(Media release from the City of Rome, GA):
The Rome City Water Department is committed to ensuring the highest standards of water quality and safety for all residents. Recent concerns raised by tenants at Ashland Park Homes regarding water quality have prompted thorough investigations and immediate actions to address any potential issues.
Upon receiving reports of illness and concerns regarding E. coli bacteria in the water supply, John Boyd, City of Rome Water and Sewer Division Director, swiftly initiated inquiries into the matter. Collaborating with concerned parties, including residents and staff at Ashland Park Homes, the Water Department deployed staff to conduct on-site assessments and address the reported concerns directly.
Curt Vann, Supervisor of Water Treatment, engaged with residents and staff at Ashland Park Homes within the hour of receiving the reports. Discussions revealed that while some tenants had expressed concerns, the majority were not initially alarmed. It was noted that one individual, who had recently been hospitalized with E. coli-related issues, was primarily responsible for raising the concerns.
During the on-site assessment, Curt Vann meticulously monitored chlorine levels in the water supply. A reading of 1.39 mg/L, well within acceptable limits, was recorded at the Ashland Park Homes office. Additionally, copies of this year’s Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) were distributed to provide transparent information about water quality to residents.
Further assessments were conducted at the sampling point at the Hwy 53 Tank, representing the broader water supply for the area. A chlorine reading of 0.92 mg/L was registered, demonstrating consistent adherence to quality standards. Additionally, a Bacteria Sample was collected and analyzed, with results confirming the absence of Coliform Bacteria. This test serves as a crucial indicator that disease-causing organisms are not present in the water supply.
E. coli, while a naturally occurring bacteria in the intestines, can pose health risks if present in untreated water or contaminated food. The Rome City Water Department assures residents that stringent water treatment protocols and continuous monitoring are in place to mitigate such risks and ensure the delivery of clean and safe drinking water.
Residents of Ashland Park Homes and the broader community can rest assured that the water supply meets all regulatory standards for quality and safety. The Rome City Water Department remains committed to safeguarding public health and will continue to prioritize the well-being of all residents.
For further inquiries or concerns regarding water quality, residents are encouraged to contact the Rome City Water Department directly at 706-236-4440
