The Hicksville Water District wants to remind residents that in the event of a natural disaster, terrorist attack or unforeseen emergency, their local drinking water supply is protected. Over the last decade, emergency management procedures and plans have been put into place to protect the district's wells and infrastructure. With help from local fire officials, law enforcement and other emergency personnel these plans are constantly being reviewed and updated.

"The events of September 11, 2001 crystallized the need to be vigilant," said Chairman and Commissioner Richard A. Humann. "The Hicksville Water District is constantly improving our emergency management plans. Residents can rest assured that we have taken all the necessary steps to ensure that there will always be a source of safe drinking water."

In addition to working closely with local first responders, the district has established a system of interconnects with our neighboring water suppliers. This system, which is tested annually, can be used in the event of a disruption in service to provide residents with a continuous supply of drinking water.

"A critical element of emergency preparedness is creating a direct and constant dialogue with the community," said Humann. "We encourage anyone with questions or concerns to call us anytime, 24 hours a day."

Local water suppliers have recently updated their Emergency Plans and Vulnerability Assessments to ensure optimum public health and infrastructure protection. Ongoing planning is essential to make sure that water purveyors are prepared to address any emergency situation. Proactive planning and periodic drills are also vital to the well-being of the local community we serve.

The Hicksville Water District is located at 4 Dean Street. For information, questions or comments call 931-0184 or visit www.hicksvillewater.org.

The Hicksville Water District continues to engage in the competitive procurement process to ensure that they receive at or below-market rates for services by qualified professionals. While not required by law to select service providers offering the lowest price, the district makes an effort to reduce the cost of services by engaging in a competitive process, which includes issuing requests for proposals (RFPs), in the interest of prudent stewardship of taxpayer funds.

"We evaluate proposals for engineering, lab services, accounting, and public relation services by obtaining the best possible price or the highest possible quality work" explained Commissioner Karl Schweitzer. Engaging in process will guard against any perception of favoritism, fraud and corruption in the selection of professional advisors."

The board believes that procurement of professional consultants should be based upon the firm's level of skills, knowledge, training and level of services offered by the professional firm. The board does not believe professional firms can be compared based upon the price offered. The board has endeavored to select professional firms based upon experience and knowledge in the area of water supply and environmental issues.

"The board will look to complete its review process by seeking RFPs for Legal Services and Computer Services over the next few months," Schweitzer said.