The smell of chlorine reportedly coming from water taps in Montgomery spurred a few dozen residents to attend a village meeting called to alleviate their concerns and explain why the smell persists.
Todd Hoppenstedt, director of Public Works in the village, along with the village engineer and members of the Water Department and Public Works staff called for the meeting. He said until a trustee pointed out a Facebook post about the issue, he was not aware of any problems with the smell of Montgomery’s water.
“We want everyone to understand, if you have concerns, please call us and tell us,” Hoppenstedt said.
He said if there is a concern a member of the Water Department would make an appointment to meet the resident at their home and test the water immediately.
“If we are not hearing from you, we are unaware of it,” he said.
Residents posted hundreds of comments online about a smell of chlorine being associated with the water in the village.
Resident Jason Bragg said the smell has been present in the water at his home, but not daily.
“Some days its stronger than others and some days its nonexistent. I let it run and the chlorine smell goes away,” he said.
Resident Julie Ceurvorsk is concerned about the smell.
“I’m just really interested in what is going on with the water,” she said.
She said the meeting answered some of her questions but still left her with some concerns.
Hoppenstedt said the smell persisting in the water in the Boulder Hill area is a surprise.
“We have had positive feedback from Boulder Hill and many say it has been an improvement,” he said.
Village Engineer Pete Wallers said communication on the issue is key.
“I think Todd and the Water Department did a great job of answering questions and obviously the take away was that if we didn’t answer the questions we wanted residents to reach out to the Water Department to get any additional information they may need.”
He said the important thing is that the water in Montgomery is fine to use.
“It is absolutely safe for bathing and every other use,” he said.
Water Department officials said any trace of smell should be alleviated in May, after the village completes all the water main flushing that is scheduled to take place in April.
Judy Pochel is a freelance reporter for The Beacon-News
