Water company says that tap water in Jersey City, Secaucus, Hoboken, and Weehawken is safe, even if discolored

HUDSON COUNTY — Hoboken City Hall on Friday circulated this press release issued by United Water of Hackensack:

United Water is continuing to address taste and odor and discolored water concerns for customers in Jersey City, Hoboken, Secaucus and Weehawken. The water continues to meet all the standards for safe drinking water. It can still be used for drinking, cooking and bathing.

“The safety of residents’ drinking water is always our first concern,” said Nadine Leslie, president, environmental services. “We have tested and monitored the water closely and laboratory tests show that it meets all the standards for safe drinking water.”

Following a very dry summer, it is not uncommon to find reservoir levels lower than normal, she explained. “This is particularly true for the Boonton Reservoir that serves residents in the area.”

A lowered reservoir level has brought conditions that allow for algae growth that can cause a musty and earthy taste or odor and levels of manganese that can lead to discolored water.

Certain taste and odor episodes can also be caused by turnovers in the reservoir. This occurs when the surface water cools and sinks to the bottom, causing a disturbance to the lower water layers.

Leslie explained that since water supplies are part of natural systems that respond to changes in the environment, the issue has persisted longer than expected.

“We have taken several actions to try to alleviate the issue, including extensive flushing, repositioning of our intake, and further treatment modifications,” she said. “We understand that residents are inconvenienced by this issue. We remain committed to providing high-quality water and service and we will continue our efforts until the problem is eliminated.”

© 2000, Newspaper Media Group