Southwest/Polk County Utility

The Babson Park Public Water System (PWS) serves a section of Polk County's Southeast Regional Power Service Area. Last year, customers connected to this system consumed approximately 66.09 million gallons of water. Our supply comes from two groundwater wells tapping into the Floridan Aquifer – one of America's purest natural water sources.

This underground reservoir is primarily replenished by rainfall, which undergoes natural filtration through layers of rock and sand. The water is treated at two facilities using cascade aeration to remove dissolved gases, chlorine disinfection, and carbon filtration to minimize disinfection byproducts.

In 2017, Florida's Department of Environmental Protection conducted a Source Water Assessment on our system, identifying 4 potential contamination sources with moderate susceptibility levels. You can access assessment results at www.dep.state.fl.us/swap or request them from Polk County Utilities.

Water Quality Metrics:

• Hardness: Typically around 37.5 ppm (2 grains per gallon), well below the 120 ppm threshold for "hard water"
• Alkalinity: Approximately 72 ppm, within the moderate range (60-120 ppm)
• pH: Typically around 8.1, maintaining optimal balance

We operate under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA), following EPA standards adopted by Florida's DEP. Polk County Utilities works closely with regulatory agencies to ensure compliance and conducts regular testing for contaminants according to mandated schedules.

If elevated lead levels are detected, they typically stem from household plumbing materials rather than source water. Residents concerned about lead exposure can reduce risk by running taps for 30 seconds to 2 minutes after water has been sitting.

Source water can contain various contaminants, including:

• Microbial contaminants from sewage systems, agriculture, or wildlife
• Inorganic contaminants like salts and metals from natural sources or urban runoff
• Pesticides from agriculture, urban runoff, or residential use
• Organic chemical contaminants from industrial processes or petroleum production
• Radioactive contaminants occurring naturally or from oil/gas production

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What area does S.B.C.U.D serve?
   S.B.C.U.D. covers approximately 150 square miles with 500 miles of water line and manages five decentralized wastewater facilities. We draw water from Upper Tellico Lake, providing service to over 15,100 customers through advanced microfiltration processes that produce 2.5-5 million gallons daily.
2. How do I establish service?
   To set up new service, visit our office at 808 W. Lamar Alexander Parkway, Maryville, TN with identification and proof of ownership (for property owners).
3. What are the connection fees?
   Homeowners pay a non-refundable $30 connection fee when opening an account. Renters pay a non-refundable $100 connection fee. Additional fees may apply depending on circumstances.
4. What are your tap fees?
   ¾" tap: $1,500
   1" tap: $2,500
   2" tap: $5,000
   Wastewater tap: $1,500
5. What about sprinkler system fees?
   Fire Line Tap Fee: $1,500 (must be paid before construction)
   Buildings under 10,000 square feet: minimum monthly bill
   Buildings over 10,000 square feet: $30 per month
6. What if I'm moving within the district?
   Even when relocating within our service area, you'll need to complete a new application form and pay applicable fees for service at your new address.
7. What are the current water rates?
   As of July 1, 2013, both residential and commercial customers pay $17.92 per month base rate, plus $5.96 per thousand gallons of water used.
8. How do I terminate service when moving?
   Simply call our office to schedule service termination. Your final bill will be prorated based on your usage period.
9. What's your late payment policy?
   Effective August 1, 2007, any balance forward must be paid by the due date on your current statement or a $60 late fee will be added and service disconnected. No separate late notice will be sent.
10. Is lead a concern in my water?
    We conduct annual lead and copper monitoring. Lead typically isn't present in our water source or treatment processes but may enter water through older home plumbing systems using lead-based solder (banned in Tennessee since 1988). Running water for a few minutes before use can help minimize potential exposure.