Commissioner, scientists to talk about water issues and concerns
Staff reports

NEW RIVER – Arizona Corporation Commissioner Kris Mayes on Oct. 10 is scheduled to discuss the possible ramifications of municipalities taking over private water companies.

In addition, two scientific experts from the state health department are expected to give an update on ground water contamination in the Desert Foothills.

When the town of Cave Creek recently purchased the troubled Desert Hills Water Company for $2.5 million, the purchase came as the commission was investigating DHW to see if it had violated any state utility regulations. Hundreds of DHW customers for several months had been suffering outages and spotty service. Their complaints triggered the state investigation.

Mayes will talk about the commission’s role as it relates to regulating public water delivery systems, according to a news release from the New River/ Desert Foothills Community Association. One of the topics will focus on how Cave Creek’s decision could affect water customers residing outside of the municipalities’ boundaries, regulation of rates, quality of service, and maintenance issues.

In addition, two scientists form the Arizona Department of Health Services are expected to give an update on the state’s investigation into area ground water contamination, specifically arsenic.

Federal environmental regulators recently lowered the acceptable level of arsenic, linked to cancer and diabetes, in public drinking water. Private well owners are strongly encouraged to have their water tested for arsenic and to explore appropriate treatment options. 

The presentation is scheduled to begin at 7:30 p.m. and will be held at Crossroads Christian Fellowship, 42425 N. New River Rd.,  New River. The free event is open to the public and hosted by the New River/Desert Foothills Community Association. For more information about the talk, call (623)742‑0150 or (623) 587‑7039.