San Benito neighbors regain access to clean drinking water after two year wait
HOLLISTER, Calif. (KION) - Clean drinking water has been restored to people in San Benito County, after not having access for it for two years.
In 2022, it was announced that the Best Roads Mutual Water Company was relying on bottled water for its customers. This was announced after its two water wells failed due to water quality and water supply issues.
High amounts of contaminants like arsenic were found in water, according to the Environmental Working Group by the California State Water Resources Control Board. If consumed, these contaminants could potentially lead to cancer.
Barbara Taddeo has lived in San Benito County for 20 years.
She has a farm where she takes care of many cats, a pony and a garden. She said she was scared for herself and her pets when it came to the water in her pipes.
"I'm low income and a senior and there was no way I could afford a whole house filtration system," Taddeo said.
Sunnyslope Water District used a $2.2 million grant from the state to work on a water tank and pipeline project to reach these customers, according to the California Department of Water Resources.
"It was total relief," Taddeo said.
She reports that the water is now running clear and clean.
"Sunnyslope Water quality reports are publicly available," Drew Lander, Sunnyslope District general manager, said. "Our water supply has been consistent, resilient to recent droughts and excellent quality for a long time."
He also said that maintenance is a weekly task.
"We're so happy to have Sunnyslope Water now," Taddeo said.
Taddeo said she lost two cats and a pony due to cancer, and she believes it is connected to the contaminated water supply.
"I know it attributed to her death and that's sad, especially since I couldn't afford filtered water," Taddeo said.
She also said that it caused the roses and fruits in her garden to die.
"It killed plants," Taddeo recalled. "I mean, I couldn't grow my vegetables...That's how bad the water was."
