Water District Offers Tips to Conserve Water and Help Lower Bills

Plainview, N.Y.—The Plainview Water District (PWD) would like to remind residents of the benefits of smart irrigation controllers and their use in the interest of water conservation. With the warm and dry summer weather quickly approaching, District-wide water pumpage numbers are expected to increase significantly due to the high use of irrigation systems. As part of its Preserve Plainview initiative, the District would like to provide residents with ways to save water around their homes and businesses.

“With the warmer weather, it is typical that the POB communities water usage grows significantly in comparison to other seasons,” said PWD Commissioner Marc Laykind. “The increased usage of irrigation systems throughout the summer months often results in over-consumption and higher third-quarter bills. It is important that we all make an effort to use best practices when it relates our water usage in order to protect our vital resource.”

Water consumption in the Plainview-Old Bethpage community nearly triples during the summer months, which is most notably attributed to irrigation systems. Water conservation will not only reduce unnecessary water waste and save money, but will also significantly decrease excess pumpage of the aquifer and demand to the District’s groundwater wells and treatment systems.

The Plainview Water District highly recommends the implementation of smart irrigation controllers to help increase conservation efforts locally. Smart controllers use a Wi-Fi connection to tap into local weather stations to automatically adjust watering schedules based on local weather conditions, ensuring that lawns and gardens only receive the precise amount of water they need in order to stay lush and green.

“Smart irrigation controllers are valuable investments for anyone looking to make the irrigation process more convenient and eco-friendly,” said PWD Commissioner Andrew Bader. “These systems are known to significantly reduce excess irrigation and water usage, while giving users healthier lawns. We highly encourage all customers to install this environmentally friendly technology.”

Smart irrigation controllers are effective at reducing water use because they use information such as local weather conditions, plant type and soil moisture levels to determine accurate landscaping water needs. The systems also adjust to weather conditions automatically, allowing lawns and gardens to thrive under optimal watering conditions without any user intervention. 

“As a community, it is our collective responsibility to take precautions to help preserve our most precious natural resource,” said PWD Commissioner Michael Chad. “Residents can participate in the simple act of conservation in many ways, such as installing a smart irrigation system or practicing better irrigation habits this summer. By doing so, we are not only preserving water and saving money, but are working to ensure that future generations of POB residents have access to this resource.”

Here are some simple ways to conserve water this summer:

·       Follow Nassau County’s Lawn Watering Ordinance

o   Watering is prohibited between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

o   Odd-numbered homes can only water on odd-numbered days.

o   Even and non-numbered homes can only water on even-numbered days.

·       Confirm your rain sensor is installed correctly and is functioning properly.

·       Mulch around flower beds to retain additional water.

·       Use a drip irrigation system to limit water lost through evaporation and improve the amount of water delivered to root systems.

·       Routinely check your irrigation clock and adjust time for seasonal temperatures and precipitation events.

·       Avoid watering on windy days.

For further information, or if you have any questions, please call the District at 516-931-6469, email info@plainviewwater.org or visit www.plainviewwater.org. Residents can also sign up to receive information by submitting their email address through the District’s homepage or following them on Facebook in order to stay up-to-date with District activities and initiatives.

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As seen in the Mid-Island Times 3.30.23

Dina Scott, CPA, Joins the NYGFOA Long Island Regional Council  and LIWC Business Practices Committee

Plainview, New York—The Plainview Water District is proud to announce that its Business Manager, Dina Scott, CPA, has recently been appointed to the New York State Government Finance Officers Association’s (NYGFOA) Long Island Regional Council as well as Co-Chair of the Long Island Water Conference (LIWC) Business Practice Committee. Dina was asked to play a role in both of these well-respected organizations due to her depth of governmental financial and accounting experience.

“The Plainview Water District team is extremely proud of Dina’s great achievements and know these organizations will both benefit immensely by tapping into her years of experience,” said PWD Commissioner Marc Laykind. “This recognition is very well deserved and speaks volumes to what she has been able to accomplish here on behalf of the Plainview-Old Bethpage community. Her vast knowledge will be a great asset to both the Long Island Water Conference and the New York State Government Finance Officers Association.”

The LIWC’s Business Practices Committee aims to serve as a resource to Long Island’s water providers as they navigate through new waves of state and federal grant funding. Mrs. Scott will serve as Co-Chair of the committee, providing guidance and expertise to local water providers with regards to grant management as well as compliance with many of the complex requirements included as part of grant administration. Her extensive expertise in this area and success in securing more than $34 million in grants for the Plainview Water District makes her an invaluable asset to the organization—especially as new government funding streams continue to become available. 

The New York Government Finance Officers’ Association is a not-for-profit professional membership organization and is composed of more than 1,110 public and private sector government finance professionals throughout New York State. The Long Island Regional Council is elected by the membership of the NYGFOA to serve their respective region and is made up of regional industry leaders in the sector. The goal of the Council is to ensure best practices are being used throughout Long Island, while providing support and assistance to local government financial professionals.

Ms. Scott has been a member of the NYGFOA for over 18 years. In 2022, she was part of the Advisory Board to the Long Island Regional Council. This year, she will serve on the Long Island Regional Council alongside the other leading financial governmental professionals across Long Island.

Dina Scott, CPA, joined the Plainview Water District in 2017 to assume the role as Business Manager. Ms. Scott uses her more than 18 years of experience in governmental accounting and auditing to oversee all budgetary and financial operations of the District and provides guidance on all related matters. Prior to joining the District, Dina was a supervisor for a well-respected accounting firm where she specialized in governmental audit and accounting services for local municipalities, including local water providers. She is a licensed Certified Public Accountant and holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting from St. Joseph’s College.

Customers of the Plainview Water District are also encouraged to sign up to receive District updates by visiting www.plainviewwater.org and also follow the Plainview Water District on Facebook at www.facebook.com/plainviewwater.

Testing must be facilitated annually by a certified backflow tester

Plainview, New York—With spring quickly approaching and residents getting started on projects in their yards and gardens, the Plainview Water District would like to remind homeowners to have their backflow prevention devices tested. Backflow prevention devices protect the public water supply from external contaminants such as lawn fertilizers. Testing these devices to ensure they are functioning properly before the high-demand irrigation season begins is vitally important to protect our water quality. 

“Annual testing and maintenance of backflow devices when home sprinkler systems come back online plays a huge role in ensuring high-quality water continues to flow to the homes and businesses we serve,” said PWD Commissioner Marc Laykind “Additionally, for your protection, the Plainview Water District encourages customers to inquire if a tester is both licensed and insured.”

Backflow prevention devices keep potentially contaminated water out of the public water supply in the event that pressure drops due to fire emergencies, water-main breaks or other unexpected instances of differential pressure. Testing is particularly important before irrigation systems are turned back on and is often the most economical time to have the test performed.

“The PWD has always stressed the importance of taking preventative measures within your home, as it is impossible to predict an emergency,” said PWD Commissioner Andrew Bader. “We ask that everyone take part in backflow testing as it is best to be prepared for any possible situation that may arise and can cause an adverse effect on our community’s water supply.”

To avoid potential fines, the District encourages residents to arrange for a New York State (NYS) Department of Health certified backflow tester to test your backflow prevention device to make sure it meets all mandated guidelines. The Plainview Water District has a list of New York State certified testers available on the Districts website for those residents who are unsure of who to contact. Any homeowner who has questions about having their device tested is encouraged to contact the District to learn more about the process.

“All residents and businesses throughout the POB community should always do what they can to ensure that our water supply remains safe for future generations and routine backflow device testing is one way to do just that,” said PWD Commissioner Michael Chad. “We ask our community to take part in this simple action that provides a factor of safety to the health and well-being of our community.”

If you have general inquiries about your water service, please call 516-931-6469 or send an email to info@plainviewwater.org. Customers of the Plainview Water District are also encouraged to sign up to receive District updates by visiting www.plainviewwater.org and also follow the Plainview Water District on Facebook at www.facebook.com/plainviewwater.

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District Staff is Equipped to Quickly Respond and Repair Any Breaks

Plainview, N.Y.—The Plainview Water District (PWD) would like to remind residents that water main breaks occur more often during the winter months, but are a completely normal experience for this time of year. Fortunately, the District has a highly trained staff that is capable of quickly addressing these potentially emergency situations to a degree where nearby residents may not even know a break has occurred.

“Water main breaks are an unfortunate reality in any area that experiences extreme cold, and Long Island certainly qualifies,” said PWD Commissioner Marc Laykind. “Thankfully, the Plainview Water District has an experienced staff who responds to breaks 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We are committed to solving any water-related issue that may arise, to quickly restore residents’ water service.”

As the case with all cold-weather climates, water main breaks are an unfortunate reality as they typically occur when there is movement in the soil surrounding the water pipes or a freeze/thawing condition. Water mains are installed below the frost line; however, when the soil shrinks or swells it places pressure on the pipes causing a break. Though the length of time to repair a leak varies from incident to incident depending on its severity and how quickly the leak can be located, PWD employees are trained to repair all types of breaks efficiently, quickly and safely.

“While the District has systems in place to learn about main breaks shortly after they may occur, there are situations where they are not easily detected,” said PWD Commissioner Andrew Bader. “Anytime someone suspects there may be a water main break, or any other water-related issue in the community, they should never hesitate to contact us and report the situation.”

When water service is restored, residents may notice air in their pipes and the water may be discolored. The discoloration is not harmful, but can stain laundry. If you experience discolored water, let the cold water run from a faucet or tub at the closest area to your incoming service line for a few minutes or until it clears.

“Water main breaks may cause residents to experience a drop in water pressure or discolored water,” said PWD Commission Michael Chad. “Repairing these breaks is one of the most important things our staff does at PWD. Which is why we have dedicated crews to react quickly to each break, to ensure potential interruptions to residents’ water service are as minimal as possible.”

The Plainview Water District asks for residents’ help in reporting potential main breaks. Residents that notice areas of wetness along the curb, bubbling of water in the roadway or unexplainable icy conditions are encouraged to contact the Plainview Water District immediately at 516-931-6469.

If you have questions about preparing your home’s water system for the winter or general inquiries about your water service, please call 516-931-6469 or send an email to info@plainviewwater.org. Customers of the Plainview Water District are also encouraged to sign up to receive updates by filling out the form at www.plainviewwater.org or by following the Plainview Water District on Facebook at www.facebook.com/plainviewwater.

As seen in the Mid-Island Times January 26, 2023

Plainview, New York—The Plainview Water District (PWD) recently held its swearing-in ceremony to celebrate Commissioner Michael Chad’s election to serve on the Board of Commissioners for the next three years. Commissioner Chad, a long-time resident of Plainview, brings to the Plainview Water District a strong background in finance. As he enters his first term, Commissioner Chad will work alongside current commissioners Marc Laykind and Andrew Bader as well as the PWD’s staff to continue providing quality water and service to the residents of the POB community.

“I am truly humbled and thankful to have the support of the Plainview-Old Bethpage residents as I join the Plainview Water Districts Board of Commissioners,” said Commissioner Chad. “It will be an honor to serve on this Board and begin to work together to continue the District’s role as an industry leader here on Long Island.”

Commissioner Chad has been an accountant in private practice since 1988, after earning his BA in Accounting at the City University of New York’s Brooklyn College. His business expertise encompasses all aspects of general accounting, with a focus on corporate and personal income taxes. Commissioner Chad has also been a proud resident of Plainview since 1994, where he raised his two children and currently lives with his wife.

“Michael Chad is a proud member of this community, and we are fortunate to have his years of expertise in finance as we continue our mission of providing POB residents with the highest quality water possible,” said PWD Chairman Marc Laykind. “His background will make him a very effective member of the District’s Board of Commissioners, and we look forward to the insights and guidance he’ll provide throughout his term.”

Since 2014, Commissioner Chad has held several prominent roles in the Plainview-Old Bethpage Chamber of Commerce, initially, serving as the organization’s Treasurer and then on its Board of Directors. Commissioner Chad is also a long-time member of the Plainview Jewish Center, where he also serves on the Board of Directors of the Men’s Club.

If you have general inquiries about your water service, please call 516-931-6469 or send an email to info@plainviewwater.org. Customers of the Plainview Water District are also encouraged to sign up to receive District updates by visiting www.plainviewwater.org and also follow the Plainview Water District on Facebook at www.facebook.com/plainviewwater.

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As seen in the Bethpage Newsgram January 19, 2023

As seen in the Nassau Observer January 14, 2023

Plainview, N.Y.—Winter is here and so are colder temperatures for the next couple of months. The Plainview Water District (PWD) would like to remind residents about the importance of keeping fire hydrants throughout the Plainview-Old Bethpage community clear of snow and other winter debris. Hydrants that remain free of snow and ice can save first responders precious time when responding to an emergency situation.

“The colder temperatures are here and serve as a great reminder to our residents and business owners of the importance of ensuring hydrants throughout the community are kept clear this winter,” said PWD Chairman Marc Laykind. “Keeping fire hydrants clear at all times allows the fire department to have uncompromised access in the case of an emergency.”

Residents are encouraged to “adopt” a nearby hydrant so there is a dedicated person responsible in keeping it clear during a snowstorm as well as reporting any potential issues. Clearing three feet of snow around the hydrant will allow firefighters to not only identify their locations with ease, but also provide uninterrupted access during a potential emergency.

“The POB community’s safety is our top priority, which is why we ask residents to not overlook the importance of this simple task,” said PWD Commissioner Andrew Bader. “We encourage residents to be aware of where the nearest fire hydrant to your home is and to do your part in helping keep our neighbors safe.”

The District is also asking its residents to consider providing assistance to any friends, family members, or neighbors who are not able to clear their own hydrants. Those who leave their homes for the winter season are asked to please notify a neighbor who can ensure a hydrant is still cleared in their absence.

“Emergencies can occur at any point, which is why this initiative is so important,” said PWD Commissioner Michael Chad. “We can never predict when a fire hydrant is going to be needed, so we must ensure they remain easily accessible for our fire department at all times. In the event of an emergency, every second counts and completing this simple task can save emergency responders precious moments.”

If you have questions about preparing your home’s water system for the winter or general inquiries about your water service, please call 516-931-6469 or send an email to info@plainviewwater.org. Customers of the Plainview Water District are also encouraged to sign up to receive updates by visiting www.plainviewwater.org. Follow the Plainview Water District on Facebook at www.facebook.com/plainviewwater.

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As seen in the Mid-Island Times January 5, 2023