PRESS RELEASE – NEWS UPDATE
SPANAWAY WATER COMPANY
Friday October 5, 2007 9:00 p.m.

PRECAUTIONARY BOIL WATER NOTICE LIFTED

The thirty water quality samples drawn Thursday, October 4 have all shown no contamination in the water and confirm that the water is safe to drink. Therefore the State Department of Health has authorized us to lift Wednesday’s boil water notice.

The precautionary boil water advisory was issued late Wednesday afternoon approximately two hours after the Company was notified that three of five routine water samples showed evidence of potentially harmful bacteria. Since that time, the Company has taken more than four dozen water samples from throughout the water system, including the ten schools served by the water company. All follow-up samples have shown the absence of any coliform bacteria.

Spanaway Water Company has addressed this issue as a very serious matter and has proceeded cautiously to minimize risk and maximize public safety. We are continuing the investigation into the source of the bacteria in the routine samples taken Tuesday. At this time, the source of the contamination is uncertain, although we are focusing on potential problems with the sampling stations and equipment. The State Department of Health continues to support us in this investigation. There is no need to flush your plumbing, water heater, or change your water filters as a result of this incident.

Throughout this event, we have coordinated our efforts with State Department of Health personnel. The Company appreciates their efforts to assist as this process moved forward.

Spanaway Water Company will continue its long history of routine sampling and should the need ever arise again will notify the public we serve. We have learned much through this process. This event triggered key efforts to improve coordination among water utilities and the County’s Department of Emergency Management, especially with regard to public notification.

Most importantly, we appreciate the understanding and patience of the public. The Company employees truly are concerned about your welfare. We would also like to express our thanks for the assistance of Home Depot, Parkland Light and Water, and Lakewood Water District for their assistance.

Contacts:	Spanaway Water Company	253-531-9024
	Jeff Johnson, Spanaway Water Co.	253-875-5230