Medina County sources its water from Wadsworth, which draws from 11 distinct wells across the region, including the newer Chippewa well established in 2012. Seven wells are deep rock formations located in the southeast corner between Wide Street and Manley Road, while four are sand and gravel wells near the soccer fields and airport in the southwest area. The county receives water through Wadsworth lines at the SR 94 city limits and distributes it through county-owned mains.

For questions about this report or your water service, contact Dave Ling, Water Distribution Systems Supervisor, at (330)723-9585.

COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION
The Medina County Board of Commissioners holds regular meetings every Tuesday at 9:30 a.m. at the County Administration Building, 144 N. Broadway, Medina. Meeting information is available on the Medina County Calendar at http://www.co.medina.oh.us/calendar.html. Water concerns can be addressed to Dave Bazilevich, Superintendent of Treatment, at (330) 723-9585.

HEALTH INFORMATION
Certain populations may be more vulnerable to water contaminants than the general public. Immunocompromised individuals, cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, HIV/AIDS patients, elderly persons, and infants may face higher risks from infections. These individuals should consult their healthcare providers about drinking water safety. Guidelines from the EPA/CDC on reducing infection risks are available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline at (800) 426-4791.

POTENTIAL WATER CONTAMINANTS
To ensure safety, the EPA establishes regulations limiting contaminant levels in public water systems, while FDA regulations govern bottled water. All drinking water sources may contain small amounts of certain contaminants, which doesn't necessarily indicate health risks. Water sources (both tap and bottled) include rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, reservoirs, springs, and wells that may collect various substances:

• Microbial Contaminants: Viruses and bacteria from sewage facilities, septic systems, agricultural operations, or wildlife
• Inorganic Contaminants: Naturally occurring or human-activity derived salts and metals from urban runoff, wastewater, oil/gas production, mining, or farming
• Pesticides and Herbicides: From agriculture, urban runoff, and residential uses
• Organic Chemical Contaminants: Industrial process byproducts, petroleum production, gas stations, stormwater runoff, and septic systems
• Radioactive Contaminants: Natural or resulting from oil/gas production and mining

For more information about contaminants and health effects, call the EPA's Safe Drinking Water Hotline at (800) 426-4791.

LEAD AWARENESS
Elevated lead levels pose serious health risks, particularly for pregnant women and young children. While Medina County provides high-quality water, plumbing components can contribute lead. After water sits for several hours, flush your tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using it for drinking or cooking. If concerned, have your water tested. Information is available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline.

Common Questions About Utility Rate Increases

1. Why are water charges increasing?
   The combination of affordable natural gas from fracking and renewable energy adoption has reduced revenue streams that previously subsidized customer costs. While operating and maintenance expenses continue, the loss of wholesale energy subsidies requires adjustments to ensure reliable service continues.
2. How were rate increases determined?
   Independent consultants evaluated service costs and market changes to recommend necessary adjustments. These increases will be implemented gradually to minimize financial impact on customers, after thorough examination of all possible alternatives.
3. Why weren't previous increases sufficient?
   Earlier rate adjustments addressed rising coal costs (over $16 million annually since 2013). Current increases respond to approximately $12 million in annual revenue losses due to reduced demand from renewable energy adoption and natural gas competition. Even after increases, rates remain among the lowest statewide.
4. Will more increases follow?
   This represents the first in a series of planned adjustments over coming years. Annual evaluations will determine precise requirements to meet bond obligations, though even with future increases, residents will pay less than most neighboring communities.
5. What is budget billing?
   Budget billing allows payment of equal monthly installments based on a 12-month average. Eligible customers must have continuous service at their current address for at least one year with good payment history.

For additional questions about water service, billing, or quality concerns, contact customer service at the provided numbers or visit the municipal office during business hours.