Franklinton Public Works Superintendent Responds to Questions Regarding Water Quality

At the Monday, August 25, 2020 meeting of the Franklinton Board of Aldermen, Franklinton Public Works Superintendent Reginald McMasters responded to water quality issues publicized in the newspaper and in Facebook posts. McMasters vehemently denied that Franklinton has a water crisis or contaminated water. He characterized the reports as rumors, slander, and a disgrace that a charge would be made that the Town of Franklinton is providing contaminated water to schools, nursing homes, the hospital, restaurants, and residents of Franklinton. 

See the video for McMasters' remarks. Also, click "Read More" below the video for his response to the recent Administrative Action from the Louisiana Department of Health.

****Important Information About Your Drinking Water ****

Town of Franklinton

PWSID # LA1117002

The Town of Franklinton public water system, (PWS) ID LA1117002 recently received an Administrative action from the Louisiana Department of Health pertaining to the Town’s potable water system. This Administrative action by LDH does not indicate any negative qualities of the current potable water produce for resident’s consumption. It primarily focuses on administrative actions and administrative purchases that must be addressed by the Town of Franklinton.

This Administrative action also addresses a specific Administrative classification of the Town’s water system. Town management is currently working with engineering and environmental consultants to review the current potable water system classification and ensure that the correct classification of the Town’s water supply is being established and monitored as per potable water regulations. Again, this Administrative action by LDH does not indicate any negative qualities of the current potable water produce for resident’s consumption.

Public water systems are required to properly disinfect their water and maintain adequate disinfectant residuals in the distribution system. To accomplish this task, the Public water systems must always decide what type of disinfectant system works best based with the current water supply. Management is currently reviewing options to operate the potable water system as a “Free Chlorine” system or a “Chloramine” system to ensure proper disinfection. Both methods have operational issues, cost issues and Agency compliance issues that must be addressed by the Administration. Franklinton’s Administration is carefully reviewing all options to ensure the best overall water quality for residents based on cost, manpower and LDH compliance. The Town of Franklinton has naturally occurring ammonia in the ground water which may assist with compliance if a Chloramine system is selected for disinfection. There will also be a transition period when changing the primary disinfection agent to chloramines and residents may experience a brief period when there may be a noticeable change in the taste or smell of the water. This is a normal part of the process and water is safe to use.

Please be assured that safe drinking water standards are maintained and water quality is continuously monitored. The water system is always flushed minimize any adverse situation encountered. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this process, please contact the Town of Franklinton’s Public Works Department Director Reginald McMasters at (985) 839-3569.