Live Oak WTP

This report contains important information about your municipal water quality. Please read this document or contact someone who can translate it for you.

Our water comes from wells drawing from the Floridan Aquifer. The City of Live Oak maintains these wells, plus two additional wells at the Suwannee Correctional Institution that serve as a backup emergency supply. All water is treated with sodium hypochlorite for disinfection and fluoride for dental health.

In 2016, the Department of Environmental Protection conducted a Source Water Assessment of our system. They identified three potential contamination sources with low susceptibility levels near our wells. You can view assessment results at www.dep.state.fl.us/swapp.

We encourage residents to learn about their water utility. For public involvement opportunities, contact Luis E. Los at 407-222-1100. You can also attend monthly City Council meetings - call 386.362.2276 or visit www.cityofliveoak.org for schedules.

The Live Oak Water System regularly monitors contaminants according to Federal and State regulations. This report covers January 1 to December 31, 2016, though some data may be from earlier testing periods as permitted by regulations.

Key terms in our water quality reports include:

• Action Level (AL): Contaminant concentration that triggers treatment requirements
• Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL): Highest permitted contaminant level in municipal water
• Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG): Safety target level below health risk concerns
• Maximum Residual Disinfectant Level (MRDL): Highest permitted disinfectant level

1. How do I register for the online utility billing portal? You can sign up through the Cumberland Utility Billing Portal registration system.
2. How often will I receive my bill? Bills are issued monthly, typically arriving at the same time each month. Your meter is read shortly before billing. Contact the Tax Utility Office at 301-759-6409 if you don't receive your bill.
3. What determines my water and sewer rates? Rates are calculated based on your meter size with a ready-to-serve charge for the first 100 cubic feet (approximately 750 gallons) registered by your meter. Call 301-759-6409 for details.
4. Why is my bill unusually high? The most common cause is a leak, particularly from toilets. These leaks can waste significant water silently. Test by adding food coloring to your toilet tank - if color appears in the bowl, you have a leak requiring immediate repair. To check for any leaks, turn off all faucets and check your water meter's triangular indicator - movement indicates a leak. Call 301-759-6409 for assistance.
5. What regulations govern utility operations? The Tax Utility Office and Water/Sewer Departments operate under city ordinances approved by the Mayor and City Council. These regulations establish service rates and various fees for connections and collections. Call 301-759-6409 for more information.
6. What should I do when moving? Contact 301-759-6409 as soon as you know your move date to close your account. Landlords must either receive bills directly or complete a landlord-tenant form for tenant billing. Note that according to city ordinances, landlords remain ultimately responsible for unpaid balances.
7. What if I can't pay my utility bill? Bills are due within 21 days, with penalties applied after the due date. The next bill will show any unpaid amount as "Past Due" and warn that service may be terminated if not paid by the next due date. Water service can be disconnected when an account is 51 days past due. If you anticipate payment difficulties, contact the Tax Utility Office at 301-759-6409 to discuss possible arrangements.