City of Minot

MCL (Maximum Contaminant Level): The highest permissible level of a substance allowed in public water systems. If exceeded, water treatment facilities must take corrective action.

MCLG (Maximum Contaminant Level Goal): The level below which no known health risks exist. These goals represent ideal safety targets.

mg/L (milligram per liter): Equivalent to parts per million - approximately one drop in 10 gallons of water.

MRDLG (Maximum Residual Disinfectant Level Goal): The disinfectant level below which no health risks are anticipated. These goals don't factor in benefits of disinfection.

MRDL (Maximum Residual Disinfectant Level): The highest acceptable disinfectant level, based on evidence that proper disinfection is essential for controlling microbes.

ND (Not Detected): Indicates the substance wasn't found at detectable levels during testing.

NTU (Nephelometric Turbidity Units): Measures water clarity by analyzing suspended particles.

pCi/l (picocuries per liter): A measurement of radioactivity in water.

ppm (parts per million): Approximately equal to one drop in 10 gallons or one minute in two years.

ppb (parts per billion): Approximately equal to one drop in 10,000 gallons or one minute in 2,000 years.

TT (Treatment Technique): Required processes implemented to reduce contaminant levels in municipal water.

1. Where can I find copies of real property documents?
   Answer: The Niagara County Clerk's office maintains official deeds showing property ownership in Niagara County and records mortgages. After processing, original documents are returned to attorneys or individuals. You can obtain certified copies at the Clerk's office in the Niagara County Courthouse (175 Hawley Street, Lockport, NY) or call 716-439-7022. Note that surveys and title abstracts are not filed with the Clerk's office.
2. How can I obtain vital records (marriage, birth or death certificates)?
   Answer: Vital records are kept by the local municipality where the event occurred. For example, if you purchase a marriage license in Lockport but marry in Niagara Falls, you would request the marriage certificate from Lockport City Clerk where it was originally issued. For birth certificates, contact the registrar in the municipality where the hospital is located.
3. Where is the Courthouse and how do I get there?
   Answer: For directions, visit the county properties page on our website and select the "Map" of your destination building.
4. How can I get a copy of the Niagara County Emergency Management Plan?
   Answer: Hard copies are available at local libraries or the Emergency Management Office (5526 Niagara Street Ext, Lockport, NY 14095). An online version is also accessible via the County Emergency Management Plan link.
5. What identification do I need to enter Canada and return to the US?
   Answer: Since June 1, 2009, US citizens entering the United States at sea or land ports must present documents compliant with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI). Accepted documents include US Passports, passport cards, trusted traveler cards (NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST), or enhanced driver's licenses. Visit the Homeland Security website for complete details.
6. What are the requirements for veterans' or widows' pensions?
   Answer: Veterans must meet specific service period requirements, discharge conditions, and be classified as 100% disabled due to non-service-related conditions. The medical requirement is waived for veterans aged 65 or older. Income limits apply and are adjusted annually in line with social security increases.
7. How tall are Niagara Falls?
   Answer: The American Falls stand 184 feet tall and span 1060 feet wide, carrying approximately 10% of the Niagara River's flow. The Horseshoe Falls measure 176 feet in height and 2200 feet in width, with roughly 90% of the river flowing over them.
8. What hours are the Falls open for viewing?
   Answer: Niagara Falls can be viewed 24 hours daily, year-round, from Prospect Point in Niagara Falls State Park. Summer features fireworks displays on Fridays and Sundays, and the Falls are illuminated every night throughout the year.