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About Secondary Disinfection

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1. Why are we adding anything to our water?

The Fraser Health Authority mandated that a secondary disinfection be added to the City’s water system. The Fraser Health Authority has been closely monitoring the City to ensure that the drinking water is being treated by an acceptable secondary disinfection as a condition of our operating permit. This was as a result of the 2010 Boil Water Notice Report when the water utility was under private ownership.

2. Does the City have primary water disinfection?

Neighbouring jurisdictions’ water systems are different than White Rock’s as they require both primary and secondary disinfection and therefore different treatment processes are more appropriate. As White Rock has a groundwater source (confined aquifer/deep wells) it only requires secondary disinfection. The deep wells provide a natural first layer of protection against microbial contamination.

3. What is secondary disinfectant?

Secondary disinfection provides long-lasting water treatment as the water moves through pipes to consumers. It also maintains water quality by killing potentially harmful organisms. Both monochloramine and chlorine are secondary disinfectants.

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Addressing Naturally Occurring Arsenic & Manganese

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1. How is the City going to address naturally occurring arsenic and manganese in its water supply?

Our water supply contains naturally occurring arsenic and manganese, which is why the City is working towards building arsenic and manganese treatment plants.

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Development Services

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1. Do I need a permit to cut down a tree on my property?

The City of White Rock has a Tree Protection Bylaw which outlines specific lands within the City where a tree cutting permit is required. Please refer to the Tree Protection Bylaw to determine whether your property is affected.

2. What is the zoning of my property?

To find out the zoning of your property, use the City's WROMS Online Mapping System to search your property by civic address.

3. What can I build on my property?

To determine what you can build on your property, you first need to know what your property is zoned. Once you have obtained the zoning of your property, the City's Zoning Bylaw (PDF) will provide you with information on what you can build.

4. What information is required to submit a residential building permit application?

A list of the required information to be submitted could be obtained from City Hall located at

White Rock City Hall
15322 Buena Vista Avenue
White Rock, BC V4B 1Y6

 or by downloading the Guide for Applying for a Building Permit (PDF).

5. How do I apply for a business license?

Information about obtaining a business license can be found on the Business Licenses page.

6. How can I pay my parking ticket?

Payments may be made in person, by mail or by phone. Tickets can be paid in cash, by cheque, money order, credit card or debit card. For more information on how to pay your parking ticket please visit the Parking Services page.

7. How can I report a bylaw complaint?

To report a bylaw complaint, please call 604-541-2139 during business hours and 604-541-2146 after business hours and on weekends.

8. Where can I obtain a marriage license?

Marriage licenses are issued by the Provincial Government, for more information visit the British Columbia Marriage License page.

9. Where can I obtain a fishing license?

Fresh water fishing licenses are issued through the Provincial government, for more information please visit the Freshwater Fishing E-Licence page. Tidal water fishing licenses are issued through the Federal government, for more information please visit the Fisheries and Oceans Canada page.

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Engineering

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1. When I smell gas or suspect a gas leak, who do I contact?

Immediately contact Fortis Gas at 800-663-9911 (24 Hour Toll-Free Line) and the Fire Department at 911.

2. Who do I contact to report a power outage or an electrical emergency? How do I find out the status of a power outage?

To report a power outage and to check the status of a power outage please contact BC Hydro at 888-769-3766.

3. As a resident of White Rock how can I dispose of my green/yard waste? What is considered yard waste?

Green Can

If you live in a single family dwelling or a multi family unit with 6 or less residences that is currently on a residential curbside collection route, White Rock offers weekly pickup of your yard waste and food scraps. You have the option of putting your yard waste in Kraft bags or in containers clearly labeled with City-provided Green Can decals. Both the decals and Kraft bags are available at any City building.

Please note: containers must not be larger than 110 litres in size (4 cubic feet) and should not weigh more than 50 pounds. when full. There is a limit of 10 bags and/or bundles per residence. Yard waste or food waste in plastic bags will not be collected. Yard waste is also accepted at any landfill. For more information regarding the yard waste collection program please visit the Green Bin Program page.

Acceptable items for the Green Can includes:

• All leftovers and plate scrapings
• Bones
• Bread
• Coffee grounds in their used paper filters
• Dairy
• Eggshells
• Fish
• Food-soiled paper towels
• Fruit
• Grains
• Meat
• Paper plates
• Pasta
• Pizza delivery boxes
• Poultry
• Seafood
• Tea leaves and tea bags
• Vegetables
• Any kind of cooked or uncooked food scraps

Yard Waste

Yard waste includes:

• Flowers
• Grass clippings
• Hedge pruning.
• Leaves
• Tree
• Plant material

Trees and branches will also be collected provided they are tied in bundles and don’t exceed three feet in length. Individual branches must not exceed three inches in diameter. Rocks, dirt, stumps, sod and animal feces will not be accepted.

4. I have just completed a house renovation, will the City pick up the construction material?

The City of White Rock does not pick up construction material. Residents must make their own arrangements to have construction material taken to a landfill:

• Aldergrove Transfer Station located at:
  1070 to 272nd Street
  Aldergrove
  Phone: 604-856-3225
• Surrey Transfer Station located at:
  9770 to 192 Street
  Surrey
  Phone: 604-521-1715
• Vancouver Landfill located at:
  5400 to 72nd Street
  Delta
  Phone: 604-873-3000
  
  

Please contact the disposal facility to ensure they will accept the items presented for disposal.

5. Who do I contact to find out more information on boat moorage at the White Rock Pier?

Nearby moorage is available at Crescent Beach Marina located a 10-minute drive away from White Rock.

 

6. How can I get Universal Transverse Mercator coordinates or latitude / longitude for a property in White Rock?

For more information regarding the Universal Transverse Mercator (UTM) coordinates and the latitude / longitude of a property please contact the Engineering and Municipal Operations Department at 604-541-2181.

7. Where can I find the location and coordinates for the Integrated Survey Monuments?

For more information please contact the Engineering and Municipal Operations Department at 604-541-2181.

8. Can you fix a streetlight that is out?

Contact the Engineering and Municipal Operations Department at 604-541-2181 or by email operations@whiterockcity.ca. The staff will need specifics on the location or address, stand-alone streetlights are serviced by City crews. Streetlights on poles with overhead wires are serviced by BC Hydro. City staff will report directly to BC Hydro the service requests for streetlights in the City that need to be serviced by them.

9. How do I report a traffic signal that isn't working properly?

To report a traffic signal that isn't working properly please contact the Engineering and Municipal Operations Department at 604-541-2181.

10. There is a tree obstructing driver sight lines at an intersection, who should I call?

To report a tree obstructing driver sight lines please contact the Engineering and Municipal Operations Department at 604-541-2181.

11. Can I have a driveway access to the lane behind my property or from the street?

For more information regarding driveway crossings, resident only parking, and loading inquiries contact the Engineering and Municipal Operations Department at 604-541-2181,

12. How can I find out how much traffic uses a certain street?

For more information regarding how much traffic uses a certain street please contact the Engineering and Municipal Operations Department at 604-541-2181.

13. Does the City of White Rock have a traffic calming policy?

Yes the City of White Rock does have a traffic calming policy, please view the traffic calming policy (PDF) for more information regarding procedures.

14. I'm digging on my property and need to know where my sanitary / storm sewer or other utility connections are located, who do I call?

Use White Rock's Online Mapping System (WROMS) to discover White Rock property information through an easy-to-use map interface. Launch WROMS to look up property information like:

• Sanitary service approximate location and depth
• Storm service approximate location and depth
  
  

The City of White Rock's web-based mapping, "WROMS" is a compilation of geographic information drawn together from a variety of sources, historic and current, and does not necessarily include everything or anything for a particular purpose. The City of White Rock assumes no obligation or liability for the use of WROMS by any person and makes no representations or promises regarding the completeness or accuracy of "WROMS" or its fitness for a particular purpose.

For more information please call:

• Call Before You Dig, BC 1 Call 1-800-474-6886
• Water service inquiries should be directed to EPCOR 604-536-6112
  
  

Contact other utilities such as Telus, BC Hydro or Fortis Gas respectively.

15. How do I go about getting a refund of my damage deposit?

An inspector must inspect the work before a refund can be given. Once all restoration work has been completed (driveway paved and boulevard landscaped) please contact the Engineering and Municipal Operations Department at 604-541-2181 to schedule an inspection.

16. How do I report a private contractor or resident making changes to the City Boulevard, illegal filling, or soil removal?

To report an issue please contact the Engineering and Municipal Operations Department at 604-541-2181.

17. I need to place a construction bin on the City Boulevard or at curb side, do I require a permit?

Yes, approval is required. A Right-of-Way Use permit is required, please contact the Engineering and Municipal Operations Department for more information regarding alterations or improvements at 604-541-2181.

18. I want to create a parking area on the boulevard in front of my house, do I require a permit?

Yes, approval is required for any alterations or improvements to the City Boulevard. A Right-of-Way Use Permit is required, please contact the Engineering and Municipal Operations Department at 604-541-2181.

19. I am a contractor needing specifications for installation of offsite services, where can I find them?

Construction specifications and Master Municipal Construction Documents (MMCD) can be obtained from Support Services Unlimited located at
Number 302,
1107 Homer Street,
Vancouver, V6B 2Y1,
Phone: 604-681-0295. 

For supplementary specifications and detailed drawings may be obtained from the Engineering and Municipal Operations Department, for more information please contact them at 604-541-2181.

20. What is the right-of-way on my property for?

For specific details and/or copies of legal documents contact the New Westminster Land Titles Office. The Land Titles Office is located at: 

Land Title and Survey Authority of British Columbia
New Westminster Land Title Office
Anvil Centre OfficeTower
Suite 500 - 11 Eighth Street
New Westminster, BC V3M 3N7

If entering from the parking garage, use the Office Tower elevators to access the Land Title Office on the Fifth Floor. From street level, use the Eighth Street entrance. 

Phone: 604-660-8141

For general information contact the Engineering and Municipal Operations Department at 604-541-2181. Rights-of-ways are areas where the City has the right to construct and maintain City services on private property. Easements pertain to agreements between 2 private landowners.

21. My servicing is now completed and I would like a refund of my bond / reduction on the letter of credit, what do I need to do?

Please contact the Engineering and Municipal Operations Department at 604-541-2181 to schedule an inspection.

22. I'm looking at subdividing my lot, is there somewhere I can get a rough, ballpark estimate on servicing costs?

All services are estimated individually. We cannot provide figures before an application is made to the Planning Department. For further assistance please call the Engineering and Municipal Operations Department a 604-581-2181.

23. I want to install or rebuild a retaining wall along a City boulevard. Do I require a permit?

Yes, approval is required for any alterations/improvements to the City Boulevard. A Right-of-Way Use Permit is required. Contact the Engineering and Municipal Operations Department at 604-541-2181.

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Facts About Monochloramine

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1. Is monochloramine safe?

Yes, monochloramine is used safely in Canada and the United States. It has also been used in the Merklin reservoir since 2010 after the E.coli incident occurred when the water utility was privately owned. As a result, since 2010 White Rock residents who get their water from the Merklin reservoir have been enjoying drinking water treated by monochloramine.

Monochloramine approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Health Canada, and the World Health Organization among others. Since the 1930s nearly 100 million North Americans have been enjoying drinking water treated with monochloramine including Maui, Boston, San Francisco, Portland, Toronto, Ottawa, Washington D.C., Tampa Bay, Pasco, Fort Lauderdale, Waterloo, Edmonton, Saskatoon, Victoria, Abbotsford and Mission, BC.

It also lasts longer in the distribution system, so it does a better job killing bacteria in areas of the water distribution system that are near the end of the pipes, or areas that do not have as high of flow as other areas. Monochloramine-treated water does not have as strong of a taste as chlorine-treated water.

2. What will the impact of monochloramine be?

Monochloramine does not react to manganese the way that chlorine does. As the water moves through our distribution system, you will see an improvement to the aesthetic issues that the community has experienced such as issues around colour, turbidity (cloudiness), taste and odour.

3. What are the long-term health effects of monochloramine?

According to the United States Centre for Disease Control: “Current studies indicate that using or drinking water with small amounts of monochloramine does not cause harmful health effects and provides protection against waterborne disease outbreaks.”

It is approved by Health Canada, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the World Health Organization amongst others. Since the 1930s nearly 100 million North Americans have been enjoying drinking water treated with monochloramine including: Maui, Boston, San Francisco, Portland, Toronto, Ottawa, Washington D.C., Tampa Bay, Pasco, Fort Lauderdale, Waterloo, Edmonton, Saskatoon, Victoria, Abbotsford and Mission, BC.

These studies looked at monochloramine levels of less than 50 milligrams per litre in drinking water. The Canadian standards for monochloramine levels are up to 3 millograms per litre in drinking water and White Rock levels will be around 1 milligrams per litre.

4. What is the amount of ammonia that will be added and will there be an impact on my health?

The amount of ammonia added until now is 0.05 milligrams per litre. Health Canada's Guideline for Canadian Drinking Water for chloramine is not to exceed 3 mg/L; therefore, the amount the City is using is low. Furthermore, once ammonia is introduced into the system it will react with chlorine and form monochloramine. There are no health implications for monochloramine under the 3 milligrams per litre concentration level set by Health Canada.

5. Does using monochloramine increase the cost of water?

There will be minimal budget implications because the City already has the pumps for the ammonia application. The cost of the addition of approximately 0.1 milligrams per litre would be a very small addition to the operation cost. In addition, there should be cost savings when the staff time flushing in areas of complaint are reduced and the eliminating the additional flushing of the entire system.

6. Do home water softeners remove monochloramine?

Most water softeners are not designed to remove monochloramine.

7. Does bottle water have monochloramine?

Normally it does not. Bottled water could contain monochloramine if the company uses water supplied with monochloramine in its water source.

8. What does chloraminated water taste like?

Monochloramine itself is colourless, tasteless and odourless. In comparison to chlorinated water, chloraminated water does not have a strong chlorine taste.

9. If monochloramine is such an effective disinfectant, why is it not used in every community?

While the public often considers all drinking water to be the same, the local raw water and water distribution conditions determine the best option for each particular community. Both chlorine and monochloramine have their own advantages and disadvantages. Given sufficient contact time, monochloramine is as effective as chlorine in destroying bacteria. While chlorine works more quickly, it does not last as long in the water as monochloramine.

The City is utilizing chloramination, as the water from the aquifer does not require primary treatment. The disinfectant is added to ensure the quality of the water is maintained throughout the distribution system.

Since the 1930s nearly 100 million North Americans have been enjoying drinking water treated with monochloramine including Maui, Boston, San Francisco, Portland, Toronto, Ottawa, Washington D.C., Tampa Bay, Pasco, Fort Lauderdale, Waterloo, Edmonton, Saskatoon, Victoria, Abbotsford and Mission, BC.

10. Is monochloramine safe for swimming pools?

Yes. Your pool still requires a free-chlorine residual to delay algae and bacterial growth. Test kits measure free-chlorine residuals and can be used with confidence. Contact your local pool supply store for details.

11. Will monochloramine make my water clear?

As the water moves through our distribution system, the aesthetic impacts from the chlorine reacting with the naturally occurring manganese will be reduced.

Fraser Health Authority has approved both chlorine and monochloramine as a secondary disinfectant.

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How the City Blends Its Water

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1. How is the City able to blend its water?

Currently, the City can blend its water in two ways:

• Distribution System
• Reservoirs

2. How does the city blend water with a distribution system?

The system operates using pumps, which create a pressure in the distribution system.

The Certified Water Operators have the ability to set the pressure at wells 4, 5, and at the reservoirs. Depending on water demand and other factors, water will be provided into the distribution system at different locations, where it encounters water from another source and is mixed. For example, if the pressure set point at the Oxford reservoir is higher than well Numbers 4 and 5 and the Merklin reservoir, and the demand is low, then the Oxford water could be providing water to the majority of the system and will mix with the minimal amount of water provided by the other sources.

3. How does the city blend water with reservoirs?

The Merklin reservoir has two wells that pump water into the reservoir, where the water is blended and sent into distribution by one pipe. The Oxford reservoir has three wells that pump water into the reservoir, where the water is blended and sent into distribution by one pipe. This was not previously possible, as the Oxford reservoir was not constructed. Now that the Oxford reservoir is constructed, the water from those wells can be mixed.

With the addition of the two new reservoirs, the wells at each reservoir can be adjusted to pump at different flow rates into the reservoir where the water is blended. For example, at the Merklin reservoir, there are two well pumps that pump into the large reservoir and the water is mixed.

Our Certified Water Operators have the ability to control each well pump. This includes turning a pump off and pumping from the other well, for example, running Well A at 20% and Well B at 80%. So the majority of the water in the reservoir is from Well B.

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Human Resources

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1. What positions are available at the city of White Rock?

The City hires permanent, temporary and casual staff for positions in all of the City's Departments. Current opening are listed on the Job Opportunities page.

2. How do I apply for a position with the City?

Interested parties can submit their application (in most cases a cover letter and resume) by email to Human Resources, by fax at 604-541-2158, or in person at: 

City Hall
15322 Buena Vista Avenue
White Rock, BC V4B 1Y6

Email submission is highly recommended if you wish to receive electronic confirmation that your application has been received by Human Resources.

3. Can I submit a general application?

It is highly recommended that interested applicants apply to a specific advertised opening in Job Opportunities. While general applications are accepted, applying to a specific opening will allow candidates to better tailor their submission to the requirements outlined in the job advertisement.

4. Do I need an Application Form to apply for a career with the City?

There is no standard application form and in most cases a cover letter and resume are all that are requested in order to apply for a career. However, some advertised opportunities will request a supplemental form be completed and this requirement will be outlined in the job postings.

5. What are the minimum requirements for a career with the City?

All City positions have a minimum educational requirement of Grade 12 completion, or equivalent. Additional position requirements will differ by position and will be detailed in individual job postings.

6. Do I need to submit a copy of my certifications or credentials when applying for a job?

Please refer to the job posting for required application documents. If shortlisted or considered further in the recruitment process, applicants will be asked to produce applicable certification originals prior to an offer of employment.

7. Who do I direct general employment inquiries to?

You can reach a member of the Human Resources team by calling 604-541-2158 or email Human Resources.

8. Who should I address my cover letter to?

Please address your submission attention to:

Human Resources Department
15322 Buena Vista Avenue
White Rock, BC V4B 1Y6

9. How will I know if I have been shortlisted for an interview or testing?

Shortlisted individuals will be contacted by telephone in the weeks following the posting deadline. The status of on-going recruitment is available on the Job Opportunities page.

10. Should I call Human Resources to follow up on my application?

While we thank you for your enthusiasm, due to a high volume of inquiries, we kindly ask that applicants check the status of on-going recruitments (available on the Job Opportunities web page) rather than inquire with the Human Resources Department. Again, candidates who email their application will receive electronic confirmation of their submittal.

11. Once shortlisted, what can I expect from the City's recruitment process?

Depending on the recruitment, the process may vary from a single interview to involve multiple stages including, preliminary and secondary interviews, skills testing, physical capability assessments, and more.

Applicants invited to participate in the recruitment process will be advised upon initial contact of recruitment process details.

12. Do I need a cover letter to apply for a position at the City?

A cover letter, or letter of introduction, is recommended. A cover letter allows for applicants to provide a general introduction to their resume and to highlight why they are qualified for the position to which they are applying.

Please address your submission attention to:

Human Resources Department
15322 Buena Vista Avenue
White Rock, BC V4B 1Y6

13. How are applications assessed?

Applications are assessed according to position requirements as advertised. Please refer to Job Opportunities.

14. Can I get feedback from Human Resources on my unsuccessful application?

While we would enjoy the opportunity to meet with applicants, unfortunately Human Resources is unable to offer this service at this point in time. Applicants may however find great career information resources on the Internet and may wish to contact local employment resource centers for advice.

15. I have applied for several positions with the City of White Rock and haven't been hired. What can I do to improve my chances of finding employment with the City?

In order to improve chances on gaining employment with the City, the following is suggested:

•  Review the job posting multiple times and ensure you meet the minimum qualifications required.
•  Ensure your submission outlines clearly how you meet the necessary qualifications and requested experience.
•  Confirm that your submission includes all documents requested in the job posting to which you are applying (e.g. copy of first aid certification, driving record, etc.). Where additional documentation is requested beyond a cover letter and resume, only complete applications are considered.

For more information, please contact Human Resources at 604-541-2158.

16. How long is my resume held on file?

Submissions are kept on file for 12 months from the date of receipt. For more information, please contact Human Resources at 604-541-2158.

17. Does the City require potential candidates to undergo a Police Information Check?

This requirement varies by position and will be outlined when required in the job posting. For more information, please contact Human Resources at 604-541-2158.

18. When are seasonal career opportunities advertised?

Typically, seasonal career opportunities (those occurring between the May and September period) are advertised in mid-February to early March. Candidates are advised to check the City's Job Opportunities page on a weekly basis during this period.

19. Does the City accept applications for Career Firefighters?

The City only accepts applications for Career Firefighter positions during an active recruitment period. Please check the Job Opportunities regularly for updates regarding Fire recruitment.

20. Where do I go to apply for Employment Insurance?

Information on Employment Insurance is available on the Service Canada website or by contacting 800-206-7218. 

21. How do I apply for a Social Insurance Card?

Information on Employment Insurance is available on the Service Canada website or by contacting 800‑206‑7218.

22. Does the City offer CO-OP opportunities for post-secondary students?

The City participates where possible in CO-OP programs. Please contact the Human Resources Department at 604-541-2158 or email Human Resources for more information.

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I'm Having Issues with My Water

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1. Why does my water look cloudy or discoloured?

The City’s water contains naturally occurring manganese. When chlorine and manganese mix, the esthetics of the water may become cloudy. Although the water aesthetics may change, the City’s water is still safe to drink.

2. What do I do if I have cloudy or discoloured water?

If you are experiencing cloudy or discoloured water:

• Remove aerators (screens) from taps
• Turn on your cold water on the tap located nearest your property's water meter / shut off and let it run for a couple of minutes until it runs clear
  • If the water does not clear within 5 to 10 minutes, wait two hours and try again
• Place the aerators back on the taps
  
  

Should you still have cloudy or discoloured water, please call the Operations Department at 604-541-2181 or email the Water Department.

3. Who can I contact if I’m having an issue?

The City of White Rock wants to hear all questions and concerns. Please direct these to City staff depending on the questions. Operations will be happy to take your call on water at 604-541-2181 or if you have a query about billing, please call Finance at 604-541-2100.

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Information on the Acquisition & Process

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1. Why did the City buy the water system?

In 2013, city staff and council began this consideration. The City developed a business case, heard from members of the community, and held a public meeting in June 2015 where residents expressed significant support for the idea of an acquisition.

As a result of that process, the City of White Rock signed a negotiated agreement with the private company to acquire the water utility from them. The City took ownership of the operations on October 30, 2015.

This was an important milestone for the community, as it means all utility fees are now reinvested directly into the community. Furthermore, the City also has direct control of the water system, which allows the City to accommodate growth and make upgrades to the existing infrastructure as required.

2. How much the water system cost?

The City of White Rock purchased the water utility from EPCOR for $13.4 million. Originally, the city had paid a $14 million advanced payment, which was an approximation based on the service provided at that time. After 2 years of negotiations, the City of White Rock and EPCOR came to an agreement on the $13.4 million.

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Joining Metro Vancouver's Water System

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1. Are we joining Metro Vancouver’s water system?

No. One of the reasons is because Metro Vancouver’s water system uses chlorine as a secondary disinfectant. Unfortunately, chlorine will react with the manganese that has built up in our water distribution system for decades, as the previous water utility providers did not address the naturally occurring manganese from the source (aquifer), which has built up in the 80 kilometres of piping in the system.

When chlorine reacts with manganese, the result is discoloured water. We have found the level of discoloration is simply unacceptable

2. Why won’t the City just turn on the connection?

It is not feasible for any connection to the Metro Vancouver water system to be made before 2019 at the earliest.

3. How much would it cost to join Metro Vancouver’s system?

The City would also need to purchase property, build a pump station on Surrey property at South Surrey Athletic Park, and construct distribution lines to get the water to both Oxford and Merklin reservoirs and pay Metro Vancouver for the cost of the water.

Metro Vancouver would need to perform upstream improvements to their system to meet the additional population demand and the City would be required to pay for these improvements as well as the water. The City would also have no control over replacement and expansion plans and would also be responsible for a percentage of any capital expenditures for any upgrades or expansions throughout the system in any jurisdiction in Metro Vancouver.

Joining Metro Vancouver would require ongoing operating payments by City of White Rock to Metro Vancouver of approximately $1.5 million dollars each year. The approximate $25 million cost difference when looking at joining the Metro Vancouver water system and maintaining our own system.

4. What benefit does White Rock get out of owning a utility?

Acquiring the water utility gives White Rock control over the future of the City’s water supply, including the ability to make quick decisions to address/enhance the City’s water quality.

5. Where can I find out more information?

Find out more about the City and the Greater Vancouver investigation into options to receive the water supply from the Greater Vancouver Water District Public Release - City of White Rock Water Supply Analysis Reports (PDF).

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Management / Operations

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1. How will the City operate the water system?

The City of White Rock is the sole owner and operator of this facility. The City runs the day-to-day operations and ensures the quality and safety of the water supply.

To do this, the City has taken some key steps to ensure it has the expertise to provide the residents of White Rock quality water. For example, since taking ownership of the water utility, the City has:

• Applied for provincial and federal infrastructure grants not available to private companies to address naturally occurring arsenic and manganese in the City’s water
• Hired an international award winning Utilities Manager with extensive experience working with water utilities and providing award winning clean water
• Partnered with RES'EAU WaterNET, a research organization out of UBC that is able to tap into a vast network of experts nationally and internationally who can help us achieve our goals as we move towards building the arsenic and manganese treatment processes
  
  

The City will operate the treatment processes, prepare and execute capital and maintenance plans, read water meters, perform water quality testing, and prepare annual reports

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Secondary Disinfection Change

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1. Why did the City switch from chlorine to monochloramine?

We have tried chlorine as a secondary disinfectant option at the Oxford reservoir but the chlorine is reacting with the naturally occurring manganese causing taste, turbidity (cloudiness), colour, and odour issues. While the water is safe, to control these aesthetic issues, it is necessary to switch to monochloramine as the secondary disinfection option.

Treating the Oxford reservoir with monochloramine will align it with the treatment process of the Merklin reservoir allowing for a uniform secondary disinfection process common in most jurisdictions.

2. Why did the City initially decide to use chlorine?

While experts recommended the use of monochloramine, a group of concerned citizens advocated for the use of chlorine. Council listened to the group’s concerns and directed staff to develop a plan to use chlorine as the secondary disinfection option. The water is still safe but the chlorine is reacting with the naturally occurring manganese in our pipes and is causing taste, turbidity (cloudiness), colour, and odour issues.

3. Why was monochloramine not used from the outset?

Both chlorine and monochloramine are effective treatment options and approved by the Fraser Health Authority. While experts recommended the use of monochloramine, a group of concerned citizens advocated for the use of chlorine. Council listened to the group’s concerns and directed staff to develop a plan to use chlorine as the secondary disinfection option.

4. Has Fraser Health Authority mandated and/or approved the use of monochloramine over chlorine?

Fraser Health Authority has approved both chlorine and monochloramine as a secondary disinfectant.

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Water Main Flushing Program

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1. What is water main flushing?

Water main flushing is the process used to clean water mains. Water system valves are turned off to isolate a section of the water main. Water is then flushed through in one direction at high speed to produce a scouring action that removes built-up sediment. Clean water is always used to flush water mains. After flushing, the water exits through an attachment to a fire hydrant.

2. What are water mains?

Water mains are underground pipes that carry water from the reservoir to your street.

3. Why are you "flushing" the water mains?

We clean water mains to improve water quality by removing sediment. Water travels slowly through the mains, causing sediment to settle at the bottom and build up over time. A change in direction or an increase in the rate of flow of the water in the mains (e.g., due to water main breaks, or hydrant use for firefighting) can disturb the sediment and discolour the water.

4. How do you clean the water mains during flushing?

We flush most of the water mains by forcing water through them at high velocity and discharging it through hydrants. This water flow scours and cleans sediment from inside the mains. We leave the hydrant open until the water runs clear. The flushed water will be de-chlorinated before entering the catch basin.

5. How long does it take to flush the water mains on each street?

Flushing takes approximately 30 minutes to an hour. We require all taps to be turned off and no toilets flushed during the flushing time as indicated in the notice to residents for individual households to ensure that the work is done properly.

6. How will I know when you are flushing water mains on my street?

We will notify you via letters delivered to each residence prior to commencement of work. The letter will contain instructions and information on the program. If you live in a multi-family complex, staff will contact your property manager/landlord on when the work will begin and will include information on how long it will take.

7. Can I use my water when you are flushing the water mains on my street?

Do not use your water or flush your toilet when we are cleaning the water mains on your street. Using your water or flushing your toilet could draw sediment into the water pipes of your building, into water filters, washing machines, hot water tanks, etc. Turn off any time-delayed water systems, such as dishwashers, coffee makers, and lawn sprinklers.

8. My in-home medical equipment requires water to operate. What should I do?

Consider rescheduling the use of this equipment before or after the water main flushing. Make sure the cold water tap runs clear before connecting to the in-home water-dependent medical equipment.

9. What do I do if I need water during the time that I am not supposed to use water?

As a precautionary measure you may store a sufficient reserve of potable water for use during the flushing hours.

10. I have time delayed appliances or water conditioning systems. What should I do?

Please turn off all time delayed water line appliances during the flushing period. If you have water conditioning systems such as water softener or filtration system, you may want to shut off the water supply valve to these systems, until after the water main flushing is completed.

11. Is the Fire Department aware of the water main flushing?

Yes. The City of White Rock Fire Department is informed of the flushing time, date, and location. Water for fire suppression is available from the water system at all times during the flushing program.

12. Will I notice anything different after you have flushed the water mains?

Your water may be discoloured. Water is sometimes discoloured after water main cleaning, but this should not last long. Do not use discoloured water for any purpose that require clean water, such as preparing food and beverages, medical and dental procedures, or laundry.

• After flushing is complete, remove the aerator (a fine mesh grid) on your tap. Then, turn on a cold water tap, preferably the laundry tap, and let the water run for a few minutes.
  • Do not choose a tap that has a water filter connected to it; otherwise, the sediment may clog your filter.
  • Do not use a hot water tap because it could draw sediment into your hot water tank. Once the water runs clear place back the aerator.
• Catch some water in a light coloured cup or container to see if it is clear. You can use your water if it is clear.
• If the water does not clear within 5 to 10 minutes, wait two hours and try again.

13. How do I get rid of the discoloured appearance?

Customers are advised to fully open their cold water faucets in their laundry tap, kitchen and/or bathroom to flush this water out of their service piping and plumbing lines. In most cases, the water should begin to run clear again within a minute. If it does not clear, please let us know by calling 604-541-2181 or email the Water Department.

14. What should I do if the water is still discoloured after two or three hours?

If this happens, call 604-541-2181 or email the Water Department.

15. What if someone drinks the water when it is discoloured?

Drinking discoloured water should not make you sick; however, it may not smell, taste, or look pleasant.

16. What else may I notice about my water after you have flushed the water mains?

Immediately after the cleaning you may notice that your water is cloudy or has a chlorine smell.

• Cloudy water - water is cloudy when air gets in it and makes tiny bubbles. These bubbles are harmless and will disappear if you let the water sit for a few minutes.

17. Why can't you flush the water mains at night?

It is safer for staff to work on the streets in daylight. Also, it is easier in the daylight to see when all the sediment has been flushed out and the water is running clear.

18. Where will you drain the water used in the flushing program?

We will discharge the water into the street catch basins. We will be using an environmentally friendly product (sodium thiosulphate) to remove the chlorine from the water before it is discharged.

19. Does discharged water affect the environment?

No. The City takes special precautions to ensure that the quantity and quality of the water flushed is safe for disposal. Before doing any field work, the City investigates water disposal routes and ensures that they are of adequate capacity to receive the water and are not sensitive to the flow. In most cases, the water is sent to stormwater collection system, or to a drainage ditch. During flushing, the field crew monitors disposal of the water, reduces its energy to prevent erosion, and adds dechlorination pucks to remove any chlorine.

20. Do other cities have similar water main flushing programs?

Many cities have some type of flushing program to clean their water mains. This is considered the best way to improve water quality and increase the reliability of the distribution system.

21. I lost water service. Why, and what do I do?

Though not intentional, this happens from time to time during the flushing program. During flushing, certain valves are closed to provide control over the direction of flow. It is likely that a valve closure resulted in loss of supply to your block. Contact the Engineering and Municipal Operations Department at 604-541-2181 or email the Water Department. The field crew will be sent to your block immediately to investigate and identify which valves may have been inadvertently left closed and will be reopened.

22. Why does flush-water (hydrant or at the tap) appear discoloured?

The colour is due to the presence of solids that are scoured from the surface of the pipes. These may include sand, sediment, iron (rust), and manganese, all of which are naturally occurring and common to virtually every water system. At the levels that cause mild discolouration, these solids are not harmful, although they may impart an undesirable taste to the water.

23. Is the water safe to drink?

Yes, the City has maintained compliance with all provincial and federal drinking water quality standards. The City performs frequent monitoring throughout the system to ensure the safety and aesthetic quality of your water.

24. How will you pay for the water main flushing program?

Funds from the water utility rates will pay for this program. Water rates will not be increased to pay for this maintenance program.

25. Will I be paying for the water used in flushing?

No, each residence and business is individually metered at the service connection to determine consumption. Your utility bill is based on your specific meter readings.

26. Is water main flushing a waste of water? Is this counterproductive to conservation?

No. We are using a unidirectional flushing technique, which uses less water than conventional flushing. The City strongly values, encourages and practices water conservation measures. In developing the flushing program, the City has considered the impact of water use and weighed it against the known benefits of flushing. While a fair amount of water is used and is necessary to create an effective scour, the City uses a flushing practice called (unidirectional) water main flushing that is specifically designed to reduce overall water usage.

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Water Quality / Public Health

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1. Is our water safe?

Yes. The City of White Rock is committed to providing safe and clean water to its water users. That is why we monitor and test the water and distribution system on a regular basis and address water and infrastructure matters. Having ownership of the water utility provides us with the opportunity to make decisions to further enhance the City’s water quality beyond what is mandated by Health Canada and Fraser Health.

Fraser Health, as the regulatory agency for drinking water in this jurisdiction, has no public health concerns in regards to the City of White Rock's water safety or quality.

Fraser Health has also created a resource with answers to frequently asked questions about the safety and quality of the City's water. You can find the above information at Fraser Health and navigate to City of White Rock Drinking Water. Fraser Health will continue to monitor the quality of drinking water in the City as per the health authority's legislated mandate and established regulations.

2. How will you guarantee a safe supply of water so we don’t have a boil water advisory again?

The Total Water Quality Management Plan (TWQMP) will provide secondary disinfection to the water supply and upgrade critical system infrastructure to ensure consistent and reliable service of high-quality drinking water. The TWQMP was required based on the recommendations of the 2010 Boil Water Notice Report when the water utility was under private ownership.

As a result of the report, the Fraser Health Authority had directed the previous owners of the water utility that a secondary disinfectant had to be in place by June 2016. On October 30, 2015, the City of White Rock acquired the water utility from a private company. In 2016, the City of White Rock asked the Fraser Health Authority for an extension in regards to introducing a secondary disinfection so that the City could conduct some testing prior to full implementation of a secondary disinfection. The Fraser Health Authority approved this and the City had until February 1, 2017, to implement a secondary disinfection treatment.

As part of the TWQMP, upgrades to improve the overall system safety and reliability are being addressed.

3. Does the City perform water quality tests?

Yes. The City conducts ongoing water quality tests. The City performs weekly tests for bacteria and quarterly quality testing for metals, all data is available on our Water Quality page.

4. Does the City have adequate water supply in case of an emergency such as the Five Corners fire?

Yes. The Oxford and Merklin reservoirs are now constructed and operational, therefore along with the existing Roper reservoir, have increased the water storage capacity by 33%.

In October of 2015, when the City purchased the water utility, the total available water storage was 4.50 million litres. During the fire, on May 15, 2016, the total available water to fight the fire was 4.65 million litres, 150,000 litres more than when the City purchased the utility. Since that time, the City has constructed a new water reservoir that did not previously exist and completed a second in April of 2017. This means the City’s total available storage is now 6.05 million litres, which is 1.55 million litres more than when the City purchased the utility.

The 6.05 million litres is the future storage amount recommended by the consultant to service a population of 26,650 for the year 2031. According to the 2016 census, White Rock’s current population is at 19,952.