InFocus - Issue 84 - June/July 2017 by City of Goodyear

JUNE / JULY 2017

ENVIRONMENT AND CONSERVATION

WATER QUALITY REPORT June / July 2017

From the Mayor The city of Goodyear is working diligently to ensure that we are good stewards of the outstanding environmental resources available to us, especially water. Our recentlyannounced partnership with Salt River Project to deliver surface water to the city will allow us to continue our growth in a thoughtful Mayor Georgia Lord and sustainable manner. Further, through our focus on conservation by way of our Water Conservation Committee, our free water conservation classes, and other tools that are available on the city’s website, we hope to encourage our residents to use water responsibly and conservatively as well.

GOODYEAR CITY COUNCIL CALENDAR June 5

6 p.m.

Special Meeting

June 12

6 p.m.

Inauguration

June 19

5 p.m.

Work Session

June 26

5 p.m.

Work Session

6 p.m.

Council Meeting

July 10

6 p.m.

Council Meeting

July 17

6 p.m.

Council Meeting

Work Session times are subject to change. Visit goodyearaz.gov/council-calendar to view updates. Council meetings and work sessions are held at Goodyear Justice Center, Goodyear Municipal Complex, 14455 W. Van Buren St., B101. Visit goodyearaz.gov for meeting schedules and to watch City Council meetings.

GOODYEAR CITY COUNCIL

We also take great pride in our efforts to educate our residents about the importance of recycling, how to recycle properly, and how to properly dispose of household hazardous waste materials. This education not only helps our residents to make environmentally-sound decisions when disposing of waste, it also helps to manage the costs of the city’s recycling and trash services. We hope this edition of the InFocus will provide you with additional information about the city’s resources and conservation efforts. To learn more about the city’s efforts to support the environment, visit www.goodyearaz.gov.

Council Corner This past April I had the honor of accepting the WaterNow Alliance Impact Award in Boulder, Colorado for the City of Goodyear’s Brine Wetland Feasibility Study. This new award recognizes decision makers for their leadership in support of projects working toward Council Member finding solutions for sustainable Wally Campbell water affecting both the local and regional levels. This study also was recognized with three other achievements last year, which solidifies the great work the city has accomplished with this study and the corresponding pilot program. The Brine Wetland Feasibility Study was based off of a “One-Water” philosophy. This philosophy deems all water important, even of poor quality, and brought multiple stakeholders to the table to work as one to find an economic and environmentallyfriendly way to dispose of the brine waste produced at our reverse osmosis treatment (R/O) center, which is the largest R/O center for potable drinking water in Arizona. The pilot program has been very successful and the City is in the process of planning for a large scale wetland project in our very own backyard. The wetland project will not only dispose of the brine waste, but will also contribute to recreational and animal habitats for a nearby regional county park and provide a riparian restoration enhancement to the Gila River thus increasing the flood control efforts with low capital investment! It never ceases to amaze me what our innovative staff can accomplish here in the city of Goodyear when we all work as one in support of these efforts. Congratulations team!!

InFocus Magazine

Top row (left to right): Joe Pizzillo, Vice Mayor Sheri Lauritano, Joanne Osborne, and Bill Stipp. Bottom row (left to right): Wally Campbell, Mayor Georgia Lord, and Sharolyn Hohman.

goodyearaz.gov/InFocus

Editor: Sherine Zaya Assistant Editor: Dawn Reid Writer: Amy Bolton Graphic Designer: Sarna OBrien-Trayner Questions or comments, email: communications@goodyearaz.gov

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Earlier this year, city of Goodyear and Salt River Project (SRP) officials signed a historic agreement allowing the city to tap into a system of canals that will deliver Central Arizona Project (CAP) water to the West Valley.

Planning for Water that is Yet to Come by Amy Bolton

After I fasten my seatbelt and turn on the headset, the twin blades of the Bell 212 twin Huey begin to whir. The 15-seat helicopter shimmies a bit before we lift off from the helipad at the Tempe offices of Salt River Project.

The majestic views of water in the desert from 2,190 feet courtesy of the Salt River Project Bell 212 helicopter.

As a 20-year resident of the Valley who grew up near the Great Lakes, I never really gave much thought about the journey of the water that comes out of my faucet. That was all about to change. As the helicopter pitches over the Salt River and dips to reveal a pack of wild horses, it is clear to me that this family is not unlike my own - we all depend on clean water to thrive. From 3,000 feet above the ground, patterns of lush greenery emerge from the flat, tan landscape along the winding Salt River.

Photo courtesy Central Arizona Project (CAP)

story continued on page 4

ON THE COVER: Yellow wildflowers and views of the Estrella Mountains flank the Gila River, which runs through Goodyear. Unlike other river beds in Arizona, the Gila has water year-round making for a very active riparian area.

June / July 2017

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Cunningham Wash Outlet Photo courtesy Central Arizona Project (CAP)

Roosevelt Dam in Gila County towers 357 feet above the Salt River, creating a 1.6 million acre-foot reservoir. The structure, first completed in 1911, is named after then-President Theodore Roosevelt. continued from page 3

You wouldn’t think that predicting the future is in anyone’s job description at the city, but when you’re responsible for delivering water in the desert to 90,000 people, you are in the business of planning decades ahead. While many of us can’t imagine what we are making for dinner next week, Goodyear’s Water Resources Manager Mark Holmes, who is sitting behind me in the Huey, is thinking about the city’s water demands in the year 2021, 2056 and even as far out as 2117. “Arizona’s Assured Water Supply Law limits how much water we can pump from the ground, so we had to find another way to bring water into the city,” says Mark. My mind races to all of the times I’ve let the water run while brushing my teeth, never realizing I was contributing to a problem. That alternate way of getting water to Goodyear is the reason that Mark, city leaders and I are in the SRP helicopter. Their collective forward-thinking posture brought about a historic agreement earlier this year between the city of Goodyear and Salt River Project (SRP). For the very first time in the company’s history, a West Valley city outside of its water delivery area will have its Central Arizona Project (CAP) surface water delivered by SRP. The wind shoves the helicopter right to left as our trusty pilot brings the aircraft to a smooth landing at the base of Roosevelt Dam. My eyes

are fixated on the 357-foot tall concrete dam that creates the reservoir on the other side, capable of capturing 1.6 million acre feet of water. Here we are told that not only does this dam contribute to the water needs in the Valley, it is capable of generating hydroelectric power. In fact, many of SRP’s eight dams use water during the day to create power when demand is high and then at night, some dams can pump water back up into the reservoir to recapture it for use time and again. As we stand in the canyon looking up at the dam, we are reminded that while the wilderness of Gila County is breathtaking, the wildfires that have plagued northern Arizona have an impact on our Valley drinking water. The erosion that sometimes results from wildfires brings silt to the drinking water reservoirs, reducing their capacity and adding turbidity. To ensure a safe and continuous supply of water, Goodyear will build a water treatment facility to treat our new supply. “This project not only positions Goodyear to be secure with its water supply through 2040, it enables intergovernmental partnerships with other cities and provides the first-ever mechanism for East-West Valley water collaboration,” Mark tells me as we walk toward the dam. How fitting that the city leaders working to ensure Goodyear’s growth and quality of life with SRP are standing at very spot that Theodore Roosevelt stood when the structure was dedicated in his name, securing the future of the Valley and all the growth that is still yet to come.

ON DEMAND, JUST PUSH PLAY An episode of InFocus Live! is delivered with each issue of the InFocus magazine. If you’d like to receive a notification of when the show and magazine are ready to view, subscribe through our eNotify service. Get an inside look at life in the city of Goodyear through InFocus Live!, a new video series featuring a wide variety of special guests and a behind-the-scenes look at your local government services. The staff favorite ‘Video in a Van’ segment is a “windshield” style interview that takes place on a drive through the city.

goodyearaz.gov/InFocus

View past editions of InFocus magazine and episodes of InFocus Live! online at goodyearaz.gov/infocuslive and join the conversation on social media. For more information, contact the Public Information Office at 623-882-7053 or email communications@goodyearaz.gov.

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Water Conservation Committee members (left to right): Jackson Moll; Marlon Booth; Jack Gilmore; Mario Columbia, Chairman; Jennifer Barber, Co-Chairman; Aurthur Faiello; Pete Teiche; Laura Kaino; Peter Minarik. Not pictured: Randy Smith, Susan Kagan.

As the fourteenth fastest growing city in the nation, Goodyear knows the vital role water conservation plays in development and securing a prosperous future for residents, businesses and visitors. June / July 2017

WATER CONSERVATION COMMIT TEE Recognized as a leader in water conservation, Goodyear’s forward-thinking City Council approved the formation of the Water Conservation Committee in 2016. Connected through their common mission of discovering ways Goodyear can set priorities for water conservation and reduce water usage, the Committee held its initial meeting in July of that year. The Committee comes together eight to 10 times a year to compile recommendations it will bring back to Council for consideration. Since 50 to 70 percent of water usage is for outdoor purposes, the Committee – made up of water rate payers, and representatives from the landscape, building/development, and property management industries – will review current water usage patterns, with a primary focus on reducing outdoor water use.

Connected Through Water by Amy Bolton

When I asked the members of the Water Conservation Committee why they stepped forward to serve as a volunteer for the city, there was one overriding theme: a shared desire to preserve a high quality of life for future generations. While the connection to water is a very personal one for each member, the passion for bringing awareness to how all of us can contribute to carefully using and preserving our water resources. Committee Member Randy Smith summed it up this way - “Volunteering was an opportunity to serve my community and work on an issue critical to all Goodyear citizens: an available high-quality water supply. I believe it is our responsibility to live a water efficient lifestyle to ensure costeffective supplies for the future.” Like many of us, myself included, Committee Member Marlon Booth is from an area of the country that had an ample water supply. His perspective highlights the differences across the country on the availability of water resources. “I am originally from Michigan,” states Booth. “Moving to Arizona made me realize how important water decisions are for the future.” Randy Smith agrees. “Water impacts life in every way imaginable. From basic survival, to better health and hygiene, to recreationwater is the foundational to quality of life.” Committee Member Faiello adds that “Without water, nothing we currently know of would exist. Our ability to live and thrive in this environment is wholly attributed to the availability of adequate quality supply of water for drinking, crop irrigation, manufacturing, and other personal uses. It is paramount to leave our environment a better place than it was before us.” 6

goodyearaz.gov/InFocus

Mission

The Water Conservation Committee is an advisory body to the City Council on water efficiency in the city of Goodyear. Since outdoor water use represents 50 to 70 percent of all water use in the city, the Committee will focus its review and provide recommendations for near-term outdoor water conservation actions that support the future growth and sustainability of the city.

Meetings

First established in February 2016 by the City Council through the adoption of Resolution 16-1717, the 11-member Water Conservation Committee meets once per month for ten months of the year. Per the Resolution creating the Committee, it will dissolve by June 30, 2018. Meetings are generally held on Tuesday evenings at 6 p.m. at Goodyear City Hall, 190 N. Litchfield Road.

Meaning

When the city’s existing water conservation plan was developed in 2008, the region was only eight years into the current 17-year drought. Heightened stress on the available water supply coupled with the city’s growing demand requires careful management of all water resources to maximize limited supply. Simply stated, to continue to preserve the quality of life and grow our city, we have to be more prudent with how we use our water.

Mario Columbia, Chairman “My passion for water and the life water gives motivates me to encourage solutions which can protect and restore water resources ensuring that we will all have adequate water today and into the future. Let’s be water smart, not water short.”

Art Faiello, Member “I tenaciously believe that one of the indispensable obligations every individual member of society bears is the assurance of adequate essential resources for all current and future generations. I view the pleasure of serving on the Committee as my duty as a twenty-year water utility and public works professional.” Marlon Booth, Member “I serve because we are all connected to water conservation so we should play a role in finding ways to provide water resources for the next generation. Our choices now can and will affect future generations of homeowners, businesses and visitors to our great city.”

Worker Bugs

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by Amy Bolton

TARDIGRADES Known as the ‘water bear,’ they have eight legs with claws and can survive in the most extreme conditions. Their presence is indicative of older wastewater. Water bears can survive decades without food or water and even in outer space.

FLAGELLATES A single-celled organism found in fresh wastewater that absorbs dissolved nutrients to survive. They use a whip-like tail to move around and direct food to their mouth.

BRISTLE WORMS One of the most common microscopic worms in wastewater, bristle worms feed on just about anything. Sometimes they can turn the wastewater pink and their presence typically means the wastewater is older.

There are some city workers that are on duty all day and all night and never take a day off. No, they are not machines or robots. These industrious creatures are the microscopic bacteria that thrive in our three water reclamation facilities. What do they do exactly? They make a career out of turning human waste into organic material that goes through extensive treatment processes, and eventually, makes its way back into the ground. Human waste is part of life and the city of Goodyear has a dedicated, licensed professional team of experts and bacteria working to ensure that when you flush, you never have to worry about it again. For those of you who are curious about what happens after you flush, here’s an overview: Wastewater flows into a chamber where grit settles and is removed. Then, it flows into giant aeration basins – where our microscopic workers live. These basins offer environments that allow them to thrive and break down the wastewater. The basins have an aerobic zone where oxygen is added to encourage growth of the microorganisms. There also is an anoxic zone that lacks oxygen so the life forms get to work breaking down the waste. Single-cell bacteria feed on the organic matter first before the amoebas, flagellates and ciliates get their turn. We like to see ciliates because they are indicative of a healthy environment in the process. Here’s where it gets interesting. There is actually a microorganism named Tardigrades that is known as a water bear. These creatures have eight legs with claws and feed on the other microorganisms. Their presence is an indicator of the age of the wastewater. Many factors can affect the health and activity of these microscopic workers including the temperature, pH and type of organic material in the wastewater. Our human staff continuously monitor the conditions of their tiny counterparts through the use of a microscope. These technicians are looking to ensure that the environment in the basins is conducive to the breakdown process. If necessary, adjustments are made to keep things flowing. June / July 2017

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Navigating the Drought by Mark Holmes and Amy Bolton Higher than average temperatures and abnormally low precipitation levels for the last 17 years have caused a drought in Arizona. Water shortages in the Colorado River basin since 2000 have forced cities, including Goodyear, to look at how to supply water during these challenging, dry times.

Our city has prepared for, and is navigating the drought, with a strategy that includes banking water in the ground for future use and creating the Water Conservation Committee to explore how conservation can further stretch our water supply.

Banking Water While the expression ‘saving for a rainy day’ implies that rain brings hardship, as Arizona desert dwellers, we know that rainy days are rare delights. In Phoenix, the annual average precipitation total (based on weather data from 1981 to 2010*) is 8.2 inches spread out over 30 days per year. Compare that to Chicago’s Midway Airport that sees 123 days per year of precipitation, totaling 39.1 inches. In Goodyear, we bank or recharge all of the water generated at our main water reclamation facility. We pump this purified water underground into the aquifer using pumps known as injection wells. We also have a basin where water seeps back into the ground. Through these processes, we have banked more than 90,000 acre-feet of water. To put that into perspective, one acre-foot of water is

325,851 gallons or enough to cover one acre with one foot of water. Doing that math, we’ve recharged more than 29 billion gallons of water for when we actually have no rainy days. Banking this water has helped to make Goodyear drought resilient.

Conservation Another way that Goodyear is actively working to be drought resilient is to work hard at conserving. In addition to saving water for future use in Goodyear, we encourage responsible use of the water we have today. In February 2016, the City Council formed the 11-member Water Conservation Committee, who is working to compile outdoor water conservation recommendations for the city’s consideration. The Committee is focusing on outdoor water conservation by studying usage patterns to offer impactful and precise ways the city can reduce outdoor water use. Fifty to 70 percent of Goodyear’s water is used outside. These projects and activities have ensured that Goodyear is in a solid position to responsibly deliver water despite the dry conditions Mother Nature has handed to the Southwest. The city’s water experts have forecasted that our water resources are well-positioned to bring us to the year 2040. This accounts not only for the amount of homes we have built today, but all of the growth in rooftops and retail that are planned and projected for the years ahead.

*Annual precipitation data source: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), www.noaa.gov

Top THREE Water Waste Offenders Replace or repair broken sprinkler heads and drip irrigation lines and bubblers. Turn off the faucet when brushing your teeth.

goodyearaz.gov/InFocus

Inspect outdoor spigots and hoses for leaks.

Did you know… U Water covers nearly 71 percent of the planet’s surface. U Ninety-seven percent of the water on Earth is salt water. U Only 0.3 percent of the world’s fresh water is in the Earth’s lakes, rivers, streams, etc. Much of the fresh water is in glaciers, in the ground or in the atmosphere. U There is more water in the atmosphere than in all of our rivers combined. U An inch of water covering one acre is 27,154 gallons and weighs 113 tons. U The first water pipes in the U.S. were made from hollowed logs. U More than one-quarter of all bottled water comes from a municipal water supply – the same place as your tap. U The average adult human body is made of 50 to 65 percent water. Newborns are 78 percent water. U On average, an American resident uses about 100 gallons of water per day while Europeans average about 50 gallons. Source: United States Environmental Protection Agency. Visit www.epa.gov for more water facts, statistics and resources.

• •••••• ••••••••••••••• • The average valley household uses between 6,000 and 15,000 gallons of water per month. Save water indoors by: nstalling water sa ing showerheads e er using the toilet as a waste as et

urning off the water while rushing our teeth or sha ing ull loading the clothes and our dish washing machines

Up to 70 percent of residential water use is outside. Save water outdoors by: on erting to desert landscapes with low water use plants or s nthetic turf in lieu of grass

sing a room rather than a hose to clean dri ewa s and wal wa s

urning off irrigation s stems on rain da s

d usting sprin lers so the don t water the sidewal or street Small leaks can accumulate big water losses. One drip every second adds up to five gallons per day! i ing water lea s ma es financial sense ost homeowners sa e ten percent on water ills after fi ing common lea s hec outdoor irrigation s stems and hoses regularl for ro en heads and lea s

hec all indoor faucets pipes and toilets for lea s

ource ri ona unicipal ater ser s ssociation isit www amwua org for more water sa ing tips tools and resources Xeriscape encompasses drought tolerant, native plants which require less water and maintenance – meaning residents save money on water bills without sacrificing the beauty of our Sonoran desert.

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Water Philosophy Wins Top Awards All water is important. That is the basis of the city’s award-winning One Water Philosophy. Several innovative projects happening in Goodyear have caught the eye of the water industry and have been recognized with these awards: Top Project 2016 award from Water Environment Federation recognizing how Goodyear brings together all stakeholders to make water-related decisions. The award was presented in New Orleans at WEFTEC, the largest conference of its kind in North America drawing water quality professionals from around the world. Most Innovative Project 2016 award from the National Reuse Association for Goodyear’s innovative method of creating wetlands as a way to re-purpose brine created by reverse osmosis. The award was received at the National Reuse Conference in Tampa. Best Program 2016 award from the Arizona WateReuse Association for public education, including curriculum, classroom instruction and tours, to promote a better appreciation of water resources, management and conservation. WateReuse Arizona is comprised of state water professionals working together to encourage and assist communities achieve sustainable water supplies through reclamation and reuse. Top Ten Award 2015 from the editors of Water and Waste Digest for delivering remediated water to irrigate the fields at the Goodyear Ballpark saving the city more than $200,000 a year and preserving drinking water.

National Reuse Association: Most Innovative Project 2016 award Arizona Water Reuse Association: Best Program 2016 for the “One Water” philosophy

www.wwdmag.com

Water Environment Federation: Top Project 2016 award for the “One Water” philosophy

Top Ten Award 2014 from the editors of Water and Waste Digest for designing high-capacity wells on city land to store more reclaimed water. The city wells will have the capability to inject into the ground slightly more than 43 billion gallons; a volume of water that can serve 5,200 homes for 100 years. For more information about the city’s water initiatives, visit

goodyearaz.gov/h2o365

The city of Goodyear has won national recognition for using brine – the saltwater produced through the reverse osmosis purification process – to grow wetlands. This demonstration project has promising implications for how cities around the country can re-purpose brine while creating natural habitats for wildlife, and recreation areas for people.

goodyearaz.gov/InFocus

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Q U A L I T Y

R E P O R T

Quality and Quantity The city of Goodyear’s Public Works Department manages water and wastewater services for areas south of Interstate 10 (with a few exceptions), as well as equipment and facility maintenance and sanitation services for all residents. Two divisions - Water Distribution and Water Production – within the department are responsible for delivering safe drinking water to customers through a 308-mile long main network of underground pipes, which vary in size from four to 30 inches in diameter. They also are responsible for the pumping and treatment of water from underground – currently, the only source for Goodyear – and ensuring it meets environmental quality standards. The city operates and maintains 12 ground water wells, four treatment facilities, and 10 reservoirs and pumping facilities. On the next few pages, you will read about the quality of the city’s water supply in fairly technical and scientific terms, as mandated by the federal government. For those of us who are not chemists, the only real thing you need to know is your drinking water is safe – and will continue to be since it is our number one priority.

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City of Goodyear (PWS# 07-094)

2016 Water Quality Data units

MCL or MRDL

MCLG or MRDLG

year sampled

running average OR highest value

low

Chlorine (as Cl2)

ppm

2016

0.46

Haloacetic Acid (HAA5)

ppb

n/a

2016

TTHM’s (total trihalomethanes)

ppb

n/a

Arsenic

ppb

Nitrate

ppm

Barium

Regulated Substances

range

high

violation

1.00

no**

5.0

2.9

8.5

2016

32.8

2016

5.7

2.6

7.9

2016

9.1

2.9

9.1

ppm

2016

0.078

0.024

0.17

Sodium (optional)

ppm

n/a

2016

111

160

Fluoride*

ppm

2016

1.8

0.21

1.8

Selenium

ppb

2013

Chromium

ppb

100

2016

4.7

% positive samples

5% positive monthly samples

2016

no**

ppb

2016

1.2

1.1

1.2

Gross Alpha

pCi/l

2016

6.3+/-0.5

0.7+/-0.2

6.3+/-0.5

Combined Radium 226 & 228

pCi/l

2016

0.5+/-0.1

Uranium

pCi/l

n/a

units

Action level (90% of homes less than)

MCLG

year sampled

Amt detected 90th %tile

low

high

violation

Copper

ppm

1.3

2016

0.25

0.39

Lead

ppb

2016

1.7

11.4

Disinfectants & Disinfectant By-Products

Inorganics

Microbiological Total Coliforms

Volatile Organics Trichloroethylene Radionuclides

range

Lead and Copper

Action Level—The concentration of a contaminant which, if exceeded, triggers treatment or other requirements which a water system must follow; MCL (Maximum Contaminant Level)—The highest level of a contaminant that is allowed in drinking water; MCLs are set as close to the MCLGs as feasible using the best available treatment technology; MCLG (Maximum Contaminant Level Goal)—The level of a contaminant in drinking water below which there is no known or expected risk to health. MCLGs allow for a margin of safety; MRDL (Maximum Residual Disinfectant Level)—The highest level of a disinfectant allowed in drinking water. Disinfectant is necessary for control of

goodyearaz.gov/InFocus

Who is my water company? Did you know that there is more than one provider of water in the city of Goodyear? If you aren’t sure who’s your water company, call the city at 623-882-7887, and we will be happy to confirm your water provider.

Liberty Utilities (PWS# 07-046) year sampled

running average OR highest value

low

2016

range

high

violation

Water additive used to control microbes

4.0

2.6

4.0

By-product of drinking water chlorination

2016

31.5

10.8

31.5

By-product of drinking water chlorination

2016

10.0

Erosion of natural deposits; Runoffs from orchards; Runoffs from glass and electronics production wastes

2016

Runoff from fertilizer use;Leaching from septic tanks,sewage; Erosion of natural deposits

2016

0.12

0.05

0.12

Discharge of drilling wastes; Discharge from metal refineries; Erosion of natural deposits

2014

120.2

235

Erosion of natural deposits; Leaching

2016

1.45

0.43

1.45

Erosion of natural deposits; Water additive which promotes strong teeth; Discharge from fertilizer and aluminum factories

2016

Discharge from petroleum and metal refineries; Erosion of natural deposits; Discharge from mines

2016

Discharge from steel and pulp mills; Erosion of natural deposits

2016

Naturally present in the environment

n/a

Discharge from metal degreasing sites and other factories

2016

Erosion of natural deposits

2016

Erosion of natural deposits

2010

Erosion of natural deposits

year sampled

Amt detected 90th %tile

low

high

violation

2016

0.074

0.166

Corrosion of household plumbing systems; Erosion of natural deposits; Leaching from wood preservatives

2016

2.5

6.6

Corrosion of household plumbing systems; Erosion of natural deposits

range

major sources in drinking water

microbial contaminants; MRDLG (Maximum Residual Disinfectant Level Goal)—The level of a drinking water disinfectant below which there is no known or expected risk to health; pCi/l (picocuries per liter); ppb (parts per billion)—One part substance per billion parts water (or micrograms per liter); ppm (parts per million)—One part substance per million parts water (or milligrams per liter); n/a—not applicable; ND—not detected. *Goodyear does not fluoridate the drinking water; it is naturally occuring in the groundwater. ** reporting violation.

June / July 2017

The Source of Your Water

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The city of Goodyear’s drinking water source is 100% groundwater. The city has production wells, storage facilities, and pressure booster stations. The underground aquifer from which the city receives its water is called the West Salt Valley Sub-Basin. The city of Goodyear also purchases water from Liberty Utilities, which draws from the same West Salt Valley Sub-Basin Aquifer. The aquifer’s depth ranges from 100 to 1,000 feet from the surface. With 12 well sites and ten booster stations, Goodyear’s operating system has a storage capacity of 15.9 million gallons.

Drinking water, including bottled water, may reasonably be expected to contain at least small amounts of some contaminants. The presence of contaminants does not necessarily indicate that water poses a health risk. Some people may be more vulnerable to contaminants in drinking water than the general population. Immuno-compromised persons such as persons with cancer undergoing chemotherapy, persons who have undergone organ transplants, people with HIV/AIDS or other immune system disorders, some elderly, and infants can be particularly at risk from infections. These people should seek advice about drinking water from their health care providers. For more information about contaminants and potential health effects, or to receive a copy of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines on appropriate means to lessen the risk of infection by Cryptosporidium and other microbial contaminants, call EPA Safe Water Drinking Hotline (800-426-4791). If present, elevated levels of lead can cause serious health problems, especially for pregnant women and young children. Lead in drinking water is primarily from materials and components associated with service lines and home plumbing. City of Goodyear is responsible for providing high quality drinking water, but cannot control the variety of materials used in plumbing components used within private buildings or residences. When your water has been sitting for several hours, you can minimize the potential for lead exposure by flushing your tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using water

NOTICE

R E P O R T

for drinking or cooking. If you are concerned about lead in your water, you may wish to have your water tested. Information on lead in drinking water, testing methods, and steps you can take to minimize exposure is available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline or http://www.epa.gov/safewater/lead. While your drinking water meets EPA’s standard for arsenic, it does contain low levels of arsenic. EPA’s standard balances the current understanding of arsenic’s possible health effects against the costs of removing arsenic from drinking water. EPA continues to research the health effects of low levels of arsenic which is a mineral known to cause cancer in humans at high concentrations and is linked to other health effects such as skin damage and circulatory problems. Nitrate in drinking water at levels above 10 ppm is a health risk for infants of less than six months of age. High nitrate levels in drinking water can cause blue baby syndrome. Nitrate levels may rise quickly for short periods of time because of rainfall or agricultural activity. If you are caring for an infant, you should ask advice from your health care provider.

Monitoring Requirements Not Met On August 26, 2016, we became aware that our system recently failed to collect the correct number of drinking water samples. Based on population, we took total coliform samples and chlorine residuals weekly for a total of 40 samples per month, representing the entire distribution system. In May, the population reached the next trigger level which increased the monitoring requirements to 50 samples per month. The failure to take the correct number of samples occurred for a period of three months. As of August 1, 2016 we began monitoring 50 representative total coliform samples and chlorine residuals and will continue to monitor on this schedule until the population triggers the next increase in sampling. There is nothing you need to do at this time. Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. Este informe contiene información muy importante sobre el agua que usted bebe. Tradúzcalo ó hable con alguien que lo entienda bien. Para español llame al 623-882-7511.

ANNUAL SEWER RATE ADJUSTMENT City of Goodyear sewer customers south of Interstate 10 may see a rate adjustment this month. Every year, sewer bills are recalculated and adjusted based on water usage billed during the Winter Quarter Average (WQA) months of January, February, and March. The winter quarter is typically the time of year with the lowest water usage, therefore using these months to average the annual cost of sewer could save customers money. Customers that disagree with the rate adjustment can file an appeal from June 1 to Aug. 31; some restrictions apply. If a customer chooses to appeal, the city will mail a decision within 30 business days. For more information and a Sewer Fee Adjustment Self-Audit Form, visit goodyearaz.gov/sewerappeal.

goodyearaz.gov/InFocus

T R A S H

A N D

R E C Y C L I N G

Contamination Spoils Recycling by Amy Bolton

THESE ITEMS CANNOT BE RECYCLED. PUT THEM IN THE TAN TRASH CONTAINER.

BAG TIE AND

Organic waste such as food, pet and yard waste should not be put into the recycling container.

Pizza and other fast food boxes are likely contaminated with grease or other food debris, preventing recycling.

GARBAGE AND

GRASS

Greenery Goes Where?

Phoebe Knows Best

Aubrie Jones is a busy professional who has been a resident of Goodyear for the past five years. As a realtor, she makes her living matching people with their dream home. One thing she recently learned is that tree limbs, branches and grass clippings don’t belong in the green curbside recycling bin. “I thought yard waste is from the earth, you know, it should be recycled,” said Aubrie.

Dawn Reid is a city employee and Goodyear resident who recently relocated from Chicago with her husband Roger and their beloved Phoebe, a yellow Labrador Retriever. As most Chicagoans, Dawn and Roger are serious about pizza. “We thought we were doing our part to recycle our cardboard pizza boxes,” says Dawn. “It surprised me to learn that the grease and food that sticks to the pizza boxes actually does harm to recyclables.” Dawn laughs at how smart her dog is. “I think Phoebe knew that the boxes weren’t recyclable because she kept dragging them out of the bin and chewing them.”

During a tour of the Waste Management Material Recovery Facility (MRF), or “murf” for short, she learned the havoc that every stick, leaf and branch causes on both the machinery and the workers. “That yard waste jams the system and they have to work really hard to get it out.” Like most people who recycle, Aubrie wants to do the right thing – she just didn’t know what was actually recyclable in Goodyear. She now puts her yard trimmings in the trash bin and serves as the subject matter expert for her neighbors, friends and family on what can go in the green bins in Goodyear.

Goodyear’s Sanitation Supervisor Adam Kurtz explains why contamination is a problem: “Grease, food and pet waste in the green curbside recycling bin coats the truckload of recyclables as the material is mingled in the truck. This can contaminate the whole load – essentially turning what was once useful, energy-saving material that could go on to be re-worked into other products, to trash that is buried in a landfill.”

Workers at the Waste Management Materials Recovery Facility look for plastic bags and other contaminants that get stuck in the machinery and compromise safety.

June / July 2017

T R A S H

A N D

Recycling is a Slam Dunk

R E C Y C L I N G

With two young active children and a full-time job at the city of Goodyear, Vanessa Enriquez is always on the go. Like many busy families, she makes several trips to the grocery store during the week. “We’re always at the grocery store,” she says. “These kids eat so much! We have so many of those plastic grocery bags. My kids, wanting to do the right thing, put them in the recycle bin. It wasn’t until they had a presentation at their school that they learned that wasn’t the right thing to do.”

Plastic bags, plastic wrap or rigid plastics such as buckets, toys and outdoor furniture should not be put inthe curbside recycling container.

NO, Josh! Plastic bags DO NOT go in the curbside container!

Out at the MRF, plastic bags are quite hazardous. “Plastic bags get caught on the wheels of the machinery just like hair gets caught on your vacuum brush.” Adam explains. “Several times a day, we’ll have to shut down the whole line and have a worker extract the bags. It slows down our recycling ecosystem and it creates a huge hazard for the workers.” “Now that we know plastic bags cannot go in our curbside recycling bin, we save them up and take them back to the store with us. Pretty much every grocery store accepts bags for recycling,” says Vanessa. “We make it a game and see how big of a ball we can collect and slam dunk as we walk into the store. They love it!”

Vanessa and her children, Joshua age 12 and Alexia age 10, make a game of sorting out non-recyclables, then rinsing and dunking recyclables into the correct bin.

Food waste goes in the the trash

goodyearaz.gov/InFocus

Maximizing the Impact Since we want to maximize the energy savings from recycling, and minimize the amount of trash that goes into landfills, it is important to recycle the right things. Here are some helpful tips to make the biggest impact with your recycling:

Keep it Simple Recycle bottles, jugs, cans, paper, boxes, magazines and newspapers

Keep it Clean Lightly rinse and leave the lids on

When to Trash It Send food, diapers, pizza boxes, dog food bags, takeout containers, paper towels, tissue, napkins, coffee cups, Styrofoam, juice pouches, pillow-packs, and yard clippings to the landfill.

Hazardous & Bulk Waste For a complete listing of what can be recycled curbside, visit

goodyearaz.gov/trash

Styrofoam egg cartons go in the trash

Household hazardous waste is collected twice per year in spring and fall, free of charge to Goodyear account holders. Unwanted and expired prescriptions can be taken to the Police Department or a local drug store. Items too big for curbside bins are collected in the monthly bulk trash pick-up.

Old or broken electronic devices require special recycling. To find locations that accept electronics, visit earth911.com

Put paper towels in the trash

June / July 2017

Loma Linda Park

Cleansing, Cooling & Contributing Tree Facts The city’s tree inventory includes 706 large canopy (30’) trees and 1,716 palm trees. Loma Linda Park has some of the city’s oldest trees with ages estimated at 50 years. Primary tree species in Goodyear are Palo Verde, Mesquite, Ash, Elm and Acacia – chosen for their low maintenance and water needs. Every dollar spent on planting and caring for a community tree yields benefits that are two to five times that investment. Benefits include cleaner air, lower energy costs, improved water quality, storm water control, and increased property values. U.S. Forest Service, 2011 Trees remove pollution from the atmosphere, improving air quality and human health. U.S. Forest Service, 2013 Trees lower surface and air temperatures by providing shade. Shaded surfaces may be 20 – 45° F cooler than the peak temperatures of unshaded materials. Trees cool the city by up to 10° F by shading our homes and streets and releasing water vapor into the air through their leaves. U.S. EPA One large tree can provide a day’s supply of oxygen for up to four people. North Carolina State University 18

goodyearaz.gov/InFocus

Six things you should know when planting a tree 1. Call before you dig — Several days before planting, call the national 811 hotline to have underground utilities located. 2. Handle with care — Always lift the tree by the root ball. Keep roots moist until planting. 3. Dig a proper hole — Dig 2 to 5 times wider than the diameter of the root ball with sloping sides to allow for proper root growth. 4. Planting depth — The trunk flare should sit slightly above ground level and the topmost roots should be buried 1 to 2 inches. 5. Filling the hole — Backfill with native soil unless it’s all clay. Tamp in soil gently to fill large air spaces. 6. Mulch — Allow 1 to 2 inches of clearance between the trunk and the mulch. Mulch should be 2 to 3 inches deep.

For more tips and information, visit

arborday.org

Community Health Park: Master Plan Update Providing a public outdoor space dedicated to wellness where people can heal and pursue a healthy lifestyle is the purpose of Goodyear’s Community Health Park. The 129-acre parcel of land that will become a master-planned park is located along the north

Timeline April 12: Stakeholder Meeting Concepts Formed

side of Interstate 10 between Dysart and Bullard roads in the city’s Medical Innovation Corridor.

April 19: Public Meeting

Open House: Concepts Presented,

To date, three concepts were formed through workshops, public

Ideas Collected

meetings and an online survey involving community stakeholders, wellness partners and the public. The current theme combines

May 16: Public Meeting Open House: Hybrid Concept Presented

three main concepts: Mind and Body; Nature/Nurture; and Human Nature. Precincts in the park promote unique spaces that offer innovative wellness amenities.

June 28: Public Meeting

Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission: Master Plan Recommendation

For more information, visit

goodyearaz.gov/communityhealthpark Call 623-882-3190 or email: parkplanning@goodyearaz.gov.

July 17:

Public Meeting

City Council: Master Plan Adoption

Input from patients, local healthcare practitioners, the public, and health-conscious community partners has led to the “Mind, Body & Spirit” concept for the Goodyear Community Health Park, 129 acres along the north side of Interstate 10 which will be dedicated to healing and promoting healthy lifestyles.

June / July 2017

Energy Savings – Parks Get LED Lights When it came time for five city parks to have their bulbs replaced, Goodyear chose the environmentally-friendly option.

A new solar canopy at Fry’s Marketplace, 16380 W. Yuma Road, offers shade for two acres of parking. The structure consists of 3,250 solar panels that provide 53 percent of the store’s yearly power demand.

REI Honored for Sustainability REI’s 400,000 square-foot Goodyear facility is the first distribution center in the U.S. to achieve LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Platinum status. This is the highest level in the U.S. Green Building Council’s rating system.

HOLIDAY TRASH COLLECTION SCHEDULE City offices closed and sanitation pickup changes There will be no trash, recycling or bulk pickup on July 4 in observance of Independance Day. Waste collection will move to the day after the regularly-scheduled pickup day. For more information and a holiday sanitation service schedule, call 623-932-3010 or visit goodyearaz.gov/trash.

Aging and failing pathway lights have been replaced with energy efficient light emitting diode lights, or LEDs as we know them. The LED lights are projected to use sixty percent less energy than previous bulbs and last up to 10 years. The new lighting system requires less maintenance and can sense motion - going from a low glow to a brighter mode upon detection of activity. When no activity is sensed, the lights go back to a low glow, further saving energy. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, widespread use of LED lighting has the greatest potential impact on energy savings. In the next 10 years, using LEDs could save more than $30 billion at today’s electricity prices. The cost benefits realized in Goodyear by switching to these lower energy use bulbs has allowed the city to expand the hours park lights are on, allowing for extended recreation hours; reducing opportunities for crime and graffiti; and improving the safety of people in the parks – including our first responders.

Look for new LED lighting at: Estrella Vista South, 2700 S. 157th Avenue Loma Linda Park, 400 E. Loma Linda Boulevard Palm Valley, 13189 W. Monte Vista Drive Parque de Paz, 1601 N. Palo Verde Drive Rio Paseo, 15200 W. Virginia Avenue

goodyearaz.gov/InFocus

Little Ballplayers Score with Paul Goldschmidt Field Falcon Park, 15050 W. Indian School Road, is now home to Paul Goldschmidt Field. Made possible through a generous donation from the Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation, APS, and Paul Goldschmidt, the field underwent $500,000 in upgrades, including: new lights; an electronic scoreboard; fencing; backstops; new irrigation, grass and dirt; and updated dugouts and bullpens. The upgrades were completed at no cost to the city. Nicknamed “Goldy” and “America’s first baseman”, Paul Goldschmidt, the first baseman of the Arizona Diamondbacks, is also a dad, a husband and a champion of charitable causes. With the team since 2011, Goldschmidt is a four-time Major League Baseball All-Star. He has won the National League Hank Aaron Award, Gold Glove Award, and Silver Slugger Award. What’s also at Falcon Park? A playground; 20 acres of open space; softball field; sand volleyball; basketball courts; restrooms; drinking fountain; walking path; ramadas and seating. For more information on youth recreation opportunities in Goodyear, visit

goodyearaz.gov/rec Falcon Park

Photography courtesey Sarah Sachs/Arizona Diamondbacks

15050 W. Indian School Road Open dawn until dusk 623-882-7525

June / July 2017

Traffic Safety Tip Equipment violations

According to Arizona state laws, there are a few “primary stop” equipment violations that drivers may not be aware of that can get them pulled over by an officer. First, the front driver and passenger side door windows cannot have tint with less than 33 percent light transmission, meaning 33 percent of the light must be able to pass through the window. The rear doors and windows may be tinted as desired. If you’re not sure if your window tint is compliant, stop by the Goodyear Police Department and have an officer check for you. Another common violation is that raised pickup trucks must have rear mud flaps that are not more than eight inches off the ground and cover the entire width of the rear tire.

Lastly, no vehicle - other than authorized emergency vehicles may have red or blue lights visible to the front. White or amber are permitted. The law also states that no more than two auxiliary or fog lights may be placed in the front of the vehicle, and it must have two working headlights that are between 22” and 54” from the ground. Do not drive using only auxiliary or fog lights at night, always use headlights. Traffic-related questions can be sent to Goodyear PD Traffic Unit Sgt. J. Seabright at jseabright@goodyearaz.gov or call at 623-882-7735.

In case you missed it, here is a recap of some of the city events, programs and

happenings making headlines. Want more news? Subscribe to updates at goodyearaz.gov/news and join the conversation online by following us on social media. RESIDENTS LEARN ABOUT UPCOMING CITY BUDGET Residents provided feedback through a series of public meetings about the fiscal year 2018 budget, which runs July 1, 2017 through June 30, 2018. The City Council is scheduled to adopt the budget, available online at goodyearaz.gov/transparency, in June.

ART PROGRAMS ENCOURAGE AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION Water Art

LIGHT POLE BANNERS IN GOODYEAR TO FEATURE LOCAL ARTISTS’ DESIGNS Four city of Goodyear resident artists have their work featured on banners around the city. Measuring 72 inches tall and 30 inches wide, the banners will be on display through October on 160 light poles in Goodyear.

TEENS SOUGHT FOR POSITIONS ON YOUTH COMMISSION Goodyear teens

in the Park is a free event on June 17 that encourages creative expression using water to create tie-dyed artwork. People of all ages and abilities are welcome. For more information call 623-882-7525.

were invited to apply for the Youth Commission which provides a venue for students to develop leadership skills through involvement in city government and creates a format for students to express their voice on a variety of youthrelated issues.

SUMMIT PROMOTES CITY/SCHOOL COLLABORATION City officials hosted

SKATEBOARDING TRICKS, FASHION AND CULTURE AT 2017 SKATEFEST

the eighth annual Building Blocks to Great Schools summit. With an agenda focused on information sharing and problem solving, city and school leaders developed policies and practices that bolster the quality of education and enrich the lives of students, families, teachers, and the community.

Skateboarders of all ages and skill levels came out to SkateFest 2017. The annual festival brings skaters from all over the valley to showcase their skills, learn new tricks, and enjoy the culture around skateboarding.

goodyearaz.gov/InFocus

Did you know… Stormwater can pick up trash, motor oil, grease, pet waste, fertilizers, and yard wastes as it flows over streets and yards. Stormwater does not go to water treatment plants — it is transported by streets, curbs, storm drains, and channels to community stormwater retention basins and rivers. Keeping stormwater clean protects our open spaces and surface water. We can all help by using and disposing of potential stormwater pollutants safely and properly. For more information on ways to help, visit:

ORG Download the ‘Clean Air Make More’ for real-time Phoenix air quality information and air pollution statistics right on your smartphone or tablet, providing air quality forecasts, air quality restrictions, and the ability to report a Phoenix air quality problem.

CLEANAIRMAKEMORE.COM

Don’t overwater plants or make puddles Landscape watering is the largest use of water in the summer. Goodyear residents and businesses use 11 million gallons of water each day from June through August. Save money and water. Avoid over watering outdoors.

If you live in the Southwest, you are

CONNECTED TO LAKE MEAD

Learn how you’re connected and why your connection matters For a helpful watering guide, visit

http://bit.ly/2r16pgu

www.ProtectLakeMead.com /

@ProtectLakeMead June / July 2017

ECRWSS Postal Customer 190 N. Litchfield Rd. Goodyear AZ 85338 goodyearaz.gov 623-932-3910 A Top 10 Best U.S. City to Live – 24/7WallSt.com

City of Goodyear Community Days at the YMCA Hosted by the city of Goodyear and the Southwest Valley Family YMCA. Free on the following dates from noon – 4:30 p.m. for Goodyear residents/employees and YMCA members ONLY. Must show proof of residency. For more information about “Community Days” at the Southwest Family YMCA, call 623-935-5193 or stop in and see us at 2919 N. Litchfield Road, Goodyear, AZ 85395.

June 10 and June 17 July 15 and July 29 August 12 and August 26 September 2 at the Ballpark

Watch a movie from the outfield lawn! Free admission and parking. Concessions available for purchase.

June 23, 7 p.m.

Ghostbusters (PG-13)

July 28, 7 p.m. Angry Birds (PG)

Visit goodyearbp.com for the complete list of movies this season.

goodyearaz.gov/InFocus