Austin Utilities is releasing its annual water quality report this month.

It is mandated by the state, and details the organic, inorganic and radiological content of the water in Austin.

General Manager Jerry McCarthy said there is nothing outstanding in this year's report.

"We have very good water, and there are no issues whatsoever," he said.

It must be sent to all people that drink the water in Austin, so the utilities company is sending out the brochures in the Mower County Shopper.

At the utilities board meeting Tuesday, the board reviewed the possibility of working with WEBCO Security Inc. to offer a number of services to customers.

Possible services include alarms for security, fire, carbon monoxide and water levels.

If they decide to coordinate with WEBCO, customers would be able to sign up for the services and have the cost added to their bill. However, the board has not decided yet whether to enter into an agreement or not.

"We want to be really careful who we partner with," McCarthy said.

Also at the meeting, the board discussed the ramifications of the Prairie Island Bill recently passed by the state legislature.

In the bill is a requirement that utilities companies not disconnect services for nonpayment during excessive heat warning days.

McCarthy said that policy is common in the southern United States for the safety of citizens, but it is a new law in Minnesota.

He said the utilities company is not yet aware of the particulars such as what qualifies as excessive heat.

Matt Merritt can be reached at 434-2214 or by e-mail at :mailto:matt.merritt@austindailyherald.com