Old North Utilities Services/Ft. Bragg

We're pleased to present our annual municipal water quality report. As in previous years, our company remains committed to delivering the highest-quality water possible to our customers. We continue to address challenges related to new regulations, source water protection, conservation initiatives, and community education while meeting the needs of all our water users.

Thank you for allowing us to serve you. We encourage you to share your thoughts about the information contained in this report. Well-informed customers are our greatest allies in maintaining water quality. For more information about this report or questions about your municipal water, please contact Meaghan Until, Environmental Coordinator of Old North Utility Services, Inc., at (910) 495-1311 Ext. 102.

Lead in Home Plumbing
If present, elevated lead levels can cause serious health problems, especially for pregnant women and young children. Lead in water primarily comes from materials and components associated with service lines and home plumbing. While we provide high-quality municipal water, we cannot control the materials used in household plumbing components. When your water has been sitting for several hours, you can minimize lead exposure by flushing your tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using water for drinking or cooking. If concerned about lead in your water, consider having it tested. Information about lead in water, testing methods, and exposure reduction steps is available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline or at www.epa.gov/lead.

Important Health Information
Some individuals may be more vulnerable to contaminants in municipal water than the general population. Immunocompromised persons, including those undergoing cancer treatment, organ transplant recipients, people with HIV/AIDS or other immune disorders, some elderly individuals, and infants may face increased infection risks. These individuals should seek advice about municipal water from their healthcare providers. EPA/CDC guidelines on appropriate measures to reduce infection risk from Cryptosporidium and other microbial contaminants are available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline at (800) 426-4791.

Water Source Information
Fort Bragg customers benefit from two abundant water sources: the Harnett County Water Treatment Plant, which processes water from the Cape Fear River, and Fayetteville Public Works Commission (PWC) Water Treatment Plant, which treats water from both the Cape Fear River and Lake Glenville. Both treatment facilities are located within the Cape Fear River Basin.

GenX and Water Safety
We understand concerns about GenX in regional water supplies. Rest assured that our water meets all current EPA standards for safe municipal water. The GenX found in the Cape Fear River is downstream from the PWC/Fayetteville service area and has not affected our municipal water. Recent tests by the NC Department of Environmental Quality confirm GenX is not present in Fayetteville PWC water, with results available at https://deq.NC.gov/news/hot-topics/gene-investigation.

Are there watering restrictions in effect?

Yes, water regulations are currently active. Due to the new Water Management Act Withdrawal Permit, the Town of Pembroke Water Division has implemented a "MODIFIED MANDATORY" Outdoor Water Use Restriction effective immediately. Only hand-held hoses are permitted at this time. Even-numbered properties may water on Tuesdays, while odd-numbered properties may water on Thursdays. Approved watering times are before 9:00 a.m. and after 5:00 p.m. until further notice.

If you're installing a NEW LAWN, please contact the DPW Office at 781-293-5620 to request a waiver. The DPW Commissioners appreciate your full cooperation.

Why is my water discolored?

When water flows rapidly through pipes, sediment can be disturbed and enter the water stream. This commonly occurs during hydrant flushing or during summer months when system usage peaks. If your water appears discolored, run an outside spigot for several minutes until the water runs clear. You can also slowly run cold water in your kitchen sink. If problems persist, please contact the water department at (781) 709-1425.

What happens when buying or selling a home?

Sellers: You or your real estate agent should request a final water reading, which must be paid prior to closing. If you don't have an agent, consult with the closing attorney.

New owners: All outstanding utility bills remain with the property. If no final reading was ordered, you'll be responsible for any outstanding balances, including interest, penalties, and potential liens. New owners must notify the Water Division of ownership changes and provide the correct mailing address.

Why is there a late fee on my bill?

Water bills must be paid in full by the due date. Late payments incur a $10 late fee plus interest. Please note: When submitting payment on a current bill, any arrears will be deducted from your payment first. Please ensure you pay the total amount due to avoid additional late fees and interest charges.

What does a red door hanger mean?

Our meter team uses door tags to notify homeowners of needed repairs. Homeowners must schedule an appointment for the work to be completed. If repairs aren't scheduled, your bill will be estimated progressively higher and won't qualify for abatement.

Why is my neighbor's bill lower than mine?

Your neighbor likely used less water than you did. We don't bill based on household size, car washing frequency, or laundry loads, but rather on the amount of water that flows through and registers on your meter.

How often do you bill?

Currently, we bill twice yearly. Each bill reflects actual usage between read dates, plus the basic fee of $15.00.

Do you add fluoride to the water?

Yes, the Town does fluoridate the water supply.