In Elkins, Arkansas, Mayor Troy Reed has provided an update on the ongoing water safety situation following the detection of E. coli in a water sample. On June 3, the mayor announced via the city’s Facebook page that the first round of water samples tested negative for E. coli. This comes as a relief to residents who have been under a boil order since May 29, when the Arkansas Department of Health (ADH) issued the directive as a precautionary measure.
Current Status and Next Steps
The city has conducted a second round of water sampling, which has been sent to the Fayetteville Department of Health for further testing. Results from these tests are anticipated by Thursday, June 4, or Friday, June 5. Depending on these results, the boil order may be lifted later this week. Until then, residents are urged to continue boiling water for at least one minute before using it for drinking or food preparation. Ice made from unboiled water should be discarded, and only ice made from previously boiled water should be used.
Mayor Reed explained that the initial positive E. coli sample was collected from a non-standard source by an employee not typically involved in water testing. The site in question, a buried hydrant, was the only one out of seven tested locations to show contamination. Other nearby samples tested negative, and the City of Fayetteville, which supplies treated water to Elkins, has reported no issues with their water quality.
Community Impact and Response
The boil order remains in effect as a safety measure until the ADH confirms that the water is safe for consumption. Mayor Reed has expressed understanding of the inconvenience this situation poses to residents but emphasized the importance of adhering to state safety requirements. The Elkins Water Department has reiterated that the boil order will only be lifted once an adequate disinfectant level is established throughout the water distribution system and a bacteriological survey confirms the water’s safety.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed through official city communications as the situation develops. The mayor has assured the community that all necessary steps are being taken to resolve the issue promptly and safely.
Original reporting: 5NEWS / KFSM (Fort Smith) — read the source article.
