press release

August 24, 2001

WATER TO HAVE NEW SOURCE, TREATMENT

Residents of Chula Vista, National City and Bonita may find their water tastes or smells "like a swimming pool" for the next few weeks, as a result of a temporary change in the water treatment at Sweetwater Authority's Robert A. Perdue and Richard A. Reynolds Water Treatment plants. Sweetwater Authority has also begun blending its reservoir water with imported water to improve its taste.

Sweetwater Authority changed disinfectants from chloramines to free chlorine on August 21, 2001 and will continue using the free chlorine for approximately six weeks. The Authority has implemented this change to control nitrification and ensure optimum disinfection in its distribution system.

The Authority has also begun adding imported water from the aqueduct to reduce the taste and odor of water drawn from Sweetwater Reservoir. Due to the low level of the lake, water drawn from the reservoir has low oxygen levels and may smell and taste musty. Although the water meets all health and safety standards, Sweetwater Authority wished to reduce this impact for its customers, said General Manager .

Customers may improve the taste of their drinking water by refrigeration. Customers should always call Sweetwater Authority, at (619) 475-5217, if they are concerned about the quality of their water, or if there is a taste or smell other than those of chlorine or "mustiness."

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