SWANTON, OH (Toledo News Now) - Water quality is concerning residents in one local community, after letters were sent, warning that tap water does not meet EPA standards.
People in Swanton are frustrated because they want to be able to use the sink at home and drink the water that comes out of it.
"You get a nasty odor from the water. If you try to wash your dishes, it leaves a film on it," said one resident, who wishes to remain anonymous.
It actually has been bothering residents for years.
According to a letter from the village, the water violated the maximum level of trihalomethanes (TTHM) accepted. It goes on to say that residents do not need to switch to bottled water, but should contact a doctor if they are concerned about their health. The letter explains that the water does not pose an immediate threat, but over time it may increase the risk of kidney, liver or central nervous system problems for those who drink it; it may even increase the risk of cancer.
It is a risk some are not willing to take.
"I had to install a water filtering system on the water in my house," said the resident.
That is just one temporary solution to what some are calling a much bigger problem.
Village leaders assure they are taking action and plan to upgrade the water treatment plant to meet new, harsher guidelines from the EPA.
"They make them more strict. So that's the way they get communities to improve their water systems," explained village administrator Jon Gochenour.
The village plans to add an extra step to the filtration process with new equipment. Plans have already been submitted to the EPA, and the village is just waiting for approval before construction starts.
"We are moving ahead with it and plan to have a project under way in October," said Gochenour.
Mobile users, click on the"Video" button in the app to watch this story. Download our app here.
