An important milestone has been achieved on the road to recovery for the Monterey community of Pajaro. All Do Not Drink Orders have been lifted. The Sunny Mesa Water System in conjunction with the State Water Resources Control Board and Monterey County Health Department has canceled the Do Not Drink Order. This follows the lifting of the Do Not Drink Order for the Pajaro water system on April 7.
On March 12, 2023, residents were informed of unsafe water. Since then, Sunny Mesa Water System has been hauling water from a California Department of Public Health-licensed water hauler to provide uninterrupted water supply. Sunny Mesa has inspected facilities, cleaned, repaired, replaced affected equipment, and flushed the water in the source and distribution system. The Sunny Mesa Water System in conjunction with the State Water Resources Control Board and the Monterey County Health Department collected multiple bacteriological samples from the source and the distribution system, all showing absence of bacteria. Additionally, the source and 2 distribution sites were tested for general mineral quality, general physical quality, inorganic contaminants, synthetic organic compounds, volatile organic compounds, radiological contaminants, and disinfection byproducts. The results of all samples verify that the water quality meets applicable drinking water standards.
The California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) continues to lead a statewide response to aid Californians recovering from widespread storm impacts. Following a Presidential Major Disaster Declaration, FEMA assistance is available to affected communities. For more information and how to apply, go to: https://wp.me/pd8T7h-82o