Press Release: 5/13/2026

MassDEP Fines Rutland Water Supplier for Drinking Water Violations

BOSTON — The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) has penalized Cool Sandy Beach Community Water System, Inc., a total of $7,920 for violations of state drinking water regulations. The violations occurred at its public water system, which serves approximately 70 people in the Town of Rutland. 

"Water suppliers are responsible for providing safe drinking water to customers," said Andrea Briggs, acting director of MassDEP’s Central Regional Office in Worcester."This enforcement ensures the Cool Sandy Beach Community Water System will operate and maintain its system in compliance with regulations and protect the health of the community it serves." 

The public water system includes a pump house that houses one groundwater well and a water treatment system. During a routine inspection of the water system, MassDEP observed that the pump house was not sealed to prevent animals from entering it. The company also violated drinking water regulations by failing to obtain permit approval for the emergency chlorination system and by failing to provide public notice in response to certain violations. 

Under the terms of MassDEP’s Consent Order, Cool Sandy Beach Community Water System has agreed to pay the $7,920 penalty and has conducted public notice as required. The company has also agreed to reconstruct or replace the pump house and to submit a permit application to bring its emergency chlorination system into compliance with regulations.