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“Between the damage to the well pump and safety and security concerns with the building that houses the well pump, it was determined that it was not financially feasible to: A. Repair it. B. Keep it secured and keep it protected from future damage,” said the administrator’s public information officer Patrick Alexander.
The water well, which was available to Passaic residents for a fee ($50 per resident and $25 per senior), was closed during Christmas week, Alexander said.
In a statement, DeNova said the determination to close the well for good was made after consulting with the Passaic County departments of Buildings and Grounds, Parks and Recreation and Health.
“To compensate residents who purchased twelve month passes, six month prorated refunds will be made available to residents holding well water use permit cards.
Although the water has passed all of the quality tests conducted by the Passaic Valley Water Commission, it was determined that, because of issues related to the structure housing, the well pump, and other operational concerns, it was not financially practical to make what we considered to be necessary upgrades to the well facility.”
Alexander said the well's building in the past has been broken into.
Cardholders can receive a refund by completing a form and turning in the permit card at the Preakness Valley Golf Course Club House. Refund checks will be mailed within 60 days after completion of the refund form.
It was not immediately clear how many people paid to use the well.
Questions can be directed to the Preakness Valley Golf Course by calling 973-881-4921.
“On behalf of the Passaic County Board of Chosen Freeholders, I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause our residents,” DeNovo said.
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