Residents can vote in health department’s water taste test May 7 in White Plains

Editor’s note: This press release was provided by the Westchester County Health Department.

(White Plains, NY)Join Westchester County Executive George Latimer Tuesday at 11:30 a.m. as he casts his vote for the top tap water in Westchester.

Stop by the Westchester County Department of Health’s tap water contest in White Plains between 10 a.m. and 2:20 p.m. 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.

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, 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,” said Latimer. “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. 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.

About Westchester County

Westchester County, located in the heart of the historic Hudson Valley, covers 500 square miles and has a population of just under a million.  Originally home to Native Americans, who were members of the Lenape tribe, it is today a rich mix of many cultures and landscapes.  The County is a blend of bustling cities, quaint villages and picturesque towns as well as open spaces and a network of beautiful parks. Westchester is made up of 6 cities, 19 towns and 20 villages.  Westchester County is known for top-notch public schools, and a high quality of life.  The County is also an intellectual capital, boasting a highly educated workforce, competitive colleges and universities, Fortune 500 companies, world changing non-profits, and cutting-edge research centers.  Westchester is led by County Executive George Latimer, who took office in January 2018 as the ninth County Executive. Using inclusion and openness as a foreground, Latimer is fighting to make Westchester a destination for all people to live, work and enjoy. Learn more about Westchester County by visiting www.westchestergov.com