TRUMBULL COUNTY Water woes improve, officials say

People with stained items can get help from the water treatment plant.
By ERIC GROSSO
VINDICATOR CORRESPONDENT
NEWTON FALLS -- Residents plagued by abnormal drinking water over the past few weeks have an answer for the odd color.
A chemical analysis last week shows rising levels of iron and manganese in river water used in the water treatment plant are causing the different shades of brown, officials said.
More important to consumers, however, is that the water is safe to drink.
"The safety of the water has never, ever been in doubt. Except for the color, it's OK to drink," said city Manager David Watson.
When complaints began
Starting in the first week of July, residents complained about varying colors of water coming from their faucets.
The water color had nothing to do with the recent water treatment plant upgrades, official said, but rather the rising amounts of iron and manganese because of the summer temperature change.
Officials said they started to slowly change the chemicals used to treat the water about a week ago.
"This is the cleanest and clearest we've seen the water since the problem started. It should start to get clearer as time goes on," Watson said.
Urged to call
Watson also urged water consumers to call if they are having any problems.
The more people who call and give information, the quicker the problem can be solved. Residents can call the water treatment plant at (330) 872-1808 or Watson at (330) 872-0806.
Customers who have had their sinks, towels or clothes stained by the colored water are urged to call or to visit the water treatment plant. There they will be given a chemical detergent, along with instructions, that will remove the stains.