Water Emergency Notification From The City Of Gloucester

Posted by: cpantano on 08/30/2009 13:53:18
Updated by: cpantano on 08/30/2009 13:53:18
Expires: 09/02/2009 00:00:00
WATER UPDATE: SUNDAY, AUGUST 30, 2009

INFORMATION RELEASE – AUGUST 30, 2009

Information Release – August 30, 2009

Gloucester, MA – Representatives of the City of Gloucester, Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), United Water (the city’s contract operator for the city’s water treatment plants), experts from Camp Dresser McKee, Inc. (qualified consultants with expertise in water systems) along with local and state elected officials will be meeting on Monday, August 30, 2009 in order to assess the current water emergency, and determine the appropriate course of action as we move forward.

According to the city’s Public Information Officer, Deputy Chief Miles Schlichte, the agreed upon course of action to date is not having the desired result of zero coliform counts. This plan has consisted primarily of aggressive flushing and boosting chlorination of the water distribution system.

Corrective actions have focused on maintaining chlorine levels sufficient to remove the presence of total coliform without over chlorinating the system.  In addition, maintaining the city’s water needs for fire protection and sanitation purposes has added to the difficulty in moving through this episode more quickly.

“We will move as rapidly as we can but we will only move as fast as what is determined to be in the best interest of public health and safety,” said Mayor Carolyn Kirk.  “I know that this has been very difficult on the residents and businesses of Gloucester, and appreciate the continued patience on the part of the residents and the business community while we work to resolve this complex problem.”

The outdoor water ban was lifted on Saturday, August 29 because the city achieved its goal of filling the reserve capacity at Bond Hill with clean water.

The boil water order is still in effect while we attempt to resolve this matter.

The city will continue to provide twice daily updates to the community for the duration of this event.

For more information, please contact:

Public Information Officer

Deputy Chief Miles Schlichte