The following Statements are from Ridgeview News, with the one following being a statement from the Town of Grantsville. Along with the statement was a request from Mayor John Villines for the local press to issue corrections.
RIDGEVIEW NEWS STATEMENT
While I will release the Town’s statement, I will not release a correction because I do not believe it is called for. Images were released to Ridgeview News showing the results of high levels of Chlorine in the system which had been tested in the City of Grantsville. Reports of the scent of high Chlorine had been reported in homes in the Public Service Districts, all of which leads to the distinct possibility that the issue was as serious as reported.
The reading in the image below came from a Pleasant Hill PSD staff member, using their Meter to test the water in the Calhoun Commission Office in Grantsville. That same meter was later used to test water at the same location and time as the WV State Health Department, and both reads were within the same range. Proving the meter to be correct.
As often is the case, Ridgeview News and the Calhoun Chronicle are quite often accused of prejudiced reporting. The reporting of this incident is not prejudiced and has nothing to do with our personal opinions of the Town of Grantsville. Mayor Villines demanded accountability by the news; he has it. Both I and Gaylen Duskey, Chronicle Editor stand accountable to the citizens of Calhoun County, to bring awareness of issues that affect the families living therein. None of the issues were fabricated, they were reported by concerned and qualified agencies. – Shari Johnson, Publisher
TOWN OF GRANTSVILLE STATEMENT
The Town of Grantsville received reports on Monday regarding alleged high chlorine levels associated with Pleasant Hill Public Service District. While the County Commission was involved in the incorrect sampling process, notification and coordination with the Town of Grantsville did not occur at that time, and the Town was not present for the testing.
Out of an abundance of caution, however, and upon recommendation from the West Virginia Rural Water Association, the Town issued a no-drink order to address the issues raised.
Following review, it was determined that the initial water sampling resulting in a reading of high chlorine levels was taken incorrectly. The sampling error was later confirmed by the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources.
The Town checks and records chlorine levels emanating from its plant hourly, and in accordance with proper testing protocols. Its testing system is modernized and properly functioning. At no point has the chlorine levels read above the proper amounts required for clean water.
Out of an abundance of caution and in the interest of transparency, the Town has taken proactive steps, including flushing the water system, to ensure continued water quality. Additionally, the Town is working to bring in qualified third-party professionals to conduct independent testing to verify further the safety and integrity of the water supply.
At this time, there is no confirmed risk to public health. The Town of Grantsville remains committed to safeguarding residents and maintaining open communication.
We appreciate the public’s patience and cooperation as we continue to take responsible measures to protect our water system.
