Vote For Best Water In Westchester Tuesday

WHITE PLAINS, NY — Who has the best tasting water in Westchester County? Stop by the Westchester County Department of Health’s tap water contest in White Plains between 10 a.m. and 2:20 p.m. Tuesday, May 7 to join the judging. Sample water from around the county and vote for the one that tastes the best. Last year’s champion was Yonkers.

County Executive George Latimer will be on hand at 11:30 a.m. to cast his vote for the top tap water in Westchester.

Held to highlight the quality of public water supplies during National Drinking Water Week, this year’s blind taste test will take place in front of the Michaelian Office Building, 148 Martine Avenue in White Plains. The water supply with the most votes wins and will compete regionally. The rain date is Wednesday, same time and place.

“This tap water contest is a fun way to remind residents that the county health department works hard year-round to protect this important natural resource,” Latimer said. “Come cast your vote and meet some of the staff who work to assure the quality and safety of our water supply.”

In 1974, Congress first enacted the Safe Drinking Water Act to protect public health by regulating public water systems, according to a spokeswoman. The federal Environmental Protection Agency sets legal limits for more than 90 contaminants in public drinking water supplies. These limits, as well as water testing schedules and methods that water systems must follow, are enforced in Westchester by the county Health Department. Water suppliers and the county Health Department sample the public waters routinely, and all contest participants meet all water quality standards. Private wells are unregulated and private well owners are responsible for the safety of their water. Bottled water is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration, officials said.

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