
NTU
NTU
N/A
N/A
N/A
0
TT= <5NTU
Soil Runoff
TT=95% of samples < 0.3 NTU
MCL= 2 or more positive samples Naturally present in the environment
5/08 – 2/09
5/08 – 2/09
54 (20.04 – 76.81)
21 (13.6 – 21.3)
µg/l
µg/l
N/A
N/A
MCL=80
MCL=60
By-product of drinking water chlorination
By-product of drinking water chlorination
Notes:
Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL): The highest level of a contaminant that is allowed in drinking water. MCLs are set as close to the MCLGs as feasible.
Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG): The level of a contaminant in drinking water below which there is no known or expected risk to health. MCLGs allow for a margin of safety.
Maximum Residual Disinfectant Level (MRDL): The highest level of a disinfectant allowed in drinking water. There is convincing evidence that addition of a disinfectant is necessary for control of microbial contaminants.
Maximum Residual Disinfectant Level Goal (MRDLG): The level of a drinking water disinfectant below which there is no known or expected risk to health. MRDLGs do not reflect the benefits of the use of disinfectants to
control microbial contamination.
Action Level (AL): The concentration of a contaminant which, if exceeded, triggers treatment or other requirements which a water system must follow.
Treatment Technique (TT): A required process intended to reduce the level of a contaminant in drinking water.
Non-Detects (ND): Laboratory analysis indicates that the constituent is not present.
Nephelometric Turbidity Unit (NTU): A measure of the clarity of water. Turbidity in excess of 5 NTU is just noticeable to the average person.
Milligrams per liter (mg/L): Corresponds to one part liquid in one million parts of liquid (parts per million - ppm).
Micrograms per liter (µg/L): Corresponds to one part liquid in one billion parts of liquid (parts per billion - ppb).
Nanograms per liter (ng/L): Corresponds to one part liquid to one trillion parts of liquid (parts per trillion - ppt).
Picograms per liter (pg/L): Corresponds to one part per liquid to one quadrillion parts of liquid (parts per quadrillion – ppq).
Picocuries per liter (pCi/L): A measure of the radioactivity in water.
Million Fibers per Liter (MFL): A measure of the presence of asbestos fibers which are longer than 10 µm.
Filter Combined UV 254: A measure of the amount of ultraviolet light absorbed by molecules in a solution measure at 253.7 nm reported in liters per milligram meter.
Not Regulated (NR): Corresponds to parameters that are not currently regulated as part of the Long Term 2 Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule but were included as indicators of general water quality.
WHAT DOES THIS INFORMATION MEAN?
As you can see by the tables, our system had no violations. We are proud that your drinking water meets or exceeds all federal or state requirements. We have learned through our testing that some contaminants have
been detected; however, most of these contaminants were detected below the level allowed by New York State. It should be noted that the action level for lead was exceeded in three (3) of the 53 samples collected throughout NCWD in 2008. Therefore, we are required to present the following information on lead in drinking water:
If present, elevated levels of lead can cause serious health problems, especially for pregnant women, infants, and young children. It is possible that lead levels at your home may be higher than at other homes in the community as a result of materials used in your home's plumbing. The Niagara County Water District is responsible for providing high quality drinking water, but cannot control the variety of materials used in plumbing components.
When your water has been sitting for several hours, you can minimize the potential for lead exposure by flushing your tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using water for drinking or cooking. If you are concerned about
lead in your water, you may wish to have your water tested. Information on lead in drinking water, testing methods, and steps you can take to minimize exposure is available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline (1-800-4264791) or at http://www.epa.gov/safewater/lead.
IS OUR WATER SYSTEM MEETING OTHER RULES THAT GOVERN OPERATIONS?
During 2009, our system was in compliance with applicable State drinking water operating, monitoring and reporting requirements.
INFORMATION ON CRYPTOSPORIDIUM
Cryptosporidium is a microbial pathogen found in surface water and groundwater under the influence of surface water. Although filtration removes Cryptosporidium, the most commonly-used filtration methods cannot guarantee 100 percent removal. During 2006-2008, as part of LT2 ESWTR monitoring, 24 monthly samples of the raw water at its entry point into the distribution system were collected and analyzed for Cryptosporidium oocysts.
Of these samples, none were positive for Cryptosporidium oocysts. Ingestion of Cryptosporidium may cause cryptosporidiosis, a gastrointestinal infection. Symptoms of infection include nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal
cramps. Most healthy individuals can overcome disease within a few weeks. However, immuno-compromised people are at greater risk of developing life-threatening illness. We encourage immuno-compromised individuals to consult their health care provider regarding appropriate precautions to take to avoid infection. Cryptosporidium must be ingested to cause disease, and it may be spread through means other than drinking water.
INFORMATION ON GIARDIA
Giardia is a microbial pathogen present in varying concentrations in many surface waters and groundwater under the influence of surface water. Giardia is removed/inactivated through a combination of filtration and disinfection or by disinfection. During 2006-2008, as part of LT2 ESWTR monitoring, 24 monthly samples of the raw water at its entry point into the distribution system were collected and analyzed for Giardia cysts. Of these samples, none were positive for Giardia cysts. Ingestion of Giardia may cause giardiasis, an intestinal illness. People exposed to Giardia may experience mild or severe diarrhea, or in some instances no symptoms at all. Fever
is rarely present. Occasionally, some individuals will have chronic diarrhea over several weeks or a month, with significant weight loss. Giardiasis can be treated with anti-parasitic medication. Individuals with weakened
immune systems should consult with their health care providers about what steps would best reduce their risks of becoming infected with Giardiasis. Individuals who think that they may have been exposed to Giardiasis
should contact their health care providers immediately. The Giardia parasite is passed in the feces of an infected person or animal and may contaminate water or food. Person to person transmission may also occur in day
care centers or other settings where hand washing practices are poor.
DO I NEED TO TAKE SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS?
Some people may be more vulnerable to disease causing microorganisms or pathogens in drinking water than the general population. Immuno-compromised persons such as persons with cancer undergoing chemotherapy,
persons who have undergone organ transplants, people with HIV/AIDS or other immune system disorders, some elderly, and infants can be particularly at risk from infections. These people should seek advice from their
health care provider about their drinking water. EPA/CDC guidelines on appropriate means to lessen the risk of infection by Cryptosporidium, Giardia and other microbial pathogens are available from the Safe Drinking
Water Hotline (800-426-4791).
INFORMATION ON FLUORIDE ADDITION
Our system is one of the many drinking water systems in New York State that provides drinking water with a controlled, low level of fluoride for consumer dental health protection. According to the United States Centers for
Disease Control, fluoride is very effective in preventing cavities when present in drinking water at an optimal range from 0.8 to 1.2 mg/l (parts per million). To ensure that the fluoride supplement in your water provides
optimal dental protection, the State Department of Health requires that the Niagara County Water District monitor fluoride levels on a daily basis. During 2009, monitoring showed fluoride levels in your water were in the
optimal range 99% of the time. None of the monitoring results showed fluoride at levels that approach the 2.2 mg/l MCL for fluoride.
WHY SAVE WATER AND HOW TO AVOID WASTING IT?
Although our system has an adequate amount of water to meet present and future demands, there are a number of reasons why it is important to conserve water:
• Saving water saves energy and some of the costs associated with both of these necessities of life;
• Saving water reduces the cost of energy required to pump water and the need to construct costly new wells, pumping systems and water towers; and
• Saving water lessens the strain on the water system during a dry spell or drought, helping to avoid severe water use restrictions so that essential fire fighting needs are met.
You can play a role in conserving water by becoming conscious of the amount of water your household is using, and by looking for ways to use less whenever you can. It is not hard to conserve water. Conservation tips
include:
• Automatic dishwashers use 15 gallons for every cycle, regardless of how many dishes are loaded. So get a run for your money and load it to capacity.
• Turn off the tap when brushing your teeth.
• Check every faucet in your home for leaks. Just a slow drip can waste 15 to 20 gallons a day. Fix it and you can save almost 6,000 gallons per year.
• Check your toilets for leaks by putting a few drops of food coloring in the tank, watch for a few minutes to see if the color shows up in the bowl. It is not uncommon to lose up to 100 gallons a day from one of these
otherwise invisible toilet leaks. Fix it and you save more than 30,000 gallons a year.
CLOSING
Thank you for allowing us to continue to provide your family with quality drinking water this year. We ask that all our customers help us protect our water sources, which are the heart of our community. Please call our office
if you have questions.
1Turbidity
is a measure of the cloudiness of the water. We test it because it is a good indicator of the effectiveness of our filtration system. State regulations require that average monthly turbidity must always be below 1
NTU leaving the Water Plant and 5 NTU in the distribution system. The regulations require that 95% of the turbidity samples collected have measurements below 0.3 NTU. All samples collected in 2009 were below the
treatment technique level.
2Results for Total Trihalomethanes (TTHM’s) and Total Haloacetic Acids (HAA5’s) are reported as the highest average. The range of detection is shown below the average.