Moore County officials to implement annual water testing in schools after Carthage contamination concerns

In a recent Moore County School Board meeting, significant concerns were raised regarding the quality of drinking water at Carthage Elementary School. Board member David, expressing frustration over the prolonged inaction, highlighted that while the central office provides bottled water for board members, students and staff at Carthage have been drinking what has been described as "brown water." This issue has persisted for over six years, with the principal of Carthage Elementary confirming that the water is discolored due to inadequate utility pipes.

David's remarks drew parallels to other well-known water crises, such as those in Flint, Michigan, and Camp Lejeune, emphasizing the need for immediate action. He criticized the school board for not testing the water, despite ongoing complaints and the installation of filters that have not resolved the underlying problem. He stated, "No one should have to put up with this," and announced a plan to take unilateral action to ensure the safety of the water supply.

In response to the ongoing concerns, David collaborated with state officials to initiate annual water testing across all Moore County public schools, with results to be published for transparency. Additionally, he revealed plans for thorough testing at Carthage Elementary, including checks for harmful substances like PFAS, commonly referred to as "forever chemicals."

The meeting also addressed the broader implications of the water quality issue, with David asserting that if the school board does not take responsibility, he will involve regulatory authorities to ensure the safety of students and staff. He expressed disappointment that such measures were necessary, stating, "It's really a shame because there's only a handful of issues that this district needs to address."

As the school board moves forward, the commitment to regular water testing aims to restore confidence in the safety of drinking water in schools, ensuring that all students have access to clean and safe water. The next steps will involve monitoring the results of the upcoming tests and addressing any further concerns that may arise.