GALT, CA (MPG) - The City of Galt has released its 2024 Consumer Confidence Report, offering residents a detailed overview of the quality, treatment and safety of the city’s drinking water.

The report, prepared in May, covers data collected throughout the 2024 calendar year and aims to inform the community about where its drinking water comes from, how it’s treated and what’s in it.

The city operates four active wells and one standby well, all drawing from the Cosumnes Subbasin. These wells pump water into a closed-loop distribution system that allows any of them to contribute as needed. In 2024, the system delivered more than 1.4 billion gallons of water to residents.

Galt treats its groundwater to remove naturally-occurring iron, manganese and arsenic, all of which can affect taste and odor. Low levels of chlorine are also added to disinfect the water. The city conducts extensive testing to meet standards set by the State Water Resources Control Board and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA), which regulate the levels of contaminants allowed in public water systems.

While Galt’s water meets state and federal quality standards, the report acknowledges the presence of low levels of arsenic, a mineral that occurs naturally but is linked to cancer and other health issues at high concentrations. The city’s levels remain within the Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) set by regulatory agencies. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency continues to study the long-term effects of low arsenic exposure.

The report also highlights that lead, which can leach from household plumbing materials, is another potential concern. Although Galt’s system itself is not a lead source, residents are advised to flush taps for 30 seconds to two minutes before using for drinking or cooking, especially after water has been sitting for several hours. Additional guidance and testing resources are available through the Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1-800-426-4791 or online at epa.gov/safewater/lead.

The report explains that all drinking water, including bottled water, could contain small amounts of contaminants; however, this does not necessarily indicate a health risk. These contaminants can originate from natural sources or human activity and include microbial organisms, inorganic materials such as metals and salts, pesticides, organic chemicals and even radioactive substances.

Vulnerable populations, such as those with compromised immune systems, the elderly, infants and people undergoing certain medical treatments, might be more at risk from some contaminants and are encouraged to consult healthcare providers for advice.

The City of Galt encourages residents to participate in water system decisions by attending City Council meetings at 6 p.m. the first and third Tuesdays of each month at 380 Civic Drive. Meetings are livestreamed at cityofgalt.org.

The city remains committed to providing safe, clean and reliable drinking water by making continuous improvements to its water systems, according to staff. Residents with questions or concerns can contact the Public Works Utilities Division at 209-366-7260. To view the full report, visit cityofgalt.org/PublicWorks.