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dumped into toilets, from his point of view as a Director of Pharmacy at the <br />University of California, he is very alarmed at the amount of residue drugs carried <br />in the recycled water being found in many other areas. His concern is also <br />expressed as a member of the board of trustees of the California Pharmacists <br />Association where many pharmacists are encouraging their patients not to dump <br />unused drugs into the toilet because of the potential of having residue chemicals <br />available and then exposed to children in playgrounds being watered by recycled <br />water. He raised the concern in the amount of contact dermatitis, entopic <br />dermatitis, asthma and other allergic symptoms among young children that may <br />or may not be related to the chemicals. He gave an example of a change in <br />project plans in Los Angeles and stated that the community of Redwood City <br />deserves the same. <br />Bob Parkhurst referred to a letter from Dr. David L. Sedlak and transmitted it to <br />Council. Mr. Parkhurst stated that he would not hesitate to use recycled water for <br />all landscapes where children are not exposed. He further stated that he does not <br />feel confident about the playgrounds where children play. The response from Dr. <br />Sedlak was that it is a very emotional issue, is difficult to discuss on a deep <br />scientific level because there is not much data on how children might be exposed <br />on playgrounds. <br />Carl Theobald stated that he and his wife are firmly opposed to the use of <br />recycled water anywhere children are likely to be present and that they are truly <br />fearful of potential harm to their children should such a course of action be <br />pursued. After review of both sides of the argument, he concluded that there is no <br />convincing evidence to demonstrate that recycled water is safe for use in areas <br />where children may be exposed; that alternative solutions have not been entirely <br />researched; and that his opinion is not unique but representative of a large but <br />silent contingent population of many overworked professionals that simply do not <br />have time to be politically active and instead trust those in positions of power to <br />make the right decisions on behalf of the community. He implored Council to take <br />a firm stand, in writing, that recycled water not be used anywhere children are <br />likely to be present. He asked that the task force be empowered and have <br />balanced representation with voices from Redwood Shores and the Safewater <br />Coalition. <br />David Valkanaar, speaking as Vice President of the Redwood Shores Owners <br />Association, stated his credentials and that he understands the importance of <br />water and the consequence of shortages while acknowledging the Council's <br />concern that there be enough water available for both current and future residents <br />and businesses. He spoke of the flawed and unfairly biased processes used in <br />considering the recycled water issue at the July 28 Council meeting, citing various <br />points. He stated that he supports the overall program to utilize recycled water in <br />every reasonable way and agrees with the desire to continue to move forward but <br />urged Council to not force it on the citizens that do not want it on the parks and <br />playgrounds where their children play. On a personal basis, he stated that he <br />REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 11, 2003 <br />MINUTES PAGE 7 <br />