PFAS, The Forever Chemicals
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of man-made chemicals applied to many consumer products we all use to make them waterproof, stain resistant or nonstick. They are used in products like cosmetics, fast food packaging and a type of fire fighting foam. These compounds have been labeled "forever chemicals" because they do not readily break down and are now being detected in the environment throughout the world, including water.

The Environmental Protection Agency classifies PFAS as "contaminants of emerging concern", meaning that research into the potential harm they may cause to human health and what regulatory levels in drinking water should be established are ongoing. The Ohio EPA tested Westerville's drinking water in 2020 for the six most commonly studied PFAS and none were detected. Westerville utilizes a relatively unique granular activated carbon filtration process in our water treatment plant, which is considered by the EPA as one of the best available technologies, to address any potential PFAS contamination.

Publication: Drinking Water Source Protection Plan
Click the link to read the report on Westerville's source water protection plan.

Water Treatment Plant Improvements
A major capacity or quality improvement has been made to the Westerville Water Treatment Plant every decade since 1970 to keep pace with regulations, meet the community’s growth and to best serve its residents and businesses.
 
The most recent improvements to the treatment process were completed in 2016. This three-year, $13.5 million project added a second filtration process to the existing treatment regimen and replaced the treatment chemical feed systems. The improvements were in compliance with two new EPA drinking water regulations and helped to maintain and improve the water service that Westerville customers have come to expect and enjoy.

All of Westerville’s drinking water now passes through granular activated carbon (GAC) filters. The GAC filtration process is similar to many home charcoal filtration devices. Improvements to the treatment chemical systems included switching our disinfectant from chlorine gas to a much safer liquid bleach product.

“We are proud to deliver a high-quality drinking water to our customers,” said Richard Lorenz, Water Utility Manager. “A safe, reliable water supply is essential for the health and welfare of our community.”

The improvements to our water supply were financed by a low-interest loan from the Ohio EPA and a revised water rate structure. Water rates to support this project along with ongoing operation and maintenance are scheduled to increase about 2% per year over the next several years.

“Water Division customers currently enjoy the lowest rates among local central Ohio communities and we will continue to have competitive rates even with the projected rates,” Lorenz said.

For more information on water quality, treatment or to schedule a tour please contact us during business hours at (614) 901-6770.