City of Ottawa

This document provides a snapshot of Ottawa's water quality from the previous year. It contains essential information about your water source, composition, and how it compares to EPA and state standards. We believe informed customers are our greatest allies in maintaining high-quality water.

The Ottawa City Commission, which oversees the Water Department, holds meetings on the first Wednesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. and the third Wednesday at 9:30 a.m. in the Commission Chambers of City Hall. These meetings offer an opportunity for public input on water system operations. For additional information, please contact Scott Snethen, Water Plant Superintendent, at 785-229-3690.

Our primary water source is the Marais des Cygnes River within the Marais des Cygnes River Basin, which includes Pomona and Melvern Reservoirs. Ottawa participates in the Marais des Cygnes River Assurance District to ensure adequate supply during drought conditions. As an additional safeguard, we maintain two holding ponds with a combined capacity of 35 million gallons, which can be utilized during high runoff periods or if the river becomes temporarily contaminated.

Certain populations may be more vulnerable to water contaminants, including those undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, people with HIV/AIDS or immune disorders, some elderly individuals, and infants. These individuals should seek advice from healthcare providers. EPA/CDC guidelines on reducing infection risk from Cryptosporidium and other microbial contaminants are available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline (800-426-4791).

All water sources, including bottled water, naturally contain some contaminants. Their presence doesn't necessarily indicate a health risk. For more information about contaminants and potential health effects, call the EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline (800-426-4791).

Water sources (tap and bottled) include rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, reservoirs, springs, and wells. As water travels over land or underground, it dissolves natural minerals, potentially radioactive materials, and substances from animal or human activity. Potential contaminants include:

• Microbial contaminants from sewage treatment plants, septic systems, livestock operations, and wildlife
• Inorganic contaminants like salts and metals, occurring naturally or from urban runoff, wastewater discharges, oil/gas production, mining, or farming
• Pesticides and herbicides from various sources including agriculture and residential use
• Organic chemical contaminants, byproducts of industrial processes and petroleum production
• Radioactive contaminants, either naturally occurring or from mining activities

The EPA regulates contaminant levels in public water systems to ensure safe drinking water. The FDA establishes similar limits for bottled water. Our water system tests at least 10 samples monthly for microbiological contaminants following the Total Coliform Rule. While coliform bacteria are typically harmless, their presence may indicate disease-causing bacteria. Special follow-up tests determine if harmful bacteria exist when coliform is detected.

The most recent water quality data shows all detected contaminants remain within acceptable limits. Though some data may be more than a year old, contaminant concentrations typically don't vary significantly year to year. Rest assured, the water provided to you is safe for consumption.

Municipal Water Services FAQs

1. Do I need a permit for any type of building construction?
2. Do I need a permit to install a new fence?
3. Do I need a permit to update a fence?
4. Do I need a permit to paint?
5. Can a homeowner/building owner pull their own permit?
6. How long is a permit valid for?
7. How much does a building permit cost?
8. What happens if I don't get a permit for work requiring one?
9. What codes are followed by the City?
10. Are the Florida Building Code and Florida Fire Prevention Code available online?
11. Has the City adopted any technical amendments to the Building/Fire Prevention Codes?
12. How long does plan review take?
13. Can I start work before my plan is reviewed?
14. Can homeowners submit hand-drawn plans for residential projects?
15. Is an architect or engineer required?
16. Do I need HOA or Condo Association approval with my permit application?
17. What is the minimum wind speed design requirement?
18. Are wind-borne debris provisions applicable?
19. What do contractors need to do to obtain a permit?
20. Who do I contact for inspections?
21. Can I apply for permits online?
22. What should I know when hiring a contractor?
23. How do I file a complaint against a contractor?
24. Does the City have a property maintenance code or process for landlord-tenant disputes?

Additional topics include City Clerk services, Code Enforcement regulations, Cranes Roost Park information, and Public Works details covering irrigation, lakes, sewer systems, solid waste management, stormwater, streets and sidewalks, and water distribution.