Water Department Updates - NOV 15, 2024 - County Briefing

Water Department Update: Key Developments & What It Means for Asheville Residents

The County Briefing held on November 15, 2024, focused heavily on the ongoing water quality challenges impacting Asheville and surrounding areas. The primary concern remains elevated turbidity (cloudiness) in the North Fork Reservoir, which has led to a continued boil water notice for all City of Asheville customers. This recap summarizes the key discussions, decisions, and next steps outlined during the meeting, providing clarity for residents and businesses.

A significant development emerged from the meeting: the Water Department is initiating a sampling process that could lead to lifting the boil water notice. This decision, made in collaboration with the EPA and DEQ (the state environmental agency), marks a crucial step towards restoring normal water service. Over the weekend and Monday, 120 water samples will be collected to assess bacterial levels. Results are expected Tuesday afternoon/evening, and a decision on whether to lift the boil water notice will be made at that time. Officials noted that lifting the notice would allow residents to resume normal domestic water use and enable businesses to operate without restrictions.

Throughout the meeting, discussions centered on the ongoing efforts to address the turbidity issues at North Fork Reservoir. While levels remain elevated, officials reported that the department has been able to consistently supply treated water into the system for nearly a week, effectively eliminating the need to use raw (untreated) water. The mechanism used for raw water distribution will be taken offline tonight, further minimizing potential risks. Coordination with the Army Corps of Engineers, FEMA, and USGS continues for debris removal from the reservoir – a slow but necessary process. Construction on the Army Corps of Engineers pre-treatment system remains “exactly on schedule,” with materials and equipment arriving daily, expected to be operational in late November/early December.

While no direct public comments were recorded during the meeting, officials acknowledged the ongoing concerns of residents and businesses. They emphasized that while progress is being made, a low chance remains that turbidity could increase due to unforeseen events. The department will continue to closely monitor the system and provide updates as needed.

What Happens Next & What You Need to Know:

• Sampling Process (Weekend - Monday): The Water Department is collecting water samples to assess bacterial levels.
• Decision on Boil Water Notice (Tuesday Afternoon/Evening): Results will be analyzed, and a decision regarding the boil water notice is expected.
• Continued Reservoir Treatment: Efforts to reduce turbidity within the reservoir will continue as long as resources allow.
• Corps of Engineers System Completion: Construction on the pre-treatment system is progressing as planned.

Important Reminder for Residents: The boil water notice remains in effect. Until further notice, all Asheville residents must continue to boil any water intended for consumption (drinking, cooking, brushing teeth) for at least one minute before use. Remember to run your cold water faucet for 30 seconds to two minutes before gathering water to boil, ensuring you are getting water from within your pipes. Please stay informed by checking the City of Asheville website and Water Department announcements for the latest updates and instructions.

This meeting demonstrated a commitment to resolving the water quality issues, with a clear path forward towards potentially lifting the boil water notice. The community is encouraged to remain vigilant and informed as these efforts continue.