Demorest

Certain populations may have heightened vulnerability to contaminants in municipal water compared to the general public. Individuals with compromised immune systems—including cancer patients undergoing treatment, organ transplant recipients, people with HIV/AIDS, elderly residents, and infants—may face increased health risks from waterborne infections. These individuals should consult healthcare providers about their water consumption habits.

The EPA and CDC provide guidelines on reducing infection risks from Cryptosporidium and other microbial contaminants through their Safe Water Drinking Hotline (800-426-4791).

Where does Demorest water come from?
Water sources (both tap and bottled) include rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, reservoirs, springs, and wells. As water travels across land or underground, it dissolves naturally-occurring minerals and sometimes radioactive materials, potentially picking up substances from animal or human activities.

Demorest operates as a purchased water system (PWS), providing water to residents within city limits and certain Habersham County residents. Our Georgia Water System ID is 1370004. Our primary source is the Baldwin water treatment plant, a surface water facility located at 288 Coldwater Dr off Highway 105 North, which draws from the Chattahoochee River. Demorest supplements this supply with two permitted wells located at 571 Mize Rd and 415 Crystal Way in Enota, GA.

Why are contaminants present in municipal water?
All water, including bottled varieties, typically contains at least trace amounts of some contaminants. Their presence doesn't necessarily indicate health risks. For more information about contaminants and potential health effects, contact the EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline (800-426-4791).

Common contaminant sources include:

• Microbial contaminants from sewage facilities, septic systems, agricultural operations, and wildlife
• Inorganic contaminants like salts and metals from natural sources, urban runoff, industrial discharge, or agricultural practices
• Pesticides and herbicides from agriculture, urban runoff, and residential use
• Organic chemical contaminants from industrial processes, petroleum production, gas stations, and waste systems
• Radioactive contaminants occurring naturally or resulting from energy production activities

The EPA establishes regulations limiting contaminant levels in public water systems, while FDA regulations set similar standards for bottled water to ensure public safety.

FAQs About Starting Businesses in Stillwater

1. I want to open a business in Stillwater. What initial steps should I take? That's fantastic! The following questions should help you begin your journey.
2. What funding resources should I consider for my new business?
   • Commercial Loans: Lenders evaluate business plans, equity contributions, management capability, repayment potential, credit history, and collateral.
   • Micro-loans: Visit the U.S. Small Business Administration website for loan information.
   • Venture Capital: Investors often require some management control and ownership stake. Learn more on the SBA website.
   • Agricultural Resources: See the USDA Guide to financing your business (PDF).
   • Crowdfunding: Platforms like Kickstarter can help launch your business.
3. Does the City determine which franchises can operate within city limits? No, the City welcomes all business types as they generate tax revenue, create jobs, and provide services. Businesses decide independently if Stillwater's demographics and consumer interests align with their business model.
4. Do I need a business permit or registration with the City? Stillwater doesn't require general business registration, though specific industries need annual licenses from the City Clerk's Office (alcohol vendors, bus services, peddlers, mobile food services, pawnbrokers, taxis, etc.).
5. Where should I register my business if not with Stillwater? All Oklahoma businesses must register with the Oklahoma Tax Commission through their Online Business Registration and with the Oklahoma Secretary of State's Entity Filing system.
6. How do I verify property zoning or permitted business types? Consult Stillwater's Zoning Map on the City website. Allowable uses are detailed in City Code, Chapter 23, Article VI. Contact Development Services at 405.742.8220 for assistance.
7. Can I operate a business from my home? Yes. Stillwater classifies this as a "home occupation." Requirements are outlined in City Code, Chapter 23, Article V, Division 2, Section 23-97.
8. Why do I need permits for building renovations? Building permits ensure safety standards are met and that qualified professionals perform the work, whether for new construction or remodeling.
9. Why does Development Services provide tax information with building permits? Per Oklahoma statute (11 OS § 43-101), Development Services must provide a list of potential state taxes applicable to Oklahoma and out-of-state taxpayers, including ad valorem, excise, employment, franchise, and sales taxes.
10. How do I obtain and use Proof of Registration and Occupancy Permits? The Tax Commission requires registration proof when requesting an occupancy permit. The City issues occupancy certificates upon work completion or when a building's use changes.