Water Department Updates - OCT 23, 2024 - County Briefing

Water Department Update Meeting Recap: Addressing Concerns Following Hurricane Helene (October 23, 2024)

On October 23, 2024, the County held a meeting focused on providing updates to residents regarding the Ashville water system's recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene. The meeting aimed to ensure transparency and address concerns, particularly surrounding the ongoing boil water notice. While no formal votes were taken, a significant amount of information was shared regarding the current status and planned actions.

The primary focus of the meeting was a detailed explanation of the extensive water quality testing underway to ensure public safety. Following Hurricane Helene, the Water Department has significantly increased its testing frequency, now conducting daily tests at 35-40 stations (with a goal of reaching 40) across the distribution system. These tests cover total coliform, E. coli, and chlorine levels. Due to the cloudiness (turbidity) of water from North Fork, some samples are being sent to third-party labs for analysis. The department is also conducting daily testing for aluminum, iron, and manganese – elements that can affect water appearance and taste. A comprehensive lead testing program is underway at all elementary schools (excluding Hall Fletcher, which uses a well), with initial results already received and stage two testing scheduled for this week.

Importantly, officials clarified that the current boil water notice is not due to E. coli contamination – no such bacteria have been detected since the hurricane. The notice remains in effect due to sediment present in the water, which can impact its safety. Discussions also addressed Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs), explaining that these are aesthetic guidelines rather than strict enforcement limits. While slight exceedances of MCLs for iron and manganese have been observed, regulators (EPA & NC DEQ) are aware of the situation. Residents were informed that elevated levels of aluminum can cause cloudy water, iron can result in a rusty color and metallic taste, and manganese can lead to black/brown discoloration and a metallic taste.

Looking ahead, the Water Department has several key action items to restore normal operations and provide ongoing assurance. Daily testing will continue for a range of contaminants, including nitrate (now tested weekly), and Cryptosporidium testing is set to begin this week. Stage two lead testing at schools will be completed shortly, and the in-reservoir treatment process is scheduled to restart next week. A dedicated webpage (ashvillenc.gov/Helene) has been launched to provide real-time test results and FAQs, ensuring residents have access to the latest information. Individuals with medical concerns related to aluminum, iron, or manganese are advised to consult their doctors.

This meeting served as a vital update for residents, demonstrating the Water Department's commitment to transparency and diligent efforts to restore normal water operations. The ongoing testing, coupled with the readily available information on the dedicated webpage, aims to reassure citizens that their safety is a top priority. The department's proactive approach and regulatory oversight provide confidence as the community works towards full recovery from Hurricane Helene’s impact on the water system.