The City of Victoria’s chlorine levels in the area of Holt Road have been in compliance with state standards since Wednesday evening, and an independent TCEQ test has now confirmed that the entire water system is fully compliant, but a final bacteriological test is required before City officials can lift the boil-water notice that was triggered due to a localized issue near Holt Road.
On Aug. 6, the TCEQ required the City to issue a citywide boil-water notice out of an abundance of caution due to a low chlorine residual level in the area of Holt Road.
After the dip in chlorine was detected, City crews immediately increased testing and flushing efforts. By Wednesday evening, chlorine levels in the affected area and throughout the system met or exceeded the TCEQ’s required levels. City crews continued testing throughout the night to ensure consistent results.
On Thursday afternoon, the TCEQ independently tested the chlorine levels and confirmed the City’s test results.
The next step in rescinding the boil-water notice is to confirm that the City’s water is free of bacteria. After receiving confirmation from the TCEQ, Public Works staff immediately began collecting water samples from the 19 citywide locations required by the TCEQ for testing.
The samples are expected to be collected and sent for testing this afternoon. Once this is done, the testing process will take at least 24 hours due to the time needed for the samples to incubate. The TCEQ will then review the test results to confirm whether the City can lift the boil-water notice.
The citywide boil-water notice remains in effect until the TCEQ gives the final authorization to rescind it. Residents, especially those who live in the area of Holt Road, should continue to boil water intended for drinking, cooking and other direct consumption.
Efforts to improve the water system continue
At the Aug. 5 City Council meeting, Mayor Duane Crocker provided an update on the efforts of the Council subcommittee that was appointed following the recent boil-water notice.
The subcommittee has been meeting weekly to thoroughly investigate the causes of the boil-water notice and develop recommendations to improve the integrity of the City’s water system.
Staff have already begun implementing some operational changes, such as a more robust testing schedule.
Once the subcommittee’s work is complete, the subcommittee will provide a comprehensive written report that will be made available to the public.
Stay informed
Updates about the boil-water notice will be shared on the City’s website; on social media; and through the City’s Alert Center, which sends updates to residents via call, email or text.
City of Victoria utility customers will receive Alert Center updates automatically through the contact information connected to their utility accounts. Non-customers can register for the service at www.victoriatx.gov/alertcenter.