DAVE GAROFALO -- Mayor’s Column

In the summer of 1999, the closure of the ocean waters at both Huntington

State Beach and Huntington City Beach was front-page news.

The water was closed due to elevated bacteria levels that exceeded

standards established by the county’s health department.

The city of Huntington Beach -- in cooperation with the state, the

county, the Sanitation District and a number of other agencies -- are

working diligently to find the source of the bacteria and to implement

lasting management practices to prevent a reoccurrence of the water

closures that took place last summer.

It is important to remember that the city’s beaches were never closed

last year. For those wanting to play volleyball, use miles of scenic bike

trails, share a great meal around a fire ring, enjoy a free concert at

Pier Plaza or stroll on the white sands, the beach has always remained

open. Our goal is to make sure the ocean water also remains open.

In recent weeks, there has been growing concern about the future of our

beautiful coast. Every resident of Southern California can make a

difference in preserving our quality of life -- that includes the waters

of the Pacific.

Because urban runoff is considered to be the most likely source of the

bacteria, please join me this summer in doing what you can to reduce,

reuse and recycle. For example, homeowners can make a significant

difference simply by collecting material and disposing of it properly,

rather than washing it into storm drains, where it eventually enters the

ocean.

Here are ways everyone can help to reduce runoff into the Pacific Ocean:

* buy household products, such as cleaners and furniture polish, labeled

“nontoxic,” using small quantities and purchasing only what you need;

* properly use and store all toxic products, including cleaners, solvents

and paints;

* use up these products or share extra with neighbors.

To get a brochure on storm-water and urban-runoff pollution, call

834-2884. For information on household hazardous waste disposal, call

834-6752.

* DAVE GAROFALO is mayor of Huntington Beach.