July 28, 2023
Starkville Utilities’ Water Division earned a perfect score again on the latest drinking water supply inspection report issued by the Mississippi State Department of Health.
For the second year in a row, Starkville Utilities earned a maximum overall score of “5” and was credited for a long-range infrastructure investment program to ensure Starkville’s water supply system operates safely, reliably and sustainably for many years to come.
“State inspectors look at all dimensions of our operations to make sure we have the right people, processes and facilities in place,” said Edward Kemp, general manager of Starkville Utilities. “The report reinforces that we operate a first-class water utility system managed by licensed employees who always aim for excellence.”
Inspectors rated performance in three areas—technical, managerial and financial—and considered indicators such as operator performance, equipment condition, accounting systems, audit reports, and compliance with maintenance, testing and inspection requirements.
Continuous testing and training are part of the routine for Starkville Utilities employees, who processed and delivered more than 1.838 billion gallons of safe drinking water to customers last year. Every month, they send samples to MSDH to test for bacteria and other contaminants.
In June, Starkville Utilities posted the results of the latest Consumer Confidence Report indicating that the city’s drinking water meets or exceeds all federal and state requirements.
“These reports reflect our ongoing commitment to excellence in providing essential services that help our community grow and thrive,” Kemp said. “We encourage customers to contact us if they have questions or would like more information.”
Starkville Utilities is a public utility serving 14,000 residences, businesses and industries in Starkville, Mississippi as well as Mississippi State University. Its mission is to supply safe, reliable, and cost-effective electric and water service of superior quality and value that improves the lives of its customers.