Increased chemicals in Oberlin water

Oberlin residents can expect something extra attached to their next water bill: a notice about potentially harmful compound of chemicals in their drinking water.

The compound is known as trihalomethanes , and according to City Manager Rob Hillard, they appear naturally in the system and they can be enhanced by other chemicals used to treat the water.

The notice informs customers they don’t need to seek alternate water sources, but they should contact a doctor if they have specific health concerns.

“The levels detected do not pose an immediate risk to your health,” the notice reads. “However, some people who drink water containing trihalomethanes in excess of the maximum contaminant level over many years, may experience problems with their liver, kidneys or central nervous systems, and may have an increased risk of getting cancer.”

According to Hillard, the compound was found during a routine protocol.

“Basically, 80 parts per billion is the regulated level,” he said. “Over a couple of quarters, it was basically at 81 parts per billion.”

The city is working to remedy the increased levels, Hillard said.

“A lot of it is evaluating the way we test the water and also looking at our system design,” he said. “This is a process that we go through, so we are looking at alternatives. But we’re confident we can get it below the level.”

Due to the chemistry involved in the issue, Hillard said he is hesitant to put a timeline on the fix.

“At the same point, we’re looking at it very seriously because it’s public drinking water,” he said. “But we’re confident that those levels will be tested below (the regulated level) coming up.”

The notice advises customers to contact Jerry Hade at 440-775-7290 for additional information.