On October 9, 2024, the Sweetwater Authority (Authority) Governing Board (Board) approved construction contracts for the National City Wells Iron and Manganese Removal System Project. The project will improve the Authority's water treatment system, ensuring continued delivery of safe, high-quality drinking water to the community.
The Authority’s water resources include access to high-quality, drought-proof groundwater sources. However, the freshwater wells in National City contain naturally-occurring concentrations of iron and manganese, which can accumulate over time and cause water discoloration. While water from these wells already meets all safety standards, the new Iron and Manganese Removal System will prevent discoloration and improve the water’s appearance, reinforcing customer trust in the water’s safety and quality.
Funding for this project is included in the Authority’s 2024-25 Capital Investment Project budget. Nearly one million dollars of the project costs will be offset by a federal grant that was secured with the help of Congressman Juan Vargas.
“This project is a prime example of how we put our ratepayer’s money to work and invest it in projects that improve our service to them,” said Board Chair Paulina Martinez-Perez. “We are dedicated to making continual improvements to our water system while keeping our rates among the lowest in the region.”
A family of three using 70 gallons of water per person per day pays on average $67 per month for their water service. These rates are then reinvested to maintain, operate and upgrade the Authority’s water system. The Authority is funded entirely by water rates and fees for new water service, and receives no revenue from property taxes.