Titusville residents demand city council halt sewage contamination from public fountains

In a recent Titusville Environmental Commission meeting, a pressing issue regarding public health and safety took center stage. The discussion, held on January 15, 2025, highlighted concerns over the city’s unwritten policy of keeping decorative fountains operational even when sewage contamination is present in nearby ponds.

Stan Johnson, a professional engineer and vocal advocate for environmental safety, passionately addressed the commission, urging them to reconsider this practice. He argued that allowing fountains to spray water contaminated with sewage poses a serious health risk, particularly to vulnerable populations such as women, children, and babies. Johnson described the situation as “nonsense and foolishness,” emphasizing that the city’s current approach effectively exposes residents to harmful pollutants.

The commission members listened intently as Johnson detailed specific locations where this issue is prevalent, including Men’s Park, Spaceview Park, and the Senior Center. He expressed frustration over the lack of action taken by city officials despite previous discussions on the matter. Johnson’s call for a formal policy to ensure fountains are turned off during sewage spills resonated with several commission members, who acknowledged the need for clearer guidelines.

Commissioner Thompson noted that the city had previously addressed Johnson's concerns but admitted that the responses were less than satisfactory. She reiterated the importance of establishing a written policy that mandates the shutdown of fountains in the event of sewage contamination. The discussion also touched on alternative solutions, such as using bubblers instead of fountains, which could be more effective in managing water quality without posing health risks.

As the meeting progressed, the commission agreed to further explore the implementation of a policy that would protect the community from potential health hazards associated with sewage spills. The urgency of the matter was clear, and the commission expressed a commitment to advocate for the health and safety of all Titusville residents.

The meeting concluded with a sense of determination among the commission members to address these environmental concerns proactively. As they prepare for future discussions, the hope remains that the city will take the necessary steps to safeguard its citizens from the dangers posed by contaminated water sources.