DNR testing results and more discussion on the agreement with Regional Utility Service Systems were the focus of yesterdays Washington County Board of Supervisors meeting.
3 representatives from the Department of Natural Resources were present to share results from the second round of ground water testing in the Richmond area. The four samples were taken on September 14th of this year.
The DNR tested the water for ammonia, bacteria and caffeine levels. The representatives shared that the high levels of caffeine would indicate human contamination, as caffeine isn’t found naturally in this area. The levels of ammonia and e.coli bacteria were also well above the government’s standards. The representatives added that the situation has gotten worse since the area was tested in 2001.
The continuation of a public hearing was held after the meeting and revolved around the possible increase to property taxes to cover the deal with R.U.S.S. if its decided the county will not go through with the controversial lagoon project.
The Board made the decision to add an amended version of the R.U.S.S. agreement as well as a project note to next weeks agenda, to be voted on at the next meeting.