Niles City PWS Water Company

The City of Niles has prepared this comprehensive report detailing water quality from Meander Reservoir. This documentation is mandated by the Safe Drinking Water Act. For specific water quality information, residents can contact Meander Water (MVSD) at 330-652-3614. For inquiries about distribution service, pressure concerns, lead & copper testing, or discolored water issues, please contact Andy Catanzarite at 330-544-9010.

The City of Niles currently maintains an unconditional permit to operate a public water system under ID 7802403. Meander Water treats approximately 24 million gallons daily of raw water from Meander Creek Reservoir, distributing it to Youngstown, Niles, and McDonald. These municipalities then supply water to residents and surrounding communities.

Treatment processes include chemical addition for softening, disinfection, fluoridation, taste and odor control, mixing, settling, filtration, and pumping. Niles distributes roughly 6 million gallons daily through 90 miles of pipeline to residents and sells water to Girard, Lordstown, Mineral Ridge, and portions of Howland and Weathersfield Townships.

Public participation regarding water decisions is welcomed at regular council meetings scheduled on the first and third Wednesday monthly at 6:00 PM in Niles Municipal Court on the second floor of the safety complex at 15 E. State St.

Certain populations may be more vulnerable to water contaminants, including those undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, individuals with HIV/AIDS or immune disorders, some elderly residents, and infants. These individuals should consult their physicians about drinking water safety. EPA/CDC guidelines for reducing infection risks from cryptosporidium and other microbial contaminants are available through the Safe Water Hotline (1-800-426-4791).

Regarding lead concerns, Niles regularly tests 30 sites, with the most recent testing in 2014 showing lead concentration at the 90th percentile well below the USEPA action level of 15 micrograms per liter. The sample contained just 3 micrograms per liter. Elevated lead levels can cause serious health problems, particularly for pregnant women and young children. Flushing taps for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using water for consumption can reduce potential lead exposure. Information about lead testing is available at www.epa.gov/safewater/lead.

Source water may contain various contaminants including:

• Microbial Contaminants: viruses and bacteria from sewage treatment facilities, septic systems, agricultural operations, and wildlife
• Inorganic Contaminants: naturally occurring or human-activity derived salts and metals
• Pesticides & Herbicides: from agricultural runoff and residential usage
• Organic Chemical Contaminants: industrial byproducts and petroleum derivatives
• Radioactive Contaminants: natural or resulting from resource extraction activities

1. Where does Niles City PWS water come from?
   Niles City PWS supplies purchased surface water to Niles, Ohio.
2. Does Niles City PWS test its tap water?
   Yes. Like every public water system, Niles City PWS must test its water under the federal Safe Drinking Water Act and publish an annual water quality report (Consumer Confidence Report). Ask the utility for the latest report or look for it on its website.
3. How do I contact Niles City PWS?
   Call 330-544-9000 or visit 34 West State Street, Niles, OH 44446, or use the contact options on the utility’s website.
4. Does Niles City PWS water contain lead?
   Water usually leaves the treatment plant without lead. Lead can enter tap water from older service lines, solder and brass fixtures inside homes, especially when water sits in the pipes. Run the tap before drinking if water has been sitting, and ask the utility about lead testing and service line records.
5. Is Niles City PWS water hard?
   Hardness depends on the source and changes over time. The annual water quality report lists hardness, or you can test it at home. If it is above about 7 grains per gallon, a water softener sized to your measured hardness will stop scale and spotting.