The Ironton water department has made a splash in Columbus, winning an award from the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency.

Monday, March 26, 2001

The Ironton water department has made a splash in Columbus, winning an award from the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency.

Water treatment plant superintendent Jennifer Donahue said the plant was one of five plants selected in the state for 2000.

The Ironton plant won the "Outstanding Public Water System" award. The Ohio EPA gives the recognition to water facilities that provide quality water service with "the highest degree of professionalism and performance."

This award is a contrast to the condition of the plant five years ago.

In March 1996, the city was placed under a "boil water advisory" because the water exceeded the turbidity standards.

In order to curb future problems dealing with turbidity, Donahue said the plant has installed lines and redesigned some of the plant systems to prevent the same situation that occurred in 1996 from reoccurring.

"I’ve always had a lot of faith in Jennifer," council chair Jim Tordiff said. "I hired her when I was mayor (1990-1995).

"I think she’s knowledgeable and she works well with her staff. I’m really happy for her. This award should make the citizens of Ironton feel good about the quality of their water."

Councilman Jesse Roberts said at Thursday’s council meeting, "I became involved with city council because of the water issue. I want to compliment the administration, council and the people for the accolades the water treatment plant has received."

Donahue said the award goes to everyone involved in the water system.

"I want to recognize all of those people – employees at the treatment plant, water distribution, and waterworks office – the award goes to everybody," she said.

The award will be officially presented May 11 in Columbus at the Ohio EPA central office.