WHAT’S ON TAP IN THE HELIX WATER DISTRICT?

By Miriam Raftery

July 9, 2019 (La Mesa) – Ratepayers in the Helix Water District may want to be aware of several newsworthy matters including a new report on water quality, a July 25 Helix Water Chat on water supply, and upcoming votes on water rates. 

First, the good news: The district’s annual water quality report is out—and the water quality meets all federal and state drinking water standards.  (View the full report.)

Second, on July 25th, the district will host its next Helix Water Chat from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the district office, 7811 University Ave., La  Mesa. A presentation on Helix’s water supply will be presented on where our water comes from, a history of infrastructure projects, challenges posed by climate change and population growth, and a portfolio approach to water resources management that may be the best path to sustainability.

The district is moving forward on exploring feasibility of the East County Advanced Water Purification Project,  in partnership with El Cajon, the Padre Dam Municicpal Water District and the County of San Diego. Helix board members voted  4-1 (with Dan McMillan opposed) to fund an additional $2.35 million for their share. Supervisors will vote July 10 on the project aimed at increasing local water supplies.  

On August 7, the Helix board will vote on approving new water rates, which would take effect on the January bill for water used in November and December. The exact amount of the proposed rates have not yet been set but will be in the agenda released at least three days before the meeting.