Irondale water committee chair demands answers on lead and PFOS contamination

The Irondale City Council meeting on February 18, 2025, focused heavily on community concerns regarding water safety, particularly the presence of lead and PFOS levels. Council members discussed the urgency of providing clear answers to residents who have expressed anxiety over the quality of their drinking water.

During the meeting, a council member highlighted that two residents had reached out with serious concerns about the water supply. They questioned why the water committee chair had not disclosed whether lead was present in the water and why Mayor Stewart had repeatedly canceled scheduled water committee meetings. The residents expressed frustration, suggesting that the mayor's attendance at meetings concerning his salary increases was prioritized over public health issues.

The council member emphasized the need for transparency and accountability, urging that residents deserve answers about the safety of their water. Despite the pressing nature of these inquiries, there was a lack of definitive responses during the meeting, leading to further frustration among council members and constituents alike.

The discussion also touched on procedural issues regarding the scheduling of water committee meetings, with some council members expressing concern that the mayor's absence hindered progress on these critical matters. The chair of the water committee reiterated their commitment to obtaining answers for the residents but noted the challenges posed by the mayor's cancellations.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the community's demand for clarity on water safety issues and the need for the city council to address these concerns promptly. The council plans to continue seeking answers and will work to ensure that residents are informed about the safety of their drinking water.