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Commissioner Bird wished to make it clear that, even though it would be politically unpopular, if the Environmental Health Director says the water is actually unfit, he will vote to put the water in whether the majority want it or not. Also, Director Pinto is the business manager of a multi- million dollar operation, and if he feels it makes economic sense to put in these improvements, he wants him to inform the Board of this so we can make the decision to move ahead. Commissioner Bird wanted to be sure that both Director Pinto and Mr. Galanis feel free to tell the Board the actual situation. Commissioner Wheeler echoed Commissioner Bird's comments and assured those present that he would approve action to put the water in if it were an unsafe situation and a health hazard. Discussion ensued about the Health Department continuing to issue permits for septic tanks and wells, and Commissioner Bowman believed that if the only criteria for allowing septic tanks and wells is the distance between them, a lot of other important factors are being overlooked. Director Galanis agreed, and noted that the point he tried to make today is that he believes time is running out; however, state criteria for issuance of the permits is the requirement that there be 75' between the septic tank and the well, and he works for the state. In regard to the quality of the water, state law really doesn't care what you drink out of your private well, but from a public health standpoint, he cares. Discussion ensued as to whether the county can pass an ordinance setting higher standards for a potable well. Attorney Vitunac advised that we can for public water supplies, but Mr. Galanis believed the Board is talking about minimum standards on private water supplies. Attorney Vitunac stated that he will have to check and see if the state has pre-empted that field; other than that, the county has the power to adopt technical regulation of that type. JUL 51998 48 Boor 73 PA;E 188