In 2023, Birch Bay Water and Sewer District (BBWSD) focused on infrastructure to support future population growth and protect water supply systems. This work included securing financing from the Washington State Department of Commerce Public Works Board (PWB) to upgrade critical systems. The district was awarded two construction loans totaling nearly $3 million to increase reliability and capacity improvements of the water supply. The first loan is funding the installation of a new water storage tank and upgrades to the water delivery system in Point Whitehorn. The second will fund the upgrade of aging water systems in Birch Point. The interest rate is 1.65 percent, saving money and keeping utility bill rates low.
BBWSD continues involvement in the adjudication of water rights in the Nooksack watershed to preserve future water supply of its customers.
With respect to environmental stewardship, BBWSD continues safe, responsible operations for the treatment of wastewater and delivery of drinking water. The district also installed solar panels on its administration building this year.
On January 24, the Washington State Auditor’s Office notified BBWSD that it received a clean accountability and financial statements audit – its 12th consecutive.
On April 21, the Washington State Department of Ecology notified BBWSD that it received a 2022 Wastewater Treatment Plant Outstanding Performance Award. This is the 21st award BBWSD has received since 1999.
In June, work began to replace a water main on Shintaffer Road, including the installation of two fire hydrants and the improvement of the impacted road surface. The project was completed in September.
Erin Beebe Carampot is an accounts receivable clerk at BBWSD.
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