Cordova has been recognized for the excellent performance of its drinking water system, officials announced. The Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation selected the City of Cordova Water Department for its exemplary compliance with drinking-water quality regulations and for keeping its operators properly certified during 2019. This is the second consecutive year the department has received the award.
Operators must participate in continuing education to periodically renew their certificates, as well as monitoring the system to repair leaks and perform other maintenance, said Public Works Director Samantha Greenwood. To qualify for the award, the city had to maintain its operator certifications for four quarters and to have no open, unresolved or incurred drinking-water violations during the award year.
“They have a very critical job,” Greenwood said. “No water? Hmm — not good!”
Responsibility for the entire community’s drinking water and waste management falls on the shoulders of the city’s five-man water department, Greenwood said. At a Sept. 16 meeting of Cordova City Council, Councilman Tom Bailer also commended the department for its professional and helpful attitude.
“We’re pretty lucky to have such a dedicated, hard-working crew that keeps our drinking water safe,” Greenwood said. “If you guys happen to see them out on the street, you should give them an attaboy, because they work hard.”
