Response to Grand Jury Report “PFAS and Public Awareness, a Closer Look at Orange County Drinking Water” City Council Meeting
August 18, 2026
Purpose of the Report
Identifies PFAS levels detected by Orange County drinking water agencies.
Evaluates how agencies have responded to recent PFAS regulatory requirements.
Reviews progress in planning and installing PFAS treatment facilities.
Assesses implementation of public education programs about PFAS in drinking water.
Provides findings and recommendations to strengthen PFAS reporting and expand public outreach.
PC 933.05 Response
For Each Finding:
Must state Agree or Disagree (wholly or partially)
If disagreeing, must specify which part and explain the reasons For Each Recommendation:
Must choose one of the following:
Implemented (include summary of actions taken)
Will be implemented (provide a timeline)
Requires further analysis (explain scope and provide timeline)
Grand Jury Findings
F2 PFAS is widespread, and contamination has been detected in Orange County groundwater sources. Community water systems are required to report PFAS monitoring results in their annual Consumer Confidence Reports.
F4 OCWD has taken a proactive leadership role in addressing PFAS in the Orange County Groundwater Basin, though PFAS treatment implementation varies across local cities and water districts.
F6 Orange County drinking water meets or exceeds state and federal standards and is safe for consumption without additional home filtration.
F8 There are limited online PFAS education and outreach programs among Orange County water retailers. Most retailers rely on OCWD for PFAS education and outreach. PFAS advisories were included in approximately 55% of the Orange County water retailers’ annual water quality reports in 2025.
The City Agrees with the Grand Jury Findings.
Grand Jury Recommendations
R2 By July 1, 2029, OCWD and its member agencies should monitor PFAS in groundwater and surface water sources and promptly implement PFAS treatment when response levels are exceeded.
R4 By July 1, 2029, all Orange County water retailers should consistently include a PFAS advisory, treatment facilities status, and compliance information in consumer confidence reports and on agency websites, using clear and understandable language for the public.
R5 By September 30, 2026, OCWD and all Orange County water retailers should enhance coordinated public education efforts to reassure their customers about drinking water safety.
The Recommendations of the Grand Jury have been implemented.
Staff Recommendations
Approve Transmittal letter with formal response
Authorize the Mayor to sign and submit the response to the Presiding Superior Court Judge Alternative Action:
Do not approve the formal response, and direct staff accordingly.
Questions?