Mississippi News
EPA sends Jackson another notice over water deficiencies
EPA sends Jackson another notice over water deficiencies
On Monday, the Environmental Protection Agency sent Jackson a notice of non-compliance over water system deficiencies, the third time in the last two years the agency has done so.
The letter refers to a report the Mississippi State Department of Health sent to the city on Dec. 14, which found that an electrical panel that broke during a fire at the O.B. Curtis water treatment plant last April had still not been repaired.
The malfunction forced pumps at the plant to shut down and reduced water pressure for parts of Jackson, the EPA letter details.
A follow-up MSDH inspection in November found that the pumps were still out of service and the city had no target date for re-installing them. The MSDH report from December requires the city to fix the issue by April 14, 2022.
The EPA letter says the resulting loss of pressure in the distribution system allows for water outside of the pipes to seep in, creating “a suitable environment for bacteriological contamination and other disease-causing organisms, including E.coli.”
In a press release, the EPA added that it would send letters to elected officials advocating that the $79 million provided to Mississippi under the federal infrastructure bill be used on Jackson's water system.
The EPA's warning comes two months after Administrator Michael Regan's visit to Jackson to see the treatment plant in person and speak with concerned residents and officials. That very day, the city had to shutdown the conventional side of O.B. Curtis after using a bad batch of chemicals to treat the water, leading to a boil water notice and low pressure in south and west Jackson.
The agency previously sent letters of non-compliance in April 2021 and May 2020, which listed over a dozen violations of state health code, ranging from staffing issues, equipment monitoring, and treatment technique.
This week, the city is again attempting to restore pressure in south Jackson after a set of water line leaks and a membrane train failure at O.B. Curtis. City workers along with the Mississippi Rapid Response Coalition have distributed bottled water to affected residents at the intersection of Raymond and McDowell roads in front of Cash Saver. Impacted residents can find out about water distribution by calling the city at 601-624-0637.
READ MORE: Jackson water crisis again impacts schools
This article first appeared on Mississippi Today and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.
Mississippi News
Warmer temperatures ahead of overnight storms – Home – WCBI TV
SUMMARY: The weather in Columbus, Mississippi is warm and humid with storms expected tonight and into Friday morning. There is a chance of some strong storms with heavy rain, gusty winds, and possibly hail. Temperatures are expected to be in the upper 80s. Showers will continue into Saturday morning before clearing out for the weekend. The SPC has NE Mississippi under a level 1 and 2 risk for severe weather. Overall, expect warm and muggy conditions with scattered showers and storms throughout Friday. Saturday will start with showers but clear out in the evening, while Sunday will have pleasant conditions with clear skies and warm temperatures in the upper 80s.
The post Warmer temperatures ahead of overnight storms – Home – WCBI TV appeared first on www.wcbi.com
Mississippi News
Storm damage victims work to fix up their property
SUMMARY: Several residents in downtown Columbus, Mississippi, were impacted by severe storm damage, with trees falling on homes and property. Many residents, such as Len Summerville, Shannon Evans, and Emily Mclarty, shared their experiences of the destruction caused by last week's storms. They emphasized the importance of preparedness for future severe weather events. Some residents are still awaiting responses from their insurance companies to move forward with repairs. Overall, the community is coming together to support each other and navigate the aftermath of the disaster.
The post Storm damage victims work to fix up their property appeared first on www.wcbi.com
Mississippi News
Brooksville City Hall shuts down after clerks quit
SUMMARY: Brooksville Town Hall in Mississippi has been closed for a week due to the process of hiring new city officials. The mayor explained that the closure is necessary until the new hires are bonded and can handle money. Multiple city clerks have resigned, causing issues with citizens paying water bills. Despite new hires being bonded and told to report for work, the doors remain locked. The mayor clarified that he cannot control everything that happens at city hall. Residents can still pay water bills at a drop box, with late fees being waived. The mayor emphasized his commitment to upholding his oath to the town.
The post Brooksville City Hall shuts down after clerks quit appeared first on www.wcbi.com
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