West Memphis Waterworks

Certain individuals may be more vulnerable than the general population to specific microbial contaminants in water, including Cryptosporidium. Populations at heightened risk include: elderly individuals, infants, people with compromised immune systems such as cancer patients receiving chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, individuals on steroid treatments, and those with HIV/AIDS or other immune disorders.

These vulnerable groups should consult healthcare providers about their municipal water consumption. Additional guidelines on minimizing infection risks from Cryptosporidium and other microbial contaminants are available through the Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1-800-426-4791. It's worth noting that no Cryptosporidium has been detected in either of West Memphis's water sources.

Our water supply originates from groundwater sources. This report provides insights about these water sources, treatment facilities, and distribution systems. For comprehensive information on water sources, please review the "Source Water Assessments" section of our annual reports.

Municipal water sources (both tap and bottled) include rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, reservoirs, springs and wells. As water travels over land surfaces or underground, it dissolves naturally-occurring minerals and, in some cases, radioactive materials. Water can also pick up substances from animal presence or human activities.

Potential contaminants in source water may include:

• Microbial contaminants like viruses and bacteria from sewage treatment plants, septic systems, agricultural operations, and wildlife
• Inorganic contaminants such as salts and metals (naturally occurring or from urban runoff, industrial wastewater, oil/gas production, mining, or farming)
• Pesticides and herbicides from agriculture, urban stormwater runoff, and residential usage
• Organic chemical contaminants including synthetic and volatile organic compounds from industrial processes, petroleum production, gas stations, and septic systems
• Radioactive contaminants that occur naturally or result from oil/gas production and mining activities

The EPA establishes regulations limiting contaminant levels in public water systems to ensure safe drinking water. FDA regulations similarly set limits for contaminants in bottled water to provide equivalent public health protection.

Frequently Asked Questions About Municipal Water Service

1. What is the utility surcharge on my water bill?
   This represents a fee paid to the regional utility authority, assessed to water customers in municipalities throughout the county. The charge, based on population, helps repay infrastructure loans that were deferred after natural disasters. Each city selects its repayment method, with amounts owed based on water consumption patterns.
2. Why did my bill increase dramatically this month?
   You likely have a water leak, possibly a "silent toilet leak," which can waste up to 30,000 additional gallons monthly, potentially increasing your bill by nearly $200. (Remember that water usage affects both sewer and utility authority charges on your bill.) To check for toilet leaks, add food coloring to the tank and wait an hour without flushing. Colored water appearing in the bowl indicates a leak requiring flapper replacement.
3. Why does my water sometimes smell like rotten eggs?
   When taps remain unused for extended periods, treatment chemicals like chlorine can settle, causing odors. Simply run water for 1-2 minutes to resolve the issue. For hot water, sediment settling in your water heater might cause similar smells.
4. Where can I pay my water bill, and what payment methods are accepted?
   Payments can be made in person at the main office (195 Main Street), via drive-through, or at one of three drop boxes: at the Main Street office, at City Hall's north side, or at the Woolmarket fire station. Online and phone payment options are also available through the city website. Accepted payment forms include cash, check, and money orders. The utility also offers automatic bank drafts on monthly due dates.
5. Who should I contact about missed garbage, trash, or recycling pickup?
   Call the number printed on your trash or recycling cart. If you don't receive satisfactory assistance, contact your city's utility department through the main municipal service line.